Learn to Sail with US Sailing
Whether you’re a first time sailor or an experienced instructor... we have an educational opportunity for everyone..
Part of US Sailing’s vision is to introduce as many people as possible to this great sport. We want to make sure you’re learning in a safe, fun, high-quality environment…because if you’re a well-trained, competent sailor you’ll love sailing as much as we do.
US Sailing provides education and instruction in four separate areas: Small Boat (i.e. day sailing), Keelboat, Powerboat and Windsurfing. Learn more about the different programs offered by US Sailing schools and instructors. We’ll help you decide what kind of boat you want to learn on and find a course to take – and we’ve written the books ourselves to make sure they’re the best around.
Youth Education
Quality Instruction at All Levels
US Sailing is committed to ensuring that young people learn how to sail from certified instructors in a safe and fun environment. We have set the standard for youth sailing programs in the U.S. by offering certification courses for instructors and coaches, as well as the innovative Reach STEM education program.
Learn More about Instructor Certifications
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Adult Education
Build your skills
The Keelboat Certification System offers seven levels of adult education ranging from Basic Keelboat through Offshore Passagemaking. These certifications follow a building-block technique of combining learned skills with experience. New sailors gain knowledge and experience at each level and can take their sailing skills as far as they want to go at their own pace
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Instructor Training & Certification
Teach others to sail
For those interested in teaching sailing or powerboating, there are several opportunities to achieve Instructor Certification. We offer certification for smallboat, keelboat, powerboat, windsurfing and STEM instructors. Courses range from 2 days to 5 days, and are hosted by boating programs around the country, year-round.
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Race Officials Training & Certification
Represent US Sailing on the race course
Race officials ensure quality, integrity, and consistency for all participants in the sport of sailboat racing, from casual weeknight club racing to world championships. Our training and certification programs allows sailors to give back to the sport by supporting the racing sailor out on the water.
