Kids Courses and Classes

Kid's Courses

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 1.5 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. To be eligible, students will need to be able to swim. A $45 deposit is required to hold your spot. The full cost of the course will be charged the first day of class.

Kid's Try Sail

Jump onboard with a qualified instructor for a 90 minute sailing adventure that introduces your kid to the world of sailing. Your kid must be able to swim and must wear a PFD at all times while onboard.

FAQs - before you come!

What if the weather looks bad?

We do our best to watch the weather, but mother nature often has the last word when it comes to sailing. Cancellations due to weather can occur at any time before or even during your sail. Your safety on the water is our #1 concern, and we will let you know if the weather looks unsafe. The school may cancel reservation at any time due to inclement weather, wind, unacceptable activity, or any other reason deemed permissible by Northern Virginia Sailing School. If the weather is forecast as a small craft advisory or worse, management will determine if your rental or lesson will be postponed or rescheduled. If you need to cancel or reschedule, you may do so prior to 24 hours before the class, otherwise there is a $35 cancelation fee. Certification must be completed in 2024 sailing season. A link to cancel or reschedule was included in your confirmation email.

What should I bring with me?

Please bring your sunscreen, hats, and lots of water! Wear boat shoes or light-colored rubber-soled shoes. Please check the weather before you come and email us at info@sailnova.com if you are unsure. The weather on the water can be 10 degrees warmer on hot days with no wind and can be 10 degrees cooler on windy, wet, or overcast days. Pack accordingly to make your experience a positive one.

Are private classes available?

Yes! Private classes are available and you must schedule them directly by phone or email (not on our booking portal).

Can I bring a friend/child on the boat with me?

If you are renting the boat or on a captained cruise, you may bring 3 guests with you (perhaps 1-2 more if there are kids, depending on their size. Email us ahead of time to check if you are unsure). All classes and cruises must can only have students onboard. If your significant other or friend is interested in sailing, but you are unsure if you want to sign them up, email us to see if there is room aboard for them to accompany the lesson as a try sail ($100, plus merchant fee).

What is your cancellation policy?

Hey it happens - we get it. There are two types of cancellations - the ones you need to make and the ones we need to make due to weather. Reservation changes that you make must be made 24 hours in advance of the reservation or a cancellation fee may be charged. It's easy - you can do it conveniently online on our booking portal or by clicking the link on your email confirmation and clicking cancel. The school may cancel reservation at any time due to inclement weather, wind, unacceptable activity, or any other reason deemed permissible by Northern Virginia Sailing School. If you need to cancel or reschedule, you may do so prior to 24 hours before the class, otherwise there is a $35 cancelation fee. Certification must be completed in 2024 sailing season. A link to cancel or reschedule was included in your confirmation email.

Can I bring food or drinks?

We only ask that you do not bring anything that will stain white boats (red wine, grape juice, etc.). And whatever you carry in, carry out with you when you leave.

How do I get into the park?

We are located inside Leesylvania State Park at 2001 Daniel K Ludwig Dr, Woodbridge, VA 22192. PLEASE TELL the contact station you are headed to the sailing school! Be prepared to show your confirmation email. Even if the park is closed due to capacity, you are able to enter after talking to them at the entrance. 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.

How old do you have to be to sail?

If you can walk, you can sail. We are only able to give ASA certifications to sailors 16 years of age or older. We do allow children 5 years and older to come on captained cruises, assuming the weather is favorable. A personal floating device (PFDs) must be provided, properly fitted, and worn at all times for all minors. PFDs for children below 5 years of age please purchase and bring with you - we do not carry these.

I started my classes but do not want to finish, can I get a refund?

If you are unsure if sailing certification is for you, please book a Try Sail class to try it first. None of our ASA certification courses are refundable once you begin your classes. Teaching certification classes is expensive and our class materials and resources are invested in your success. We also require that you complete all courses prior to the end of the season (end of October).

Can I finish up my certification next year?

We recommend scheduling your classes without any large gaps to get the most out of your purchase. Our certification courses should really be completed in the season they are begun. We handle these on a case by case basis. If you find you are in this position, please email us to see what your options are for sign-ups in the following season.