Sailing Classes

A primary focus at Atlanta Yacht Club is teaching people how to sail, or how to sail better. We are fortunate to have among our members six US SAILING certified Level I sailing instructors, three of whom will soon also be certified at Level II for racing and coaching. These and other dedicated volunteers conduct sailing classes throughout the year for juniors and adults. The emphasis is on water safety, boat handling, race tactics and -- not incidentally -- fun!

The club owns and maintains a fleet of Optimist dinghies and 420s for training, as well as several utility craft for teaching support and safety. Classes are also taught using Lasers provided by the participants. Onshore sessions are conducted in our Training Room, which is equipped with tv, internet, dvd, whiteboard, indoor land-drill equipment, and other training aids.

AYC members and their immediate family have first priority in Training classes. We welcome and encourage non-members to participate based on availability.

AYC Children and Junior Sailing Classes

Please visit the Junior Sail Training Page for more information

AYC Adult/Teen Beginning Sailing Classes

Registration is now open for 2020 Fall Sailing Classes!

Fall Schedule:

August 29

September 12

September 19

September 26 (includes AYC Open House)

October 3 (includes AYC Open House)

Only online registrations will be accepted. Placement will be confirmed based on availability and upon receipt of payment. Click here to register

A low key approach to instruction will allow people who have never sailed to handle a small sailboat ... while having fun! Each class will include basic on-shore instruction as well as time on the water in the club's two-person 420 class sailboats (which is also used for high school and collegiate level sailing). The goal of this class is to teach the fundamentals of sailing and how to safely handle a boat on the water.

Classes are from 9 a.m. until noon. As the size of the class is limited by the number of available boats, early registration is strongly suggested. Both AYC members and non-members are encouraged to sign up and participate.

On the class days that include a Fleet Host day, students will be given the opportunity to stay after the class and participate in sailing with that particular hosting fleet. This will give students the opportunity to sail each fleet boat, meet other club members, practice what we have been learning, and see what it is like to pull it all together in a club race. Lunch will be provided by the fleet and if you choose to stay, the day will end at 4PM. If you have the time to stay and sail on these days you will see your sailing skills and enthusiasm grow!

Fees are $250 for non-members, and $75 for members per person for the 5-weekend session.

You will need your own Coast Guard approved life jacket, be able to swim and be in good health. Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and will not scuff a sailboat. Clothing should be comfortable wet or dry. Bring water with you and you are always welcome to bring lunch and possible crew for a club member at fleet races when you are ready.