KEELBOAT SAILING PRIVATE LESSON

What Will I Learn?

Private lesson learning topics are tailored to your specific learning objectives. Topics taught during a Keelboat Private Lesson commonly include:

• Sailboat rigging and terminology
• Basic sail theory
• Sail trim, steering, tacking, jibing, upwind sailing
• Leaving and returning to a dock
• Body mechanics and crew overboard recovery
• Safety position, reefing, and heaving-to
• Mooring and anchoring
   

Is this the right class for me?

This is the right class if you are looking to learn to sail a keelboat with us but cannot fit our regular classes into your schedule. Students who have taken any of our formal recreational classes can use a private lesson to refresh their skills under the guidance of an instructor. Private lessons are also a good opportunity to get out on the water if you are not experienced, letting your instructor sail the boat. If you are an experienced sailor looking to rent with us, a membership orientation may be more appropriate for you, as we do not rent our keelboats.

For sailors looking to work towards a US Sailing certification and/or qualify for our Basic Cruising course, the Basic Keelboat program covers all necessary topics and skills.

Requirements

• Private Lessons have no prerequisites or required prior experience. 
• Lessons are open to all participants aged 14 and up. A general liability waiver is required to participate. Anyone under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian. 
• Participants must acknowledge that they are water-safe (able to swim 50 meters and comfortably tread water).
• Up to 4 participants. For lessons for more than 4 participants please see special events.

How to Prepare

Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. The temperature can feel much cooler than expected once you are on the water, so it is a good idea to bring a jacket, even on warm days. We suggest comfortable closed-toed shoes. Sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended. Lifejackets are provided and required for all sailing lessons.

It is unlikely that you will end up in the water while sailing during your lesson. It is likely that you will get a little bit wet from small splashes, handling wet lines, etc. anytime you are on a boat. 

For any lesson, we recommend bringing sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. MBAC has a water bottle refilling station, but keep in mind that food and drink are not available for purchase at MBAC.

Parking can be a challenge at MBAC, especially during the summer months. Please visit our parking page for more information.

What's Next?

Continue your sailing education through our recreational sailing classes or another private lesson. To qualify for small boat sailing rentals, you can demonstrate proficiency in a membership orientation lesson. Successful demonstration of proficiency also makes you eligible for our Sailing Membership program! Membership is a low-cost way to continue sailing and learning through member-exclusive small boat qualifications, discounted rentals, and free instructional clinics. Find rates and more details on our Membership page.

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