Beginner Keelboat Sailing

Whether you are looking to try something new, or you’re itching to buy a boat and sail around the world, this is the place to start. You will learn everything you need to know about sail theory and how to use the wind to get where you’re going! Be prepared to take the helm; you will quickly learn how to trim your sails and navigate Bellingham Bay! The goal of this class is to prepare people to independently skipper a boat.

Each Keelboat class is taught with a 4:1 student-instructor ratio and offers a great environment for addressing the particular needs of each student. This class takes place on the water, so come prepared to be out on the boat for nearly all of the session.

CBC is an accredited US Sailing Center; this class is taught by certified instructors to US Sailing standards.

Prerequisites: None! Though, if you want to experience our Keelboats first, try an Evening Sail before your course!

Next Step: Keelboat Refresher or Intermediate Keelboat

Recommended Reading: We use US Sailing's Basic Keelboat textbook in conjunction with this class. This book is a great resource as you start your journey as a sailor. We have a limited number of copies for sale and a few that are available to borrow from us. You can also find it online or at the library. We suggest that you glance through it before the start of class, having a sense of these concepts will allow us to maximize your time on the water!

Our Skills Test may be administered during the course at the instructor's discretion.

We do not want cost to be a barrier from participation, our scholarship program can be found here.