Sailing Courses
Set Sail for an Adventure of a Lifetime
Learn the fundamentals of seamanship as you journey into the mesmerizing world of sailing education! During a NOLS sailing course, you’ll develop new skills like how to manage lines, tie knots, maneuver and care for your vessel, and interpret tide tables. The type of boat you use will vary based on your course, from sailboats to keelboats, and for each course you’ll be able to meet new challenges and apply your growing leadership skills.
Why Choose NOLS for Sailing Education and Adventure Courses?
Gain invaluable skills, learn from expert sailing instructors, and develop confidence on the water with our sailing courses.
Expert Sailing Instructors
Our expert instructors are experienced sailors bringing years of sailing experience and unparalleled expertise to the table, along with an unwavering passion for teaching. Whether you're a novice, eager to learn to sail, or a seasoned sailor seeking to refine your skills, you can feel confident knowing that an expert NOLS sailing instructor will be by your side every leg of your journey. Their patient guidance and hands-on approach ensure you'll quickly grasp the intricacies of sailing and build the confidence to handle the seas with ease. Join us and sail under the mentorship of the best sailing schools in the business!
Breathtaking Sailing Locations & Environmental Stewardship
Environmental Stewardship is at the heart of our sailing philosophy. Embracing Leave No Trace principles, we cultivate responsible sailing practices that respect and protect marine ecosystems. While indulging in unparalleled sailing destinations, brace yourself for breathtaking vistas. NOLS leads you to some of the world's most stunning coastlines and waters, offering a perfect backdrop for your nautical adventures. In harmony with nature, our courses allow you to appreciate and cherish the pristine environments we explore, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.
Master Essential Sailing Skills
We prioritize immersive and hands-on learning, ensuring you master essential sailing techniques. Hone expertise in boat handling, knot tying, and reading the wind in a comprehensive course. Delve into navigation theory and coastal navigation techniques. Enhance weather awareness for better voyages, and fine-tune teamwork and communication with fellow crew members. Learn collision avoidance techniques and gain the confidence to tackle real-world challenges while adapting to changing conditions. Guided by experienced instructors, you'll develop the intuition needed to navigate the waters with finesse.
Sailing Risk Management
Managing risk is our top priority, and we ensure that at our sailing school, you learn the necessary skills to handle potential challenges on the water. You'll achieve a comprehensive understanding of collision avoidance techniques, practicing safety procedures to minimize risks and maximize fun and wellness. Our instructors will guide you in mastering storm tactics and the basics of responding to unexpected situations at sea. With a focus on preparation and prevention, our sailing courses empower you to confidently navigate any situation that may arise during your nautical adventures. Trust in our expertise, and embark on a transformative sailing journey where risk management and skill harmoniously meet.
NOLS Sailing Courses
Whether you’re eager to sail New Zealand's Marlborough Sounds or to explore Baja's coastal waters, you'll find your dream sailing course with NOLS!
Baja Coastal Sailing
Experience the thrill of one of our most popular courses: Baja Coastal Sailing in the Sea of Cortez. Suitable for all skill levels, you'll learn coastal navigation theory, collision avoidance, reading the wind, and eco-friendly camping. Step aboard to explore the desert coastline, encounter diverse wildlife, and connect with local fishing communities.
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Baja Coastal Sailing - Adult
Feel the wind rush through your hair as your boat sails over blue waves. Explore quiet coves and spot fish swimming in colorful reefs. Relax in the evening on a beach under the stars. On this course, you’ll join a group of adults to push your sailing skills and develop your leadership style. The course starts with the basics, making it a good fit for both experienced sailors and those who are new to sailing.
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Baja Sailing and Whale Watching - Adult
Set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the pristine waters of the Sea of Cortez, renowned for its vibrant biodiversity and crystal-clear waters. This 22-day Baja Sailing and Whale Watching course combines hands-on sailing instruction, immersive wilderness exploration, and the awe-inspiring experience of witnessing the annual migration of Pacific gray whales.
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New Zealand Sailing - Adult
Wake up at sunrise and feel the wind on your face. Hear your keelboat creak as you tighten the lines and prepare for the day’s sail. Check the charts and then—launch. On this course, you’ll join a group of adults to explore the Marlborough Sounds in the upper South Island of New Zealand.
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Women's Baja Coastal Sailing - Adult
Join a group of self-identified women to enhance your sailing skills and leadership style. Suitable for all levels, learn coastal navigation, reading the wind, and anchoring in 22-foot Drascombe longboats. Explore tidal pools, desert life, and engage with local fishing communities, fostering cultural understanding and Spanish language practice.
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