easy
2–3 hours per session
Basic physical fitness is sufficient; expect moderate activity including moving around the boat and handling lines.
Discover the joy of sailing with the Adult Basic Sailing Course at Belle Haven Marina. Over four weekdays, learn key sailing skills in a relaxed, hands-on setting near Alexandria, VA.
$500 • Ages 16+ • 4 Day Courses 10AM - 12:30PM • Call to Book
Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure with our Learn to Sail course! Over four engaging sessions, you'll master essential skills like rigging, navigating, and docking aboard a Flying Scot. With hands-on lessons and a low student-to-instructor ratio, you'll gain confidence and competence on the water in no time.
Duration: 4 Day Sets of 2.5-Hour Courses Schedule: Monday - Thursday from 10AM - 12:30PM Price: $500
Our Learn to Sail course is a 10-hour program is divided up into four two-and-a-half hour sessions. This manual will follow that format as well. After completing the course students should be able to rig a Scot, know the points of sail, read channel markers, know the right-of-way rules, perform man overboard drills, and safely dock the boats.
This class covers 10 hours of hands-on lessons aboard a Flying Scot. We operate on a 3:1 student to instructor ratio.
Topics covered include:
Food and Beverages: We suggest you pack a lunch each day to make the most of your lunch break at our picnic areas. The marina vending machines sell sodas, water, and juices only. There are also several restaurants and grocery stores nearby, but please be advised that you will likely lose your parking space. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you for your lesson, especially on hot summer days. No alcoholic beverages are permitted on any rental vessel.
Clothing & Shoes: Students should always make sure to dress for the current and expected weather conditions. A good rule is to wear one layer more than you would be comfortable in on land. In spring and fall, a light windbreaker is desirable, as it is always cooler on the water. In the summer, wear light-colored clothes and a hat or visor. Good sunglasses with straps and sunscreen are also suggested.
While non-skid boat shoes are best, any rubber-soled shoe such as tennis shoes will provide safe footing. Please do not wear sandals or flip flops as they do not provide adequate foot protection.
Choose shoes with good grip to maintain stability on wet decks.
Stay hydrated and protect your skin with sunscreen and a hat.
Arriving 15 minutes early gives you time to prepare and get comfortable.
Weather on the water changes quickly; layering helps you stay comfortable.
Belle Haven Marina sits near historic sites from Alexandria’s colonial era and offers views of the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
The marina supports clean water initiatives to protect the Potomac River’s aquatic ecosystem and encourages eco-friendly boating practices.
Provides secure footing and stability on wet surfaces.
Protects against spring showers and wind chill on the water.
spring specific
Essential to protect skin during sunny, prolonged exposure outdoors.
summer specific
Keeps you comfortable as temperature changes throughout the day.
fall specific