If you’ve ever been curious about all the sails on the harbor or on the Charles River, here are a few options for local lessons and memberships to take the helm.
Boston Sailing Center
Since its foundation in 1977, this center has become the largest sailing club in New England. Find the center at 54 Lewis Wharf when the sailing season begins on Monday, April 29. For seasoned sailors, there are five membership offerings to set sail as often as you like. If you are still working on your sea legs, check out the “Learn to Sail” course which covers all the basics, including: parts of the boat and rigging, points of sail, tacking and jibing, sail shape control, rules of the road, man overboard drills, and navigation.
Boston Harbor Sailing
The Boston location can be found off Independence Wharf or by using the Barking Crab Marina pickup. Club vessels that are not being used by members are available for daily or weekly rentals from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. There are a variety of memberships + a daysailing course, masters course, and cruising course for all levels to learn something new.
Community Boating, Inc.
This nonprofit organization is the oldest public sailing organization in the United States, dating back to 1937. Its goal is to teach sailing to those who would not typically have access. Find this group on the Charles River Esplanade between the Hatch Shell and the Longfellow Bridge, with programs for youth + adults.
Bonus: MIT typically offers its Learn to Sail course series April-September. Keep in mind participants must be available for three consecutive classes in the same week.
