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.
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 and if it will be no cost to you.
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 give us a call at 571-331-0901 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?
Due to COVID, we are not permitting friends/children on the boat for classes. For rentals, you can bring up to 4 friends!
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. Cancellations made by the school due to inclement weather will be entitled to a refund for the remaining time left on the reservation.
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. Enter the park and tell the contact station you are headed to the sailing school. Drive in until you see the boat ramps and large parking lots on your right. Turn into this and head to the far boat ramp (on the far side of the building). You will see the sailboat masts!!
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. An adult must accompany all minors at all times, but we do allow children 5 years and older to participate on captained cruises. Children may accompany an adult, but a personal floating device (PFDs) must be provided, properly fitted, and worn at all times. 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 (101 & 103) 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. If you choose to wait until the next season to complete your course, you may need to purchase additional classes at the discretion of your instructor.
