Learn to sail on the historic Hudson River with a comprehensive keelboat course that combines hands-on practice and expert guidance, culminating in certification.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
18 hours total, typically split over several sessions
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable in the water and have good mobility, but no advanced fitness level required
Wildlife
History
The Hudson River has been a vital navigational route since indigenous Lenape tribes traveled its waters for centuries.
Conservation
Courses emphasize environmental stewardship, encouraging students to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect marine ecosystems.
Hudson River Community Sailing
Learn to sail on the historic Hudson River with a comprehensive keelboat course that combines hands-on practice and expert guidance, culminating in certification.
Hudson River Community Sailing provides sailing instruction and recreational programs on the Hudson River, operating launch points in Chelsea and Inwood. The organization focuses on practical, on-water teaching for beginners through intermediate sailors, offering short introductory lessons, multi-hour open lessons, private instruction, and extended Basic Keelboat courses that follow US Sailing standards.
Programs include Chelsea Intro to Sailing sessions (weekday and weekend), Chelsea Open Lesson sessions for sailors with basic skills, Group Private Lessons, and a Chelsea Sunset Sail for a relaxed, scenic experience. For those seeking certification, Chelsea and Inwood Basic Keelboat courses provide 18 hours of combined on-water and classroom instruction aligned with US Sailing Basic Keelboat criteria. A new offering provides a consecutive-Saturday format for the Chelsea Basic Keelboat Course.
Youth programming includes City Sail Summer Camp, a week-long camp that combines sailing with STEM activities on the Hudson River. Membership Orientation is offered to introduce prospective members to programs and safety expectations. In all activities, instruction emphasizes safety briefings, hands-on steering and sail control, fundamental boat terminology, and seamanship basics.
Hudson River Community Sailing is positioned as a community-focused provider of instructional sailing experiences, delivering structured courses and flexible lesson formats for students, families, and adults who want to learn sailing skills, earn Basic Keelboat certification, or enjoy scenic sails on the Hudson River.
Locations
Chelsea & Inwood
Two Hudson River launch points
US Sailing
Basic Keelboat courses
Courses follow US Sailing standards
Programs Offered
Lessons, Courses, Camp, Membership
Options for all ages and levels
Trips Offered
11 Experiences
Range from intro to certification
Book intro lessons, private instruction, Basic Keelboat weekends, or a sunset sail from Chelsea or Inwood — practical, on-water learning for every level.
Start with a prepared mindset
Come equipped with basic swimming ability and a willingness to learn. No prior sailing experience needed, but familiarity with knots helps.
Check weather forecast beforehand
Wind and weather conditions significantly impact sailing lessons—aim for clear days with moderate breezes.
Dress appropriately for water activities
Wear quick-drying clothes and bring layers to stay comfortable on the water.
Arrive early for your session
Give yourself time to settle in, meet your instructors, and prepare your gear.
Waterproof sailing jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during variable weather conditions.
all-year
Non-slip boat shoes
Provides grip and safety on wet surfaces aboard the boat.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Sunscreen and hat
Protects from sun exposure during extended periods on the water.
spring;summer;fall
Waterproof gloves
Helps maintain grip and protect hands in colder weather.
winter