Do I need prior sailing experience?

No prior experience is required; this course is designed for beginners.

What is the maximum number of participants per course?

This is a private experience, limited to you and your party for personalized instruction.

Is swimming ability required?

Basic swimming skills are recommended for safety but not mandatory.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sun protection, water, comfortable clothing, and appropriate footwear for boating.

Will the course cover navigation skills?

Yes, basic navigation and safety techniques are integral parts of the curriculum.

Can I book the online introductory class separately?

The online intro is complimentary and included when you book the two-day in-person course.

Master Basic Keelboat Sailing in Irvington, Virginia

Experience the thrill of sailing with Sail & Surf Adventures' ASA 101 - Basic Keelboat Sailing course in Irvington, Virginia. This private two-day adventure is designed for beginners ready to gain confidence and essential skills to skipper a keelboat on the scenic waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Starting with a complimentary online introductory class, you'll get familiar with basic sailing terminology, helm commands, and navigation safety before heading out on the water. Under light to moderate wind conditions, participants receive hands-on instruction, enabling them to steer, tack, and dock with ease. Irvington’s calm, sheltered waters offer a perfect learning environment coupled with stunning natural views. Whether you're learning for fun, preparing for a day on the water, or building towards more advanced certifications, this course provides a supportive and engaging experience. The course is tailored to fit individual learning paces, making it an ideal private outdoor adventure. Beyond sailing skills, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the coastal environment and its marine life. With expert instructors guiding you every step of the way, this is your chance to start a lifelong connection with the sport of sailing in one of Virginia's beautiful nautical communities.

About Sail & Surf Adventures

Sail & Surf Adventures operates sail and training experiences from Tides Inn marina in Irvington, VA. The company runs day sails, sunset and moonlight cruises, Chesapeake Circle and Cedar Island overnight trips, and ASA-certified courses (ASA 101, ASA 103, ASA 104).

Passengers sail aboard a beloved 36' Columbia Galene for two-hour, moonlight and sunset cruises, and a 58' catamaran Pisces for three-hour and catamaran sunset voyages. Provisions are provided on selected Chesapeake Circle trips, and guests are encouraged to bring snacks and personal items for comfort.

The instruction-focused courses include ASA 101 Basic Keelboat, ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising (three-day), and ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising. These courses cover sail trim, docking, navigation rules, auxiliary engine operation, safety techniques, and emergency procedures. Students receive hands-on experience and are prepared for coastal and multi-day cruising.

Safety briefings precede each trip, and vessels are maintained to coastal standards. Skippers and instructors prioritize clear communication, practical demonstrations, and gradual skill progression to build confidence on the water.

Guests enjoy scenic passages along the Rappahannock River into the Chesapeake Bay, sunset photography opportunities, and small-group sailing that accommodates active participation or leisure. The Cedar Island overnight blends hands-on navigation practice with a restful night anchored off a sandy beach.

ASA 101 includes a complimentary online introductory class. ASA 104 students should bring the course textbook and essential gear. Cedar Island nights include hands-on activities: weather forecasting, route planning, anchoring, and navigating local shoals and currents. Moonlight sails depart just before sunset to capture twilight reflections.