What should I bring?
Please wear close-toed shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring layers, such as a light jacket or rain gear. It tends to be cooler on the water, especially during the early season when the water temperature is cold.
Note that the DSC docks do not have running water, so be sure to bring enough water for the day or plan to refill off-site during the lunch break.
We also recommend bringing a pair of gloves for grip and hand protection. While the DSC provides life jackets, you are welcome to bring your own if preferred.
When will I receive my course material?
If you live locally, you are welcome to pick up your course material from the office. Please email info@downtownsailing.org to arrange a time to pick it up. Otherwise, you will receive the material the first day of your class.
Do I have to fill out any forms before the class?
If you have not already done so, please fill out our liability waiver. We will have paper copies of this available on the first day of your class if you are not able to complete it beforehand.
Will we have a lunch break?
If you are attending a full day course, you will have a half an hour to 45 minute lunch break. We try to schedule this around noon, but the exact time might vary slightly depending on day's weather. You are welcome to bring a snack and packed lunch, although you will have time to grab food at one of our nearby restaurants.
Are there restroom facilities available for students?
Yes, Port-a-Johns are available for student use at all times. They are kept locked when not in use to prevent public access and are unlocked during class hours. The Port-a-Johns are locked at 5:00 pm daily and are cleaned weekly by Bobby's Pottys.
What if there is inclement weather?
Classes will be held in light to moderate rainy conditions, so be prepared to sail even if it is not a bright, sunny day. We do not sail in thunderstorms. Our instructors are flexible and we will often rearrange course schedules to accomplish land-based instruction during periods of inclement weather.
We will contact you if the course has to be canceled or rescheduled due to weather - if you have not heard from us, plan to attend your course as scheduled.
What is your cancellation policy?
Participant cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made 7-13 days in advance of the event date will receive a 50% refund, unless we are able to fill the opening in which case a 100% refund will be issued. Cancellations made within 48 hours to the event will not be refunded unless the opening is filled, in which case a 100% refund will be issued.
The above policy applies to change requests, and we have a $35 Course Change Fee to switch dates or cancel a class with any amount of notice.
The DSC will do its best to find a replacement student for the course.
If the Downtown Sailing Center cancels your course, you will be rescheduled for another offering at no cost or a refund will be issued.
I've completed a course and don't own a boat. How can I keep sailing?
Join the DSC
Students who pay the non-member rate for a class and join the DSC within the same year are eligible to have the member rate discount for that class applied to their membership fee. (Contact the office at info@downtownsailing.org to set this up.)
As a member, you'll have access to various sailing opportunities, allowing you to continue learning and connect with other sailors. Members can attend Wednesday evening and Sunday afternoon member sails and also have the option to sail with a skipper during other times throughout the week. We also encourage members to participate in volunteer events, where there are opportunities for all skill levels. These events are a great way to improve your sailing skills while giving back to the community.
Take Another Class
For more formal education, the DSC offers a range of courses. If you’re new to sailing, our Intro to Sailing course is a perfect starting point. No prior experience is required, and you'll learn the basics of crewing, helming, trimming sails, and responding to wind conditions.
If you’re already comfortable with basic boat handling and want to build toward becoming a DSC skipper, consider the Intermediate Sailing course. Prerequisites include proficiency in wind awareness, tacking, jibing, and sailing terminology. In this class, you'll practice safe departures, docking, person-overboard rescues, and advanced sail trim techniques.
If you are interested in a more intensive experience and in a US Sailing certification, our Basic Keelboat course is for you! It covers all of the material in both the Intro to Sailing and Beyond Intro courses. On the final day you will take a written test and an on-the-water skills evaluation and successful sailors will receive the US Sailing Basic Keelboat certification. This course is fast-paced, and we often find that students with a bit of previous sailing knowledge have the best experience. You can get some experience first by joining the DSC as a member and attending our Member Sails, volunteering at Community Engagement and Accessible events, or simply sailing with friends.
If you're interested in sailing on larger boats, our Basic Cruising or Bareboat Cruising courses are ideal next steps, though they require successful completion of the Basic Keelboat class as a prerequisite.
Still Have Questions?
Please email us at info@downtownsailing.org.
