Join the US Sailing Basic Cruising Series in Seattle and gain essential skills to skipper your own boat. This three-day course offers expert instruction, hands-on sailing, and the chance to explore Puget Sound’s stunning waters.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle basic boat maneuvers and movement on a moving vessel.
Wildlife
History
Seattle has a rich maritime heritage, with sailing deeply embedded in its culture since the early 20th century.
Conservation
Efforts to protect Puget Sound’s water quality and marine habitats are ongoing, with local regulations promoting eco-friendly boating practices.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating
Join the US Sailing Basic Cruising Series in Seattle and gain essential skills to skipper your own boat. This three-day course offers expert instruction, hands-on sailing, and the chance to explore Puget Sound’s stunning waters.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating in Seattle, Washington offers a variety of hands-on sailing and powerboating experiences across Puget Sound.
The organization runs day sails, two-hour introductory outings, weekend and multi-day certification courses, skills clinics, flotillas, and seasonal events. Short experiences include the Intro-to-Sail two-hour cruise led by a USCG Captain/Instructor, and TGIF Sunset Sails on 30'–46' sailboats with a six-person limit for semi-private evenings. Practical skills clinics include Anchoring & Crew Overboard practice with on-water drills and role rotations.
Certification-focused programs include the US Sailing Basic Keelboat Series (three-day instruction with certified instructors) and the US Sailing Cruising to Bareboat five-day course that prepares participants for bareboat skipper certification. Powerboating options include a Powerboat Conversion class to train certified members on the Camano 31 trawler Clifford, taught by instructor Margaret Pommert, and a two-day US Basic Powerboat Cruising Series that leads to an international US Powerboating certification.
Community and event offerings feature the Founders Cup - Capri Race Finale and the Southern Crossing Flotilla, a four-day fall excursion in South Puget Sound. Each program emphasizes on-water practice, instructor guidance, small-group formats, and real-world seamanship skills to build competence and enjoyment on Puget Sound.
Location
Seattle, WA
Operating on Puget Sound waters
Certifications
US Sailing & US Powerboating
Courses that lead to formal certification
Signature Vessel
Clifford (Camano 31)
Used in Powerboat Conversion class
Trips Offered
11 trips
Range from 2-hour to multi-day courses
Reserve a spot for a day sail, clinic, or US Sailing/Powerboating course — small groups, expert instructors, real on-water training.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Choose shoes with good grip to maintain stability on wet and moving decks.
Dress in Layers
Seattle’s weather can change quickly; layering keeps you comfortable and dry.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water on board to stay hydrated, especially during sunny or windy days.
Listen to Weather Briefings
Pay close attention to daily weather updates to ensure safe sailing conditions.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and wind to keep you dry during variable weather.
spring
Non-Slip Sailing Shoes
Ensure safety and grip on wet boat decks.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare from water and protects your eyes during bright days.
summer
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures throughout the day.
fall