FAQ

How much does membership cost?

All fees are on an income-based sliding scale. To learn more, see our Membership page. 

What does ‘draft’ mean as a way to pay for a membership? 

A draft is when you have your monthly payment debited on the first of the month. You can use your checking account, credit card, or debit card as a method of payment.

Is there a charge if I cancel my membership?

No, we do not charge you a fee to cancel your membership. We do not have “annual contracts” – you can cancel your membership at any time.

What's the policy on bringing a guest? 

As a membership benefit, we offer three guest passes per membership, per calendar year.

My college age child is home for two weeks and wants to use the Y. What do I do? 

We allow college students to put their membership on hold multiple times throughout the year. Another option is to upgrade your membership to a Single Adult Family (if your child is 22 years of age or younger) or Family membership for a period of time. 

Can my child’s grandparent/caregiver/nanny bring them to their Y programs? 

Yes. Caregivers are able to accompany children to swim lessons and other Y programs.

Can I use other YMCAs? 

As a member of the  YMCA of Southern Maine you have access to any of our three branches at no extra cost. If you’re traveling, you may be able to access other YMCAs through Y-USA's Nationwide program. Due to the pandemic, not all YMCAs are participating at this time.

Do I need to register for classes (like yoga or boot camp)? 

Members can drop in to classes at any time, provided the class does not have a required registration. Please see our In Person class schedule for more information.

Can I rent the pool for a splash party (or just rent a room)?

Yes. Choose a Splash party (all ages) or a Play party (ages 11 and under). Each two hour party includes one hour in the pool or play area, and one hour in our multipurpose room (great for cake, presents and games!).

How do I sign my kids up for swim lessons? 

Swim lessons are on hold currently while we wait for COVID cases to reduce.  To learn more, visit our Swim Lesson page.

Do you have a Jacuzzi? 

No.

Do you have a sauna? 

Yes. We have dry saunas located at our Greater Portland and Northern York County Branches.

Do you have a squash or racquetball court? 

Yes, there are squash and racquetball courts at the Portland Branch.

Do I need to register for the classes, or are they drop-in? 

You are welcome to drop-in on most of our in person and online group exercise classes. Those requiring registration, such as swim lessons or session-based skill building classes, are noted on the schedules.

What do you have that's good for a beginner? 

We have many classes for all levels. Our membership and wellness staff would love to help you find the class that is right for you.

Do I need to wear a swim cap in the pool? 

No. We do ask you to tie back your hair if it is shoulder length or longer. All members must shower before getting in the pool. If you plan on going under water, please also wet your hair during your shower.

Should I call ahead before I come in? 

We try to minimize closures to the best of our ability so that you won’t have to call before you come in. However, you are welcome to do so if you would like. You can also sign up for our text alerts to stay up to date on the latest Y news.

When is the pool least busy/most busy? 

For lap swimming, our busiest times are early in the morning and after work. Late morning and late evening are quieter.

What are the requirements for kids in the pool who are not yet potty-trained? 

Children need to wear two tight-fitting layers, including a swim diaper and rubber pants. A bathing suit does not qualify as a tight fitting layer. This is very important, an accident in the pool may result in it closing for 24 hours. 

Can my child use the pool without me being present? 

Please refer to our Swim Test and Youth Pool Access information sheet. 

Can my child use the Y on their own?

Areas of the Y may be available to your child, depending on their age and other factors. Please refer to our Youth Pool Access and Youth Facility Access charts.

What is Prime Time? 

Prime Time is our While-You-Are-Here child watch program. Designed to ensure families can enjoy the YMCA  in a multitude of ways, Prime Time is available to members with a Family or Single Adult Family Membership.

Prime Time is available at our 3 branches.

Casco Bay:
Monday – Saturday 8:30am -11:30am
Monday – Friday 4:00pm - 7:00pm

Northern York County:
Monday – Friday 8:30am - 11:30am
Monday – Thursday 4:00pm - 7:00pm

Greater Portland:
Monday – Thursday 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Saturdays 8:30am - 11:30am

We'll work to extend hours as we are able to hire staff and are actively seeking team members.

Can I stay with my child at first to make sure he/she is comfortable? 

Yes, of course! Our staff will be happy to work with you during any transitions.