
Eagle Creek Sailing Club
Sailing Courses
Our mission is to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds can discover the joy and discipline of sailing. We are committed to nurturing a lifelong love for the sport while promoting personal growth, continuous improvement, and a deep respect for the water. Through exceptional education, hands-on experience, and a focus on community, we empower sailors to achieve their full potential—on the water and beyond. Our dedication to diversity, skill development, and the spirit of sailing as a way of life drives us to inspire every student to embrace the challenges and rewards of this timeless pursuit.
Ready to set sail and challenge yourself on the water?
We offer small boat classes and cabin boat options for all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your racing skills, our Learn to Sail & Race classes are the perfect place to start. We believe sailing is for everyone, and our inclusive, engaging classes are designed to help you build confidence, learn new skills, and have fun while doing it!
What we offer:
- Beginner-Friendly Instruction: Our experienced, friendly instructors will guide you step-by-step as you learn the basics of sailing. You’ll get hands-on experience, learning how to rig, steer, and sail a boat while mastering key concepts in wind, knots, and navigation.
- Racing Skills: For those looking to take their sailing to the next level, we offer racing classes where you’ll learn the tactics, strategy, and techniques that make competitive sailing exciting. It’s a great way to push yourself and experience the thrill of racing with others.
- Intermediate Classes: Ready to take your sailing to the next level? Our intermediate classes are designed for sailors with basic skills who want to refine their technique, build confidence, and learn more advanced sailing maneuvers. Whether improving your boat handling, mastering more complex racing tactics, or navigating different weather conditions, our intermediate classes will challenge and support you as you grow.
- Inclusive Environment: We celebrate diversity and welcome sailors of all backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels. Everyone is encouraged to challenge themselves, have fun, and become part of a supportive, empowering community on the water.
- Hands-On Learning: Our classes are designed to be interactive and hands-on, ensuring you’re learning by doing, with plenty of time to practice and refine your skills on the water. You’ll leave feeling more confident in your ability to sail and race!
Beginner Learn to Sail Classes
Ready to set sail? Our Learn to Sail class is the perfect way to get started, whether you’re a beginner or have some experience. In this hands-on course, you’ll master the essential skills to sail safely and confidently.
Basic Boat Skills You’ll Learn:
- Steering & Tacking
- Parts of Boat
- Jibing & Trimming Sails
- Navigating Wind & Weather
- Docking & Launching
- Safety Procedures & Equipment Use
This class is ideal for anyone new to sailing. Join us and get ready to explore the water with confidence!
Register for Beginner Learn to Sail Classes
Intermediate/Advanced Sail Classes
Already a sailor and want to improve your sailing knowledge and perfect your skills?
With a mix of classroom discussion and on-the-water practice, this course is perfect for those looking to build their sailing knowledge and develop a more intuitive feel for the boat. Whether you’re interested in racing, cruising, or becoming a more confident sailor, the Intermediate Sailing Class is your next step toward mastering the art of sailing.
Prerequisite: Basic sailing knowledge or completion of a beginner sailing course.
Register for Intermediate/Advanced Sail Classes
Learn to Race Classes
Our Learn to Race Sailing Program is designed to teach sailors of all ages the essential skills and strategies for competitive racing, while fostering a love of the sport. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, the program focuses on improving technique, understanding race rules, and developing tactical skills.
- Racing Fundamentals: Learn boat handling, course navigation, and optimizing speed.
- Race Strategy & Tactics: Master race starts, pre-race preparation, and on-the-water tactics.
- Rules & Etiquette: Understand racing regulations, right-of-way, and sportsmanship.
- Crew Coordination: Develop teamwork and communication for efficient racing or solo skill development!
- On-the-Water Practice: Hands-on experience with real race conditions.
- Physical & Mental Focus: Build stamina and sharpen decision-making skills.
By the end of the program, participants will gain confidence in their racing abilities, ready to compete while developing a lifelong passion for sailing.
Register for Learn to Race Classes
Unique Course Offerings!!
