Most sailing schools are able to customize learning experiences for sailors, allowing for smaller number of people learning together. Many also offer private lessons for couples or family groups. 

Pat Reynolds photo

Sailing schools are run by passionate sailors who are able to quickly pivot to provide students with the experience they are looking for, so it never hurts to talk with a school representative to find a great fit for what you’re looking for. You can find sailing schools almost anywhere there is water to sail on, so if you’re looking to learn closer to home you’re probably in luck. 

ASA’s network of schools spans the globe. Find a school near you at www.asa.com/find-sailing-school.

Offshore Sailing is offering its online Learn to Sail course for free for a limited time with a subscription to its e-newsletter at www.offshoresailing.com. The company is also still booking classes and flotillas. 

Go for a sail

Bluewater Sailing School photo

It might seem obvious to suggest that simply getting out on the water is an excellent learning opportunity, but it’s often forgotten. Sailboats with owners eager to sail sit at the dock for lack of crew. Connect with a local sailing group or yacht club and look for sailing opportunities that might be no more than an afternoon daysail. With just a few people on board, social distancing is no problem and there’s more for everyone to do on the boat as well. 

It’s likely that many clubs will offer more shorthanded racing opportunities this summer, so if you’ve always wanted to dip your toe into a race around the buoys, it might be a great time. In a doublehanded race there’s plenty for both people on board to do that you’ll probably never be near 

each other. 

Asking to go for a sail often leads to new friendships as well, and that’s a bonus that lasts beyond the sailing season.