Discover advanced youth sailing at Belle Haven Marina! Over five days, young sailors master new techniques, explore scenic waterways, and enjoy fun races near Alexandria, Virginia.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 full days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with endurance for extended periods on the water and in the sun.
Wildlife
History
Belle Haven Marina is located near historic Alexandria, a city with deep maritime connections dating back to the colonial era.
Conservation
The local community actively supports Dyke Marsh preservation efforts to protect the habitat for native birds and aquatic life.
Belle Haven Marina
Discover advanced youth sailing at Belle Haven Marina! Over five days, young sailors master new techniques, explore scenic waterways, and enjoy fun races near Alexandria, Virginia.
Belle Haven Marina in Alexandria, Virginia provides on-water instruction and a wide selection of watercraft rentals for learners and recreational visitors. The marina offers structured sailing courses for adults and youth, including weekday and weekend adult basic sailing programs taught aboard Flying Scot sailboats and multiday youth camps focused on racing and advanced skills. The Safe Powerboat Handling course is a 16-hour, four-evening curriculum that is US Coast Guard-approved, giving aspiring boaters hands-on training in docking, anchoring, and safety procedures.
Belle Haven Marina’s rental fleet includes stand-up paddleboards, single and double kayaks, canoes, and Jon-style row boats that accommodate small groups for short excursions. Rental durations range from one to four hours depending on the craft. Youth programs present progressive skill development with multi-day lessons and opportunities for supervised on-water practice. Adult courses emphasize low student-to-instructor ratios to ensure focused, hands-on learning.
Located adjacent to scenic marshland explored during some youth sessions, Belle Haven Marina blends instructional programs with flexible rental options so visitors can choose formal lessons or independent time on the water. All descriptions and offerings are provided in third person to accurately represent the marina’s publicly available course structures, rental types, and program approvals. Visitors should consult Belle Haven Marina directly for current schedules, availability, and safety requirements.
Location
Alexandria, VA
Near Dyke Marsh and local waterways
Class Size
Small classes
Low student-to-instructor ratio
Offerings
11 experiences
Sailing, rentals, and youth camps
Rental Lengths
Up to 4 hours
Kayak, canoe, and row boat rentals
Choose an adult sailing class, youth camp, USCG-approved powerboat course, or rent a kayak, canoe, SUP, or row boat — reserve space and check schedules online.
Wear a Life Jacket at All Times
Ensure safety by keeping a properly fitted life jacket on during all water activities.
Apply Waterproof Sunscreen
Sun exposure can be intense on the water, so use waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin.
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warm and sunny sailing sessions.
Practice Basic Sailing Knots Beforehand
Familiarize yourself with essential sailing knots as this will make learning new skills easier during the course.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Vital for safety during all water activities.
Waterproof Sailing Gloves
Protects hands and improves grip while handling sails and lines.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during warm weather sailing.
summer
Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket
Useful for protecting against chilly winds and sudden weather changes.
spring