Keelboat Sailing & Training with Seattle Sailing Club in Ocean City
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours per class/session
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed for active sailing tasks including moving around the boat and handling lines.
Overview
Seattle Sailing Club offers hands-on keelboat sailing courses and inclusive programs on Puget Sound, perfect for beginners through advanced sailors. Learn practical skills, join community races, and experience the Northwest’s stunning waterways firsthand.
Details
Situated on the inviting waters of Puget Sound, Seattle Sailing Club offers a comprehensive gateway into the world of keelboat sailing with courses and experiences designed for adventurers of all skill levels. Based near Shilshole Bay, this destination is a cornerstone for sailing enthusiasts looking to improve their seamanship or just get out on the water in a vibrant, social setting. Ocean City might call to mind sun and sand on the East Coast, but it is Seattle's premiere club that commands attention here for hands-on sailing education and community engagement.
Seattle Sailing Club specializes in small-group sailing instruction, focusing on American Sailing Association (ASA) certifications that cater to novices and seasoned sailors alike. Their signature ASA 101 Keelboat Sailing course introduces novices to boating basics, right through to advanced coastal cruising techniques in ASA 103 and beyond. Notably, the club’s Women’s Programs and LGBTQ+ groups foster inclusive environments that encourage connection and confidence behind the wheel.
Enrollees praise SSC’s approachable, expert instructors and the quality fleet maintained for training and recreational outings. Members take part in additional clinics, racing lessons, and flotillas, offering opportunities to sharpen skills in real-world settings. Events such as the seasonal Sailfest unite the community in celebration of the sailing life, offering public sails and learn-to-sail activities.
Seattle Sailing Club’s location in the Pacific Northwest positions it uniquely among other sailing schools, with direct access to the untamed diversity of Puget Sound’s marine landscapes—waterfalls, wildlife, and city skylines framed by mountains. The club operates with a passion for hands-on learning, making it a premier choice for those seeking practical instruction and spirited camaraderie on the water.
Adventure Tips
Master the Basics Before Sailing
Practice common knots and sail handling skills from the ASA 101 manual to maximize your time on the water.
Dress for Variable Weather
Layer your clothing as conditions on Puget Sound shift quickly with wind and spray, even in summer.
Reserve Early for Popular Courses
Seattle Sailing Club’s inclusive specialty programs and certifications often fill months in advance.
Engage with Community Events
Attend Sailfest or racing clinics to put new skills into action and meet fellow sailors.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet anchorages in Shilshole Bay perfect for peaceful breaks
- Offshore views of the Olympic Mountains from the marina
Wildlife
- Harbor seals frequent the bay’s rocky outcroppings
- Bald eagles soar overhead near coastal forests
History
Seattle’s maritime heritage dates back to early 20th century commercial and recreational boating on Puget Sound, shaping a rich sailing culture.
Conservation
The club promotes sustainable boating practices to preserve Puget Sound’s delicate marine environment, including waste reduction and wildlife protection efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Shilshole Bay marina docks
- Onboard from the bow or stern
- Alki Point for cityscape backdrops
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Non-slip Sailing Shoes
Secure footing on wet decks is critical to safety and comfort during training and sails.
Waterproof Sailing Jacket
Protects against wind and spray, keeping you dry and warm in the Pacific Northwest’s variable conditions.
spring|fall|winter specific
Layered Clothing
Flexible layers allow temperature regulation amid fluctuating weather on the water.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare off the water and protects your eyes during sunny summer sailing.
summer specific