A little about us...
Our certified sailing instructors are committed to making sure you learn about sailing and have a fun time too! From the American Sailing Association's classes Basic Keel Boat (22'-25' sailboat certification) to Bareboat Cruising (30'-45' sailboat certification), we will help you prepare for your next adventure by teaching you the skills and knowledge to ace your exam. Northern Virginia Sailing School has monohull sailing crafts from 22 feet to 36', all equipped with outboard motors or inboard engines.
Certified Courses - What will you learn?
ASA 101: Basic Keel Boat
Good for sailboat charters with 20′ – 27′ sloops and includes knowledge of basic sailing terminology, parts and functions, helm commands, basic sail trim, points of sail, buoyage, seamanship and safety including basic navigation rules to avoid collisions and hazards. The class is four segments of 2.5 hour on the water instruction that is hands-on and on the sailboat. Our small class sizes ensure each student gets plenty of time at the helm. This class comes with an official ASA logbook and ASA 101: Basic Keel Boat textbook.
ASA 102: Keelboat Sailing 2
ASA 102: Keelboat Sailing 2 is for sailors looking to take their ASA 101: Keelboat 1 to the next level and gain some valuable helm time prior to taking the ASA 103: Bareboat Cruising course. After a quick review of ASA 101: Keelboat Sailing 1, we will launch right into advanced maneuvers such as Ducking, Advanced Jibing, Slow and Go, Mooring, Sailing Backwards and Sailing Rudderless. There is also a heavy segment on Trim Concepts and Sail Shape and Power. After graduating this class, you will have advanced knowledge of sail controls and trim from all the points of sail.
The class is four segments of 2.5 hour on the water instruction that is hands-on and on the sailboat. Our small class sizes ensure each student gets plenty of time at the helm. There is currently no textbook available for this class, but there is a video you will have to watch prior to class.
ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising
ASA 101 certification is required in order to enroll. This course prepares you to operate a 25’-35’ sailboat, including cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather, safety and seamanship. The course includes two days of on the water instruction and an ASA 103 text book. Our small class sizes (4 or less) ensure you get plenty of time at the helm.
ASA 104: Basic Coastal Cruising
ASA 101 and ASA 103 certifications are required in order to enroll. This course prepares you to skipper a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered keelboat of approximately 30 to 45 feet in length during a multi-day cruise upon inland or coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds (up to 30 knots) and sea conditions. Knowledge of provisioning, galley operations, boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, routine maintenance procedures, advanced sail trim, coastal navigation including basic chart plotting and GPS operation, multiple-anchor mooring, docking, health & safety, emergency operations, weather interpretation, and dinghy/tender operation. This course is an intensive, three day/two night excursion. Students should be prepared to be onboard for the entirety of the trip. After you sign up, we will guide you through the process from preparing for departure to stepping back off after your journey.
- ASA 104: Bareboard Cruising Made Easy textbook
- ASA Certification Sticker (on graduation)
Non-Certification Classes - Other Ways to Learn
Refresher Course
Are you already certified but have not been on the water in awhile? Perhaps you received instruction at one point but would like to get more practice with an instructor before your next solo. Hone specific skills like docking or heeling. Start sailing again like a pro! Courses are tailored to individual needs. Available to current ASA certified sailors only.
Try Sailing Class
If you ask us, there is nothing better than gliding across the water with only the wind behind you (or beside you - more on that on your lesson!). Think you, your loved one, or a buddy would love to sign up for sailing lessons but want them to try it first? Sign up for a try sailing package, a two-hour excursion on the water where they will get a feel for the boat.
Kids Course
We are excited to offer kid's courses this year! Sign up your Mini Skipper (ages 9-12) or Junior Skipper (ages 13-16) for a series of 7 classes with one make-up day in case of poor sailing conditions. Classes are twice a week for two hours each and are small groups. We have a progressive curriculum filled with fun activity and of course, sailing! By the end of the class, your kid will be able to tie knots, name parts of the boat, navigate onboard, and learn concepts of seamanship and navigation.
Boat Owners Classes
Bought a sailboat and wondering what that thing-a-ma-bobber does? Want an extra hand onboard the first few sails? Yup, we do that to. Depending on your location and circumstances, we might even be able to come to you. Please call us for availability and pricing, as this may vary depending on your location and needs.
Come Aboard - And Stay Informed
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Get Directions
Address: Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge, VA
Arrival Directions: PLEASE TELL the contact station you are headed to the sailing school! After entering the park, go under the bridge and look for the large parking lot with the Breakwater Store in the center. We are by the water, to the left of the Breakwater Store when facing the river.