Do I need any prior sailing experience?

No prior experience is necessary; the course is designed for beginners and newcomers.

What kind of boat will I be sailing?

You’ll skipper a sloop-rigged keelboat, perfect for learning basic sailing techniques.

Is the course certified?

Yes, upon successful completion, you receive the ASA 102 certification recognized nationwide.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Classes may be rescheduled or adjusted depending on weather conditions to ensure safety.

Are study materials provided?

Yes, comprehensive study materials are included to complement practical lessons.

Where do I stay during the course?

St. Augustine offers a variety of accommodations nearby, from historic inns to modern hotels.

Master Basic Keelboat Sailing in St. Augustine: Your Two-Day Beginner Adventure | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Adventure Brief

Learn to skipper a sloop-rigged keelboat in the heart of St. Augustine's historic waters with this immersive two-day beginner sailing course. Gain hands-on skills, safety knowledge, and a deep connection to Florida's coastal maritime heritage.

2 days, approximately 6–8 hours each day

moderate

From $842.70

Set sail on the historic waters surrounding St. Augustine, Florida, with the ASA 102 Basic Keelboat Sailing course, a perfect gateway for beginners and those brushing up on their sailing skills. This two-day, hands-on course is designed to teach you how to skipper a sloop-rigged keelboat confidently in light to moderate winds, blending practical skills with the deep maritime heritage of the nation’s oldest city. St. Augustine’s calm coastal waters provide an ideal classroom where the Atlantic meets the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty and manageable wind conditions for novices eager to learn the ropes.

As you embark on this adventure, you’ll learn the fundamental elements of sailing — from understanding sail trim and points of sail to mastering essential helm control and docking maneuvers. The instruction goes beyond the basics; you’ll uncover the critical sailing terminology, safety procedures, and navigation rules that make the difference between a smooth day on the water and a challenging one. Thanks to included study materials, participants are well-prepared to absorb the theory behind the practice, bridging classroom concepts with real-world application.

What makes this course truly special is the unique access it provides to St. Augustine's storied coastal environment. Sailing here means gliding past Spanish colonial landmarks, ancient fortresses, and untouched natural shorelines brimming with native salt marshes and marine life. The region's mild climate ensures comfortable conditions nearly year-round, encouraging learners to engage deeply without the stress of harsh weather.

The instructors bring local expertise and a passion for teaching, turning novices into confident sailors who can handle keelboats safely and independently. The ASA 102 course is recognized nationally, making it an essential credential for anyone aspiring to explore bigger bodies of water. Whether you live nearby or are visiting, this course offers a rare blend of education, adventure, and the chance to connect with the rich maritime tradition of Florida’s Northeast coast.

Beyond learning, this experience is a ticket to enjoying St. Augustine’s waterfront culture—from casual beach days to exploring the bustling marina. For anyone eager to expand their outdoor horizons, this two-day keelboat course is both an education and an unforgettable introduction to coastal adventure that opens doors to future voyages.

Nor far from this course, the city of St. Augustine offers charming historic districts, plenty of eateries serving fresh seafood, and cozy accommodations, making it a perfect base camp for your sailing journey and beyond.

About St Augustine Sailing

St Augustine Sailing operates premium sailing experiences and certified sailing courses in historic St. Augustine, Florida. The company offers a diverse lineup of public and private excursions — from shared brunch sails and sunset tasting cruises to intimate private dinner charters and wedding packages aboard luxury yachts. Educational offerings include ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising, Basic Keelboat prep classes, and hands-on day sails on 21–22-foot boats and larger Jeanneau models.

Each experience blends local maritime history, coastal wildlife viewing, and elevated hospitality. Professional skippers and trained crew lead all trips, delivering safety briefings, navigation expertise, and attentive service. On private dinner and tasting cruises, guests enjoy chef-prepared courses, sommelier-curated flights, and tailored menus served onboard. Photography-focused sails provide short portrait sessions against landmarks like the Lighthouse and Historic Bayfront.

St Augustine Sailing prioritizes safety and instruction for learners and recreational sailors. Courses emphasize seamanship, heavy-weather operation, docking skills, and practical boat handling on 30–45-foot auxiliary-powered catamarans. Short introductory sessions give beginners the confidence to handle sails and basic lines.

For weddings and private events, the company offers packaged options including on-yacht ceremonies, dockside Marriage Knot services, bouquets, photography, wedding cake, and charcuterie boards for small to mid-size groups. Vessel maintenance, certified instruction, and transparent booking policies support reliability and repeat business.

Located in downtown St. Augustine’s marina district, the operator leverages local knowledge of tides, wildlife patterns, and historic routes to create memorable, trustworthy coastal adventures for couples, families, learners, and food-and-wine enthusiasts. Bookings are available year-round with flexible cancellation policies online.