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Learn to Sail in Washington DC

Location(s): Alexandria, VA

Learn to Sail

There is nothing like taking the helm and sailing your own sail boat. This introductory course will teach you all the basics you need to know to get you on your way to being your own captain.
  • Founded in 1975, this sailing school is the largest full time Sailing School in the Washington DC area
  • 10 hour course taught on board the 19 ft. Flying Scot with a 3:1 student to instructor ratio (the lowest in the Washington or Annapolis areas)
  • Topics include: rigging, the points of sail, navigational markers, right-of-way rules, man overboard procedures and plenty of mooring and docking drills
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Description:
A fun 10-hour course that will give you all the skills and knowledge necessary for confident small boat handling...we guarantee it!

This course is taught aboard the 19' Flying Scot, and has a student-to-instructor ratio of 3:1 the lowest in the Washington or Annapolis areas. With the exception of the first 10 minutes of orientation, the entire course is taught aboard the boat with you and your two classmates at the tiller.

Topics covered in the course include: rigging, the points of sail, navigational markers, right-of-way rules, man overboard procedures and plenty of mooring and docking drills.

You will be on your way to being a true Captain in no time!

Availability:
Seasonal; April - October, weekend/weekday options

Location(s):
Alexandria, VA

Essential Information:
Please arrive 20 minutes early for your experience.

Duration:
Weekend courses: Saturday & Sunday from 10am-4pm. Weekday courses: 2 1/2 hours Monday - Thursday: either mornings 10am-12:30pm, afternoons 1:30pm-4:00pm, or after work 5:30pm-8:00pm.

Maximum Participants:
Up to 3 people per class

Spectators:
Not Allowed

Weather Dependent:
This experience is weather dependent. Always contact the Experience provider with any questions regarding weather conditions.

What to Wear:
Dress for the weather conditions and wear rubber soled boat shoes or tennis shoes.

Booking Information:
For this experience, it is recommended to request bookings 14 days in advance.

Cancellation Policy:
Once you have received a booking confirmation, cancellations and rebooking are allowed up to 14 days prior to the Experience. Failure to appear on your booked date or to cancel and rebook at least 14 days prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your Experience.

Experience ID:
WAT-WAS-0006

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  1. When I arrive where do I park?
    Park anywhere in the marina or the adjacent picnic area parking lot.  Parking is always crowded on weekends, so plan to arrive early.  Do not park on the entrance road reserved for trailer parking.
  2. Are there restrooms?
    There are two National Park Service comfort stations located in the Park.  One is a short walk from the office near the ramp, and the other is located near the picnic area parking lot.
  3. Is there food/drink at the marina?
    As the marina sells only sodas, water and juices in machines, you are advised to pack snacks.  However, there are several restaurants and grocery stores close by.
  4. What shoes are suggested?
    While nonskid boat shoes are best, any rubber soled shoes (tennis shoes) will provide safe footing.  Sandals and flip flops do not provide foot protection.