Dive into sailing on the Hudson with Hudson River Community Sailing’s Membership Orientation. Learn the skills and safety needed to navigate New York’s iconic waterway confidently.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly classroom and dockside instruction with some light physical activity.
Wildlife
History
The Hudson River was a critical artery for trade and exploration, shaping New York’s growth since the 17th century.
Conservation
HRCS promotes sustainable boating practices to protect the river’s fragile ecosystem amidst heavy urban use.
Hudson River Community Sailing
Dive into sailing on the Hudson with Hudson River Community Sailing’s Membership Orientation. Learn the skills and safety needed to navigate New York’s iconic waterway confidently.
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.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your orientation to complete check-in and gear setup without rushing.
Dress for the Weather
Wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket; the river breeze can be cool even on sunny days.
Safety First
Pay close attention during the safety briefing—understanding local tides and wind patterns is crucial.
Bring Water and Snacks
Hydration and light snacks keep your energy steady during orientation, especially on warmer days.
Non-slip Boat Shoes
Provides grip on wet surfaces and comfort during dock and boat activities.
summer
Weatherproof Jacket
Protects against river breezes and rain during on-water sessions.
spring
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during orientation and subsequent sailing.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare from the water and protects eyes during outdoor instruction.
summer