Sailing Classes FAQ
Adult Sailing Classes FAQ
Where do classes meet?
Adult sailing classes and private lessons meet on the second floor of the Northwest Maritime Center. Often the instructor will wait on the balcony to guide you to the appropriate classroom or boat. If you are taking a full weekend or week-long course, you will meet in the 2nd-floor classrooms located in the red Chandler Education Building.
What kind of boat will I be learning to sail in?
We teach on our Cal 20 and Catalina 250. They are responsive, but have a 6 ft. keel so they can’t tip over. There is a comfortable, dry cockpit and a small cabin to store your backpacks, lunches, extra layers, etc.
Are there restrooms on the boats?
There is a portable head (toilet) on the boats. Classes usually stay on the water for 3 hours at a time maximum. (And we are happy to come back into port as needed.)
What should I wear and bring?
The weather is changeable and it is often one layer colder on the water, so bring more than you think you need. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water are also recommended. You are welcome to bring gloves or any other equipment you choose. Cameras and phones are okay but should be stowed below during class for safety.
What about lunch?
If you are attending full-day classes, we come in for lunch. You can go to our local restaurants for lunch, or bring your own. We stop for 45 minutes or so.
What if the weather is bad?
We will sail in the rain, but not in sustained winds over 17 knots
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
Life jackets are mandatory and provided for all of our students. If you have one of your own that you prefer, you can bring it.
Private Group Sailing Lessons FAQ
Are these sails ADA accessible?
At this time, we are not prepared to provide ADA accommodations on our boat tours. We are aware that this is an important goal for us to work towards.
Where should I park?
There is public street parking available in front of the Northwest Maritime Center. There is also a larger public parking lot at the intersection of Monroe and Washington. There is also public parking along Monroe Street adjacent to Memorial Field.
Where do I check in and board?
Please check in for your Private Group Sailing Lesson at the center dock in Point Hudson, in front of the cupola house flagpole. Look for the signboard at the top of the ramp.
What should I wear?
We recommend wearing sneakers or flat-soled shoes and comfortable clothing—layers are best! Remember, it’s usually one layer colder on the water.
What should I bring?
It’s always a good idea to bring extra layers, sunglasses, hat, water, camera, snacks as needed, and your motion sickness medicine (if needed).
Where do you sail?
We’ll be sailing around Port Townsend Bay and Admiralty Inlet.
What happens if it rains? Do you sail in inclement weather?
We can sail in a sprinkle, but we don’t sail in a downpour (not fun for anyone!). We offer full refunds for weather cancellations such as storms, high winds, or unsafe smoke levels.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, we have a composting toilet—easy to use!
What ages are permitted on the boats?
All ages are welcome, as long as they can safely board the boat and wear a USCG-approved life jacket (provided for infants through adults).
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations will be refunded the cost of the sail, less an administrative fee, as follows:
Over 14 days in advance = $50 fee
7 days in advance = $75 fee
2–6 days in advance = $100 fee
Same day cancellation = $150 fee
No show = No refund will be given
Reschedule = $50 change fee