Step aboard with Sail Buffalo’s ASA 101 course and master keelboat sailing on the fresh waters of Lake Erie. Gain solid skills and confidence to skipper your own boat in light to moderate winds.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–15 hours over 3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic fitness for moving on deck and handling sails in varying wind conditions.
Wildlife
History
Buffalo’s waterfront was a key stop on the Erie Canal and has evolved into a vibrant sailing community since the mid-20th century.
Conservation
Sail Buffalo emphasizes responsible boating practices to protect Lake Erie’s fragile freshwater ecosystem.
Sail Buffalo
Step aboard with Sail Buffalo’s ASA 101 course and master keelboat sailing on the fresh waters of Lake Erie. Gain solid skills and confidence to skipper your own boat in light to moderate winds.
Located in Buffalo, New York, Sail Buffalo provides member-access sailing rentals, instruction, and youth programs focused on Lake Erie and Buffalo’s Inner Harbor. The organization operates a fleet of well-maintained yachts and offers three-hour rental increments with all-inclusive pricing that covers dock fees, insurance, and fuel. Named vessels in the fleet include PAWS (Tartan 27'), ORION (HR 28), GALE FORCE (HR 25), PEARSON 28, and PATTY LOU (HR 25), available to members for day and evening outings.
Sail Buffalo also runs certified sailing courses: ASA 101 for beginning keelboat skills and ASA 103 for advancing to skipper competence on 25–35 auxiliary sailboats. Courses emphasize seamanship, navigation, safety, and hands-on cabin and deck procedures so participants can build practical confidence under experienced instruction.
Youth programming includes a 2025 Junior Sail Camp that combines daily on-water training with shore-based activities, teamwork exercises, and safety instruction tailored to campers. The camp schedule and activities focus on rigging, steering, and age-appropriate sailing fundamentals, plus social events and meals during the summer season.
Membership-based access, certified instruction, a named fleet, and seasonal junior programming describe Sail Buffalo’s core offerings. Operations center on safe, skill-building sailing experiences on Lake Erie and in Buffalo’s Inner Harbor. Prospective members and students can review course details, vessel availability, and seasonal schedules to plan rentals, lessons, or camp enrollment.
Contact and membership information, seasonal availability, and registration for ASA courses and junior camps are available through Sail Buffalo’s online listings and member portals for planning and booking and event scheduling.
Member Access
Member-only
Exclusive access to the named fleet
Trip Length
3 hours
Standard rental increment
Location
Buffalo, NY
Sailing on Lake Erie
Courses Offered
ASA 101 & 103
Beginner to advanced instruction
Explore member rentals, enroll in ASA 101 or ASA 103, or register for the 2025 Junior Sail Camp — plan Lake Erie sailing today.
Dress in Layers and Bring Sun Protection
Lake Erie’s winds can feel cool even on warm days, so wear moisture-wicking layers and a hat with sunscreen.
Arrive Early for Safety Briefing
Safety protocols and boat orientation start promptly; being on time ensures you don’t miss critical instructions.
Stay Hydrated
Freshwater sailing can be deceptively dehydrating—bring plenty of water for your training sessions.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Wet decks are common, so shoes with good grip improve safety and confidence aboard.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and spray during cool spring sessions.
spring
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare off the water and protects eyes in bright sunlight.
summer
Non-Slip Deck Shoes
Essential for safe movement on wet boat decks.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during active sailing instruction.