Set sail in Seattle with a private 5-day course that certifies you as a US Sailing Bareboat skipper. Master essential cruising and navigation skills aboard a larger vessel and anchor in beautiful harbors each evening.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical health with ability to handle moderate physical tasks such as climbing aboard, handling lines, and standing for hours.
Wildlife
History
Seattle’s maritime roots run deep, with its harbors historically serving as critical trade and fishing hubs since the 19th century.
Conservation
Local sailing schools support sustainable boating practices, emphasizing minimizing pollution and protecting Puget Sound’s fragile ecosystems.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating
Set sail in Seattle with a private 5-day course that certifies you as a US Sailing Bareboat skipper. Master essential cruising and navigation skills aboard a larger vessel and anchor in beautiful harbors each evening.
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.
Dress in layers for variable weather
Seattle’s marine climate can shift quickly; bring moisture-wicking base layers and waterproof outerwear.
Stay hydrated on deck
Even on cool days, staying hydrated helps maintain focus and energy while learning to sail.
Prepare for seasickness
If prone to motion sickness, bring remedies and eat light meals before sailing days.
Bring a waterproof bag for electronics
Protect your phone, camera, and navigation tools from splashes and rain.
Waterproof sailing jacket
Keeps you dry and protected from wind and rain during sailing.
all
Non-slip deck shoes
Provides traction and safety on wet boat surfaces.
all
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for better visibility and eye protection.
summer
Moisture-wicking base layers
Keeps you warm and dry under outer layers in cooler conditions.
spring|fall|winter