At HYC, we provide the national standard for quality sailing instruction through the US SAILING Keelboat Certification System. Since 1897, US SAILING has been the national governing body of the sport of sailing, and its certification program is recognized internationally. Our curriculum will prepare you to become an accomplished sailor through comprehensive training courses in a variety of formats. Each course is designed to help you reach your sailing goals in a reasonable amount of time while fully preparing you to meet US SAILING standards. Whether you are looking for a brief weekend course, or an extended learn to sail vacation, our sailing school is the ideal instructional facility for all levels of sailors.

Group classes are held on particular scheduled dates on weekends only, which can be found at the Class Schedule link to the left.  The Basic Keelboat group class is limited to 4 students maximum, and the Basic Cruising and Bareboat Cruising classes are limited to 6 students maximum.  It is a fun way to meet other members of the club and find sailing partners at and around your own sailing experience level.

Private classes are scheduled to your convenience and can be held mid-week or weekends.  No other students will be in the class except those you sign up in your group.  Private classes offer the opportunity to get more personalized and individual attention from the instructor and learn at your own pace.

Course Description:
Harbor Yacht Club’s Basic Keelboat lessons are the perfect introduction to sailing. Whether you are just starting out, or looking for a comprehensive review of the fundamentals, this course is right for you. This two-day weekend class is step one in the US SAILING Keelboat Certification System. With the majority of your class spent out on the water sailing, you will get plenty of hands-on experience under the guidance of our friendly, professional instructors. By the afternoon of your second day you will be able rig, sail and dock our 22 foot sailboats without supervision. Completion of the course earns you the US SAILING Basic Keelboat certification and makes you eligible to enroll in step two, Basic Cruising.

Study Tips:

• Students should read the assigned study materials before the first day of class.
• Addtional resources are available on the .
• Your Student Certification Standards handbook outlines all of the necessary skills and knowledge to pass each certification level.

Clothing Suggestions:

• Wear comfortable, layered clothing as temperatures may change throughout the day.
• Bring a warm jacket - temperatures are typically low in the morning and late afternoon.
• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are always a good idea for sun protection.
• Keep in mind that there is a cabin on the boat, so feel free to bring a backpack or bag with items you might need throughout the day.

Parking:

• Free parking for students is available across the street from the marina building next to Harbor Island Park. While you will get a parking spot in our lot on days that you rent boats, we ask that you please park in the lot across the street when you are taking a class.

Cancellation Policy:

• We look forward to teaching you here at Harbor Yacht Clubs, and we pride ourselves in having the best instructors teach our classes. With this in mind we need to book these instructors in advance to secure the best. When booking your class, please remember our cancellation policy:
  • Outside 30 days, there is no penalty. Inside 30 days, 50% of the class fee will apply. Inside 7 days, the full cost of the class will be incurred to reschedule at a later date. We ask that you please be certain of your availability to take the class before you schedule it.