Learn to Sail at True North

Lessons, Certifications & Membership in New York Harbor

About True North

Why learn with us?

At True North Sailing Center, we believe great sailors are built through hands-on experience, professional instruction, and a genuine passion for being on the water. Our programs combine safety, confidence-building, teamwork, and real-world seamanship in an environment that is both welcoming and challenging.

What sets us apart:

Professional, safety-focused instruction
Hands-on learning on the water
Small group personalized coaching
ASA Certification pathways
Supportive sailing community and club atmosphere
Lessons designed to build real confidence and competence

ASA 101

Basic Sailing

Start your sailing journey with hands-on instruction. This beginner-friendly course teaches the fundamentals of sailing, boat handling, safety, docking, and navigation while giving students plenty of time at the helm. No experience required.

ASA 102

KEELBOAT SAILING 2

ASA 102: Keelboat 2 is the sailor’s gateway to advanced sailing skills and coastal exploration! Building on the foundation from ASA 101, this course takes you deeper into the essentials of sailing a keelboat. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll refine your skills in sail trim, boat handling, and maneuvering while learning good crewmanship and teamwork. ASA 102 is not just about sailing—it’s about expanding your skills and preparing you for the independence and excitement of confidently commanding a keelboat.

Next Class: October 17,18 2026, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

ASA 103

Coastal Cruising

Take the next step beyond basic sailing and learn how to confidently skipper larger boats in coastal waters. This course introduces navigation, anchoring, boat systems, weather awareness, and trip planning while building real-world sailing experience.

Next Class: October 12 (Evening Classroom) & October 17-18, 2026 (On-Water)

ASA 104

Bareboat Charter Prep

Designed for sailors ready to captain and charter cruising sailboats on their own. Students learn advanced cruising skills including passage planning, overnight systems, docking, anchoring, crew management, and operating larger cruising yachts with confidence.

ASA 118

Docking & Maneuvering

Master the maneuver that trips up more sailors than any other. This one-day course teaches you how wind, current, and prop walk affect your boat — and how to use that knowledge to bring it alongside cleanly every time. You’ll practice controlled stops, tight-space turns, and spring-line docking, with and without engine power, until marina docking becomes second nature instead of something you dread. A popular option: train on your own boat, so the skills you build carry straight over to the vessel you’ll actually be docking. $450 per student.

ASA 105

Coastal Navigation

Build the skills needed for extended coastal passages and overnight cruising. This advanced course covers passage planning, advanced navigation, weather forecasting, watchstanding, and voyage management while preparing you for longer trips under sail.

ASA 104 & 114

Combined Catamaran Cruising Certification

Take your sailing to the next level with True North Sailing Center’s immersive live-aboard cruising program, combining two certifications into one unforgettable experience.

Join the Club

Become a member to enjoy unlimited access to the water, meet fellow sailors, and experience the freedom of sailing without owning a boat.