Discover sailing with Belle Haven Marina’s Adult Basic Sailing Course weekends in Alexandria, VA. Gain essential skills aboard a Flying Scot with expert instructors guiding every step.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours each weekend day
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic physical mobility and be comfortable with light exertion such as bending, pulling lines, and standing for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
Alexandria's waterfront has a rich maritime history dating back to its colonial days as a vital port along the Potomac River.
Conservation
Belle Haven Marina participates in local waterway cleanups and encourages eco-friendly boating practices to preserve the health of the Potomac ecosystem.
Belle Haven Marina
Discover sailing with Belle Haven Marina’s Adult Basic Sailing Course weekends in Alexandria, VA. Gain essential skills aboard a Flying Scot with expert instructors guiding every step.
Belle Haven Marina in Alexandria, Virginia provides on-water instruction and a wide selection of watercraft rentals for learners and recreational visitors. The marina offers structured sailing courses for adults and youth, including weekday and weekend adult basic sailing programs taught aboard Flying Scot sailboats and multiday youth camps focused on racing and advanced skills. The Safe Powerboat Handling course is a 16-hour, four-evening curriculum that is US Coast Guard-approved, giving aspiring boaters hands-on training in docking, anchoring, and safety procedures.
Belle Haven Marina’s rental fleet includes stand-up paddleboards, single and double kayaks, canoes, and Jon-style row boats that accommodate small groups for short excursions. Rental durations range from one to four hours depending on the craft. Youth programs present progressive skill development with multi-day lessons and opportunities for supervised on-water practice. Adult courses emphasize low student-to-instructor ratios to ensure focused, hands-on learning.
Located adjacent to scenic marshland explored during some youth sessions, Belle Haven Marina blends instructional programs with flexible rental options so visitors can choose formal lessons or independent time on the water. All descriptions and offerings are provided in third person to accurately represent the marina’s publicly available course structures, rental types, and program approvals. Visitors should consult Belle Haven Marina directly for current schedules, availability, and safety requirements.
Location
Alexandria, VA
Near Dyke Marsh and local waterways
Class Size
Small classes
Low student-to-instructor ratio
Offerings
11 experiences
Sailing, rentals, and youth camps
Rental Lengths
Up to 4 hours
Kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals
Choose an adult sailing class, youth camp, USCG-approved powerboat course, or rent a kayak, canoe, SUP, or row boat — reserve space and check schedules online.
Arrive Prepared with Appropriate Clothing
Wear layers that can handle sun exposure and wind as conditions change quickly on the water.
Check Weather Before Your Course
Wind and weather conditions affect sailing safety—ensure you know updated forecasts.
Hydrate Frequently
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on sunny or warm days.
Footwear Matters
Wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes to protect your feet and keep stable aboard the sailboat.
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Non-slip Boat Shoes
Provides safe footing aboard the sailboat and prevents slipping.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during unexpected showers or wind chill.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial while spending time outdoors on the water.