Do I need prior sailing experience to join?

No prior experience is required; this introduction session is designed for beginners.

What should I wear for the sailing session?

Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes and dress in layers suitable for the weather, including a hat and sunscreen in summer.

Is the sailing session private or group-based?

This is a private experience tailored to your pace and learning preferences.

Can children participate in the sailing experience?

Participants should typically be at least 12 years old; please check with Erie Islands Sailing School for specific age policies.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my booking?

If conditions are unsafe, sessions may be rescheduled or refunded depending on cancellation policies.

Are any certifications provided after the session?

This introductory session does not provide official certification but is a great step toward future ASA courses.

Introduction to Sailing in Sandusky, Ohio | Sailing | Water Activities

Discover the joy of sailing with Erie Islands Sailing School & Adventures LLC in Sandusky, Ohio. This Introduction to Sailing experience is perfect for beginners who want a hands-on, relaxed introduction to the sport without committing to a full course. Over a three-hour session, guided by certified ASA instructors, you'll learn fundamental sailing techniques, boat handling, and safety procedures while enjoying the stunning waters of Lake Erie. Whether you prefer a sunrise morning voyage, a sunny afternoon sail, or a tranquil evening cruise, this private outing offers flexibility and personalized attention to help build your confidence on the water. Sandusky’s location along the southern shore of Lake Erie provides ideal sailing conditions with steady breezes and beautiful scenery. As you glide across the water, soak up views of nearby islands and even glimpse local wildlife. It’s an unforgettable way to spend time outdoors, create new skills, and make memories that last long after docking.

About Erie Islands Sailing School & Adventures LLC

Erie Islands Sailing School & Adventures LLC is a Put-in-Bay, Ohio-based sailing school and charter operator offering a mix of instructional courses and recreational cruises. The company operates the Black Pearl for specialty excursions such as sunset sails and nautical photo shoots, and delivers American Sailing Association (ASA) certified courses ranging from Keelboat 2 to Advanced Coastal Cruising.

Instructors provide hands-on training for ASA certifications including docking endorsements, coastal navigation, weather endorsements, and refresher reviews. Courses are structured for small groups and emphasize safety, seamanship, and real-world practice on Lake Erie waters.

Erie Islands Sailing School & Adventures also offers short on-water modules through the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) for focused skill-building in open water boat handling.

Recreational experiences include three-hour sunset sails that welcome guests 21 and older to bring beverages responsibly, and private nautical photo sessions aboard the Black Pearl with options for dockside or on-water settings. Training programs vary from one-day endorsements to multi-day cruising courses designed for sloop-rigged keelboats and larger coastal vessels, including night-sailing elements for advanced certification.

All offerings are delivered from Put-in-Bay, a well-known Lake Erie destination, providing access to diverse sailing conditions and navigational challenges ideal for learning and leisure. Erie Islands Sailing School & Adventures emphasizes certified instruction, practical experience, and memorable maritime experiences for sailors and visitors seeking both education and adventure. Training follows ASA curriculum and NSBC guidelines to meet recognized industry standards, with emphasis on passenger safety, seamanship, emergency procedures, and responsible boating practices across Lake Erie.