Do I need prior sailing experience?

No, this class is designed for complete beginners with no prior sailing knowledge required.

What should I wear to the class?

Wear comfortable layers and closed-toe shoes with good grip; bring sun protection if attending in warm weather.

Is there an age limit for participants?

There is no specified minimum or maximum age, but participants should be able to safely stand and move on the boat and docks.

Will I be sailing on open water during the class?

This prep class includes dockside instruction, but does not involve going out on open water during the 3-hour session.

Can I book this class for a private group?

Group size is limited to six participants, but private bookings may be available upon inquiry with the provider.

Is parking available at the meeting point?

Yes, parking is available near 3076 Harbor Drive, where the class meets.

Master the Basics with St. Augustine's Essential Basic Keelboat Prep Class

Located along the sun-kissed coast of St. Augustine, Florida, the Basic Keelboat Prep Class offers a perfect gateway for beginners eager to embrace the world of sailing. St. Augustine, known as the nation’s oldest city, boasts a rich maritime heritage and a stunning harbor that invites exploration by water. This 3-hour immersive course expertly combines classroom lessons with dockside practice to give novices a solid foundation in sailing fundamentals.

This course stands apart by merging detailed, approachable instruction with hands-on experience, designed specifically for newcomers to sailing. Students start indoors where they unravel sailing vocabulary and key concepts, such as different sailboat types, parts of the vessel, and basic rigging. Grasping the points of sail and navigation rules provides essential situational awareness, while practical lessons on knot tying prepare students for the realities onboard. The welcoming environment encourages questions, making sailing knowledge accessible and less daunting.

Transitioning from classroom to dockside, participants step onto an actual keelboat to put theory into practice. Here, the instructor guides learners through safety protocols, boat anatomy, and sail plan interpretation, further integrating weather and tidal considerations. This blend of theory and real-world application fosters confidence, empowering students to understand their roles as future crew members and appreciate the nuances of sailing.

What makes this program exceptional is its balance of comprehensiveness and approachability. Small class sizes capped at six ensure personalized attention and a collaborative atmosphere. The course’s emphasis on foundational skills creates a lasting base for continued sailing adventures, whether recreational or competitive. Offered at 3076 Harbor Drive, the location is easily accessible from St. Augustine’s downtown area, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

St. Augustine’s harbor area itself is a vibrant hub, rich with coastal flora and home to diverse marine life, adding an authentic backdrop to this learning experience. The city’s long-standing maritime culture enriches the journey, linking today's aspiring sailors to centuries of seafaring tradition. This course is an outstanding choice for visitors seeking an educational, engaging introduction to sailing in one of Florida’s most historic and beautiful coastal towns.

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.