San Francisco Bay Area Sailing Resources
- Kira Britt
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
Download the Clickable PDF!
!

How to Get Involved in your Local Sailing Community
Learn all you can, from everyone you can. Beginner sailing classes and chatting with experienced sailors are the fastest ways to grow. Stay curious, ask questions, and say "yes" to time on the water — every sail is a chance to learn.
Attend a presentation by a professional sailor. Yacht clubs often host talks by racers, cruisers, and sailing pros that are packed with real-world insight. These events are usually open to the public and great for networking and inspiration.
Attend women's sailing seminars and classes. Women-led sailing events offer hands-on learning and confidence-building in a supportive environment. Topics cover everything from docking to race strategy and offshore prep.
Join an all-women’s sailing class. These classes provide a comfortable space to build skills like sail trim, boat handling, and navigation. You’ll learn alongside supportive peers and gain confidence fast.
Build your own crew list. Start a sailing network by connecting with friends and other sailors looking to crew. A simple group chat can lead to regular sails and lifelong sailing buddies.
Join a yacht club or community sailing center. Membership opens doors to races, cruises, mentorship, and new friendships. Being part of the community keeps you in the loop and out on the water.
Volunteer at local sailing events. Regattas and clubs always need volunteers, and it’s a great way to meet active sailors. You’ll learn event logistics and often get invited aboard in the process.
Join a club that offers charters. Charter clubs provide affordable access to boats and community events. From casual races to social sails, they’re perfect for building experience and friendships.
Attend an all-women’s sailing retreat. Retreats combine skill-building, adventure, and deep connection with fellow women sailors. You’ll explore stunning places, gain hands-on experience, and return inspired.
This list is based on a condensed article I produced for Dockwa in May of 2025. Full Article here.
Running List of Local Services and Resources:
Women's Sailing Seminar
Cal Sailing Club - Berkeley
Dinghy and Keelboat Sailing
Alameda Community Sailing Center
Dinghy Sailing
Sausalito Boat Show
3rd Annual
Spaulding Marine Center
Mariner and Community Education
Sømand Sailwear
Sailing gear for women by women
Latitude 38
News and Crew List
Yacht Racing Association
Competitive Racing in N. CA
Pacific Inter Club Yacht Association
Club for Clubs & Events
National Sailing Services
BoatUS
Towing and Safety
Sail America
Growing sailing in the US
Women Who Sