Learn to skipper a keelboat with a certified US Sailing course at Wrightsville Beach. This two-day adventure prepares you with skills and confidence to sail independently.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape to handle basic boat maneuvers and spend time on their feet.
Wildlife
History
Wrightsville Beach has long been a hub for water sports and sailing since the early 20th century, fostering a strong maritime culture.
Conservation
Local sailing providers promote eco-friendly practices like waste reduction and respecting protected marine areas to preserve the coastal ecosystem.
Sound Side
Learn to skipper a keelboat with a certified US Sailing course at Wrightsville Beach. This two-day adventure prepares you with skills and confidence to sail independently.
Sound Side is a Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina-based provider of guided coastal experiences, boat cruises, kayak rentals, and sailing instruction. Specializing in small-group outings and certified courses, Sound Side operates a variety of experiences including eco paddle tours through marshlands, birding and waterway cruises aboard the Carolina Runner, relaxed sunset sails aboard Zoe (a 2019 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349), and pet-friendly Palm Tree Island cruises that welcome well-behaved dogs.
The company offers both short excursions and multi-day educational programs: single- and tandem-kayak rentals for self-guided wildlife viewing, a US Sailing Basic Keelboat certification course taught over two days, and an ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising course delivered as a three-day offshore-focused experience aboard Zoe or Bella. Discover Sailing and other evening classes provide two-hour introductions to sailing, and Hobie rentals are available after certain instruction sessions.
Sound Side’s offerings are suitable for families, birders, and aspiring sailors. Tours emphasize local ecosystems, seabird habitats, and wildlife observation in the Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro area. Safety, certified instruction, and well-maintained vessels are central to the operation. As a featured provider on The Adventure Collective, Sound Side presents clear options for bookings, rentals, and formal sailing certifications in a popular coastal destination.
Location
Wrightsville Beach, NC
Operating on the North Carolina coast
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Guided cruises, rentals, and courses
Flagship Vessels
Zoe & Carolina Runner
Sailboat and tour boat for excursions
Typical Durations
1.5 hours to 3 days
Short tours and multi-day courses
Reserve an eco paddle, sunset sail, kayak rental, or certified sailing course with Sound Side for a safe, educational, and memorable coastal adventure.
Arrive Early for the Best Learning Experience
Schedule extra time to get familiar with the boat and meet your instructors before setting sail.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Deck surfaces can be slippery when wet, so secure shoes will help you maintain your footing.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Apply waterproof sunscreen and wear a hat to stay comfortable during daylight hours on the water.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to keep your energy up during active sailing days.
Non-Slip Sailing Shoes
Provides grip and safety on wet boat decks.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and occasional spring showers.
spring
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Offers sun protection during long hours on the water.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the sailing sessions.