Are you eager to embark on the exhilarating journey of sailing? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, US Sailing provides top-tier educational opportunities for everyone. Our core mission is to introduce as many people as possible to the joys of sailing in a safe, fun, and high-quality environment. We believe that well-trained and competent sailors develop a lifelong passion for sailing, just like we have.
US Sailing offers comprehensive education and instruction across four distinct disciplines: Small Boat sailing, Keelboat sailing, Powerboating, and Windsurfing. We are here to guide you in choosing the perfect type of boat to learn on and help you discover the ideal course. Our meticulously crafted learning materials ensure you receive the best possible sailing education available.
Youth Sailing Education: Building a Foundation
Quality Instruction at All Levels for Young Sailors
US Sailing is deeply committed to providing young individuals with the opportunity to Learn To Sail from certified instructors in a secure and enjoyable setting. We have established the gold standard for youth sailing programs in the United States, offering rigorous certification courses for instructors and coaches, alongside the innovative Reach STEM education program that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into sailing.
Learn More about Instructor Certifications
Adult Sailing Education: Enhance Your Abilities
Build Your Sailing Skills with Progressive Certification
The Keelboat Certification System is designed for adults and features seven levels of education, starting from Basic Keelboat and progressing to advanced Offshore Passagemaking. This system employs a building-block approach, combining newly acquired skills with practical experience. Sailors at every level gain valuable knowledge and experience, allowing them to advance their sailing capabilities as far as they desire, at a pace that suits them.
Find a Course Near You
Instructor Training & Certification: Share Your Passion
Teach Others and Become a Certified Sailing Instructor
If you are passionate about sailing and aspire to teach others, US Sailing offers several pathways to achieve Instructor Certification in sailing and powerboating. We provide certifications for instructors in small boats, keelboats, powerboats, windsurfing, and even STEM education. Our instructor courses typically range from 2 to 5 days and are hosted by various boating programs nationwide throughout the year.
See All Instructor programs
Race Officials Training & Certification: Contribute to Fair Racing
Ensure Fair Play as a Certified Race Official
Race officials are crucial to maintaining the quality, integrity, and consistency of sailboat racing, from local club races to international championships. Our training and certification programs offer experienced sailors a rewarding way to give back to the sport by supporting racers on the water and ensuring fair competition.
See All RO programs
Essential Resources for Sailing Education
Education Resources: Safety and Best Practices
Risk Strategies – Gowrie Group
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