The Night Sailing Course is designed to teach sailors the fundamentals of navigating and operating a sailboat after dark. This course is ideal for those who want to expand their sailing skills to include nighttime operations in a safe and controlled environment.
Women’s Sailing Clinic
This clinic is a supportive and empowering program designed to inspire and teach women of all ages the joy and skills of sailing. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced sailor, this clinic aims to foster a love for the sport in a fun and inclusive environment.
- Basic Sailing Skills: Learn the fundamentals of boat handling, sail trimming, and navigation in a relaxed, women-focused environment.
- Confidence Building: Empower women to take the helm, develop their sailing techniques, and build self-assurance on the water.
- Safety & Awareness: Gain important safety knowledge, including how to handle different weather conditions and emergency procedures.
- Teamwork & Leadership: Emphasize collaboration and communication, encouraging women to take on leadership roles in sailing.
- Community & Support: Connect with fellow women sailors of all levels, building a network of support and camaraderie.
This clinic aims to make sailing accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for women, while creating lasting friendships and a passion for the sport that transcends generations.
Class Session
- 6/18 Navigation: Learn the essentials of chart reading, plotting courses, understanding tides and currents, and using navigation tools. This class equips you with the knowledge to safely navigate on the water.
- 6/11 Rules of the Road: Master the fundamental rules and regulations that govern boating traffic, including right-of-way, signaling, and how to avoid collisions. This course ensures you can sail confidently and responsibly in any setting.
Our in-person class sessions are designed to mentally challenge sailors of all experience levels, providing a deep dive into the theory and strategy behind sailing. These classes focus on enhancing your decision-making, navigation, and problem-solving skills, ensuring you are not just physically prepared, but mentally sharp on the water.
We provide the boats for all small boats courses and learn to sail courses ! Enjoy the ability to show up and use our equipment for classes. However if taking Learn To Race or Night Sailing, these activities typically require you to have your own boat. However, if you don’t yet have one, feel free to email us at sailcamp@ecsail.org, and we can discuss other available options!
What To Bring?
Safety Gear:
- **USCG-Approved Life Jacket (Personal Flotation Device – PFD)
- Must be US Coast Guard-approved, fit well, and be appropriate for your weight and size.
- Whistle
- A safety whistle on a lanyard for emergency signaling (often required by the course).
Clothing & Footwear:
- Non-slip Sailing Shoes or Water Shoes
- Essential for good traction on wet, slippery surfaces. Avoid flip-flops or sandals without straps.
- Quick-Dry Clothing
- Avoid cotton; instead, choose moisture-wicking and breathable materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool. This includes a long-sleeve shirt, shorts, and a hat.
- Hat or Visor
- To protect your face and eyes from sun exposure.
- Sailing Gloves
- To protect your hands from rope burns and blisters when handling lines.
- Waterproof Jacket & Pants (Weather Dependent)
- A lightweight, breathable, and waterproof jacket to protect you from wind and rain.
- Sunglasses with Retainers
- UV protection for your eyes and a strap to prevent losing them overboard.
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Apply generously before the class starts and reapply throughout the day.
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Protect your lips from chapping and sunburn.
Personal Items:
- Water Bottle
- Staying hydrated is key, especially on sunny days.
- Towel
- A small, quick-drying towel for wiping off excess water or sweat.
- Snacks (Optional)
- High-energy snacks like granola bars or fruit to keep your energy up during breaks.
Miscellaneous:
- Notebook and Pen
- For taking notes during the class and keeping track of important tips or instructions.
- Seasickness Medication (if prone)
- If you’re worried about seasickness, it’s good to take some over-the-counter medication before your class.
- Change of Clothes
- Just in case you get wet or need a fresh set of clothes after the class.
Before your class, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the instructor for any additional specific requirements or recommendations based on the type of boat or conditions. Enjoy your sailing!
Ask About Financial Assistance! We aim to make sailing accessible and welcoming to all sailors and prospective sailors. For more information, please email sailcamp@ecsail.org.
Calendar
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June 2025
July 2025