Master Sailing Skills with the Ultimate 6.5-Day Combo Course in Fernandina Beach, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness is recommended; participants spend extended periods on deck requiring balance and endurance.
Overview
Transform your sailing skills over 6.5 immersive days on Florida’s northeast coast. Learn keelboat basics to advanced cruising techniques while spending two unforgettable nights on the water near Fernandina Beach.
Combo Course 101/103/104
For all ages! • 6.5 Days • One of our most popular courses
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About This Adventure
Embark on a transformative 6.5-day sailing adventure with our comprehensive combo package! Master essential skills from basic keelboat handling to advanced cruising techniques, all while enjoying hands-on learning aboard a sailboat. Experience two nights on the water and five delicious meals, making this an unforgettable journey into sailing mastery.
Master your sailing skills with our most popular combo package!
Duration
6.5 Days
About
This is one of our most popular courses. An all in one learning to sail hands on experience course. Basic Keelboat + Coastal Cruising + Bareboat Chartering - Includes 2 nights aboard plus 5 meals.
- 101: This course is designed to teach you to sail a boat of about 25-30 feet in length in light to moderate winds and sea conditions in familiar waters without supervision; a preparatory standard with no auxiliary power or navigation skills required.
- 103: Learn to cruise safely in local and regional waters as both skipper and crewon an auxiliary powered sailboat of about 25 to 30 feet in length, in moderate winds and sea conditions. Learn to Cruise Safely in Coastal Waters as both Skipper and Crew on an Auxiliary Powered Sailboat. Areas of instruction include: Safety, Rules of the Road, Weather, Seamanship, Gear & Equipment, plus Duties of the Skipper & Crew.
- 104: An advanced cruising Standard for individuals with cruising experience. The individual can act as skipper or crew of a 30 – 50 foot boat sailing by day in coastal waters. The Standard includes knowledge of boat systems and maintenance procedures. Some of the areas covered in this class are: Planning the Cruise, Living Afloat, Weather, Seamanship, Navigation, Knowledge of Boat Systems, and Maintenance
Prerequisites
None
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Morning and evening temperatures on the water can be cool; layering helps regulate comfort.
Stay hydrated
Keep a reusable water bottle handy, especially during sunny, active days aboard the boat.
Arrive early for orientation
Arriving at least 30 minutes early helps you get settled and familiar with the boat before the course starts.
Wear non-marking boat shoes
Footwear with good grip and no black soles protects the boat deck and prevents slips.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Osprey
- Bottlenose Dolphin
History
Fernandina Beach is Florida’s oldest and northernmost barrier island city, with rich maritime history dating back to the 16th century.
Conservation
Windward Sailing practices sustainable sailing education focused on minimizing fuel use and respecting local marine life.
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Adventure Hotspots in Fernandina Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
UV protection sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water during long sailing days.
summer specific
Windbreaker jacket
A lightweight jacket blocks wind and light rain, maintaining comfort during cool morning and evening sessions.
spring specific
Non-marking deck shoes
These provide secure footing without damaging the boat’s surface.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your gear dry when out on the open water or during unexpected splashes.