3 Hours with an instructor
Gain calm, confident control at the dock with a three-hour hands-on refresher from Naos Yachts in Marina del Rey. Small groups and vessel-specific drills make this the fastest way to eliminate docking anxiety.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and ability to step on/off docks and move quickly around the vessel; not strenuous but requires balance.
Wildlife
History
Marina del Rey was developed in the mid-20th century as a purpose-built small-craft harbor and retains a blend of working and recreational slips.
Conservation
Minimize fuel and bilge discharge, dispose of trash ashore, and avoid disturbing wildlife around the breakwater to protect the harbor ecosystem.
Naos Yachts
3 Hours with an instructor
Naos Yachts is a Marina del Rey-based charter and sailing school offering a range of day sails, sunset cruises, powerboating courses, and ASA certification classes.
The company operates a mixed fleet that includes monohulls, catamarans, Beneteau models, Lagoon catamarans, and specialized boats like the Beneteau First 14 for single- or two-person sailing experiences. Trips available include three-hour daysails and sunset sails, extended day sails, instructor-led ASA courses such as ASA 104/114 combo to Catalina, coastal navigation (ASA 105), docking and maneuvering (ASA 118), dinghy handling (ASA 116), plus beginning and advanced powerboating (AB101/AB103).
All instruction is delivered by US Coast Guard licensed instructors or USCG-trained captains, and courses emphasize hands-on learning, safety, and small-group attention — advanced and beginning powerboating classes limit enrollment to three students per session. Vessel types and on-water routes focus on Santa Monica Bay and Marina del Rey harbor, providing scenic coastal sailing and practical seamanship training.
Naos Yachts serves private charters and public classes for families, friends, and aspiring boaters seeking certification or skill-building. Booking options include hiring a trained USCG captain for relaxed cruises or self-skippered outings for experienced sailors. Equipment and vessels used in courses are modern and purpose-suited for their curriculum, from dinghy towing and beach landings to coastal navigation and overnight passage training. The business combines a large local fleet, certified instructors, and structured ASA curriculum to deliver reliable experiences on Southern California waters. Reservation and scheduling are available through Marina del Rey booking channels and online reservation platforms nationwide inquiries.
Fleet Size
Largest in LA
Variety of monohulls & catamarans
Certified Instructors
USCG Licensed
Training by US Coast Guard instructors
Location
Marina del Rey
Sails on Santa Monica Bay
Courses Offered
10 tours & classes
Includes ASA & powerboating courses
Reserve a three-hour day sail, ASA course, or private charter in Marina del Rey — certified instructors and modern vessels ready.
Check tides and wind
Review the day's tide and local wind forecast before you arrive—timing a session near slack tide reduces complications.
Wear non-marking shoes
Flat, non-marking deck shoes improve grip and protect the boat while you practice lines and fenders.
Communicate clearly
Use short, clear radio or verbal calls and practice line-hand signals with your crew before making the approach.
Arrive early for briefing
Arrive 15–20 minutes early to meet the instructor, review the plan, and inspect the vessel.
USCG-approved life jacket
Required safety gear and useful during close-quarters practice.
Non-marking deck shoes
Improve footing on wet decks and protect the boat's gelcoat.
Windproof jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cool, windy sessions on the water.
fall
Sunglasses with retention strap
Protects eyes from glare and prevents loss while handling lines.
summer