Learn to Sail

Smallboat Sailing

Small boat sailing is a simple, inexpensive way to get started in the sport. The fundamental basics of sailing are most easily learned in small boats. Many small boats are designed specifically for youth, and most provide a lifetime of enjoyment for adults as well. Generally, small boats, are under 25 feet in length. They include a wide assortment of dinghies, daysailers, multihulls, and small keelboats. Because of their size and simplicity, many small sailboats can be sailed by just one or two people.

Many instructional programs teach on and rent small boats, including a majority of community sailing programs, most yacht club junior programs, and an assortment of aquatic centers, camps, parks & recreation departments, Y’s, Scout programs, university and military recreation facilities. By learning to sail a small boat with a US Sailing-certified instructor, you’ll learn the skills you need to build your confidence and ability to sail the boat well and safely.

The Learn Sailing Right! instructional books are the industry standard for small boat education, with step by step guidance for beginner and intermediate sailors. You may become a certified Smallboat Sailor by completing the requirements in the Little Red Book, US Sailing's Small Boat Sailor Certification Record Book, supplied and validated by your US Sailing instructor. Be sure to check out all of the US Sailing Education materials available for purchase in the US Sailing Store.