For the best of fun and education for your kids, take a spin on The Learning Wheel, a toy store that specializes in informative play. Owned and operated by two lifelong teachers, the store takes everyone back to the classroom with talking globes, frog growing kits, and magic microscopes. The Learning Wheel is full of resources for all age groups and promises to entertain kids and adults alike!

www.thelearningwheel.com

1514 Avenue Z, Brooklyn 11235

After 45 days and five serious squalls that rivaled “The Perfect Storm,” sailor Chris Katehis arrived in Greece by way of Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn. Katehis, who was born in Greece, made it just in time for the 2004 Olympics. CiNYC host Shirley got a chance to play skipper alongside this seasoned sailor, who is now safely moored back at the Miramar Yacht Club.

Miramar Yacht Club, 3050 Emmons Avenue

(718) 646-9436

Cast a line off the Brooklyn VI and you could reel in a prize-winning tuna, mackerel, or even a bluefish. Captain Rob has caught them all at one point, and so have his patrons. This deep-sea fishing vessel is 110 feet long, 22 feet wide and uses 3 diesel engines to power its way through the waters of New York and New Jersey. Full Day trips run from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, or be daring and try a night trip from 7:00 pm to 3:00 am. The VI has been sailing strong since 1948, and docks at Pier 6 in Sheepshead Bay.

Pier 6, Emmons Avenue at 26th Street, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn
(718) 743-8464

EXTRA: What To Pack For A Fishing Trip

Ahoy, matey! A deep-sea fishing trip is fun, but make sure you pack right to avoid a deep-sea disaster. You can thank us later.

Sunscreen. There aren’t any tall buildings blocking the sun out on the water, New York! Sunburn is the last thing you want to disembark with, so sunscreen is a necessity.

Sunglasses. It’s bright out there on the high seas, and squinting for 8 hours straight will surely make your face hurt.

Rags. Fish guts. Need we say more?

Extra Layers and Gloves. It may be a comfortable temp on the shore, but it’s always cooler and windier on the water. Bring a hoodie or jacket, and gloves if you’re sailing during the fall or spring.

Rain Gear. Seriously, you never know. We recommend an oversize poncho that will cover you head to toe, because you can’t really cast while holding an umbrella.

Camera or Camcorder. Your friends might be skeptical when you say you caught a fish “this big!” Documenting every second will give you proof, and bragging rights.

A Beat-Up Bag. With all the sea spray, fish slime and bait blood, there’s no place for a designer bag on the water. Hold all your gear in something you wouldn’t mind getting a bit messy.

Binoculars or Spyglass. You never know what marine life you’ll spot on the ocean. At the very least, it’ll make you feel like a real pirate.