Sail, Paddle, and Rent on the Potomac — Belle Haven Marina

Belle Haven Marina — Sailing Courses, Kayak Rentals, and More in Alexandria, VA

Belle Haven Marina offers a comprehensive range of on-water experiences in Alexandria, Virginia, including sailing courses, Stand-Up Paddleboard rentals, kayak and canoe rentals, and a US Coast Guard-approved powerboat course. Located near scenic marshland and popular paddling routes, the marina accommodates beginners, youth sailors, and recreational paddlers.

Key offerings

• Adult Basic Sailing Course (Weekdays & Weekends) — Four-session weekday courses and two-weekend courses that teach rigging, navigation, docking, and hands-on sailing aboard Flying Scot sailboats. Small class sizes focus on skill development.
• Youth Racing & Advanced Sailing Courses — Multiday youth camps with progressive instruction, three-hour lesson blocks, race practice, and exposure to boats like the Flying Scot and jib training.
• Safe Powerboat Handling — A 16-hour, four-evening curriculum that is US Coast Guard-approved, covering docking, anchoring, rescue techniques, and safe operation.
• Rentals: SUP, Kayak, Canoe, Jon/Row Boat — Flexible rental windows for stand-up paddleboards, single and double kayaks, canoes, and Jon-style boats for small groups.

Why choose Belle Haven Marina

• Practical, hands-on instruction in small groups helps new sailors build confidence quickly.
• Youth programs combine skill-building with supervised on-water experiences and local exploration.
• The USCG-approved powerboat course provides a recognized safety-focused curriculum for new boaters.

Popular search terms related to Belle Haven Marina

• Belle Haven Marina sailing courses Alexandria
• kayak rentals Alexandria VA
• SUP rentals near Dyke Marsh
• USCG-approved powerboat course Alexandria
• youth sailing camp Flying Scot

What to expect on a visit

• Sailing instruction taught on Flying Scot boats with guided drills and real-world practice.
• Short-term rentals for up to four hours on many craft; SUPs available by the hour.
• Youth courses structured as weeklong programs emphasizing incremental skill progression, safety, and on-water confidence.

Booking and practical details

Visitors seeking adult sailing lessons, youth sailing camps, USCG-approved powerboat instruction, or hourly rentals should confirm current schedules, availability, and safety requirements directly with Belle Haven Marina. Advance reservations are recommended during peak seasons for both courses and rental equipment.

Final notes

Belle Haven Marina combines structured sailing education with accessible rental options, making it a practical choice for learners and recreational paddlers in Alexandria, Virginia. Whether learning to sail on a Flying Scot, taking a USCG-approved powerboat class, or renting a kayak for a short paddle, the marina provides focused instruction and a variety of craft to match different on-water goals.