Join the weekend keelboat course at Hudson River Community Sailing to learn sailing skills in the heart of New York City. Perfect for beginners, this program combines hands-on instruction with stunning skyline views.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours per session
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable moving around on a boat, with moderate physical activity involved.
Wildlife
History
The Hudson River has been a vital trade and transportation route since colonial times, playing a key role in New York's development.
Conservation
The program promotes responsible boating to protect the river's ecosystems and maintain water quality.
Hudson River Community Sailing
Join the weekend keelboat course at Hudson River Community Sailing to learn sailing skills in the heart of New York City. Perfect for beginners, this program combines hands-on instruction with stunning skyline views.
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.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers and bring rain gear; weather on the river can change quickly.
Arrive early for docks and safety briefing
Get prepared and receive initial instructions before sailing begins.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to stay comfortable during sunny days.
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized throughout the course.
Warm layers
Layered clothing keeps you comfortable as weather can vary.
spring|fall
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protection from the sun during outdoor water activities.
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Boat shoes or non-slip footwear
Footwear with good grip needed for boat safety.
Hat or cap
Additional sun protection for your face.
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