This is the US Sailing Basic Keelboat learn-to-sail program for adults. Students learn boat handling skills appropriate for skippering and crewing on keelboats up to 27 feet. These skills will form the solid basis for a lifetime of sailing. Each session starts with a two-hour, interactive Shore School class focusing on sail theory and terminology. Following this classroom session, 20 hours of on-the-water lessons develop individual skills. There is a written test and a skills evaluation to complete the session. Lessons are taught by trained instructors in CWB’s fleet of larger sloop rigged boats.
Course Information: On-the-water lessons are taught with one instructor and 1 to 3 students. No swimming test or swimming skills are required and students should not expect to go into the water. However, students should dress for the weather in layers, and can expect to get wet due to rain or spray. Rain gear and life jackets are available to borrow for on-the-water lessons. No special shoes or equipment are required. Lessons run rain or shine and are only canceled if weather conditions are deemed unsafe, such as in sustained wind speeds of over 15 knots.
Dates & Scheduling: Each Basic Keelboat session begins in the classroom with Shore School on the first Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm. Students then schedule five 4-hour on-the-water lessons according to their own availability, with lesson blocks available on Saturdays, Sundays, from 12:30PM-4:30PM, If you're looking for a weekday option, we also offer weekday evening classes when daylight permits.
Please note that we ask all students to complete the course within three months from the start date. This allows for consistent progress and ensures you get the most out of your sailing experience.
- Cancellation more than 30 days in advance: refund less a $50 administrative fee.
- Cancellation 30-15 days in advance: 50% refund of the course fee.
- Cancellation 14 or fewer days in advance of the course: No refund.
Cancellation requests must be submitted via email to: adultsailing@cwb.org.
Please Note: CWB reserves the right to cancel any course due to emergency or lack of enrollment. In such case, we will refund tuition in full.
Once registered, participants will receive a confirmation email including more details with a link to complete final registration and our liability waiver. This must be completed prior to attending Shore School.
Member pricing is available to current CWB members. Membership will be verified. Please become a member right away if selecting member pricing. Annual membership starts at $75. Thank you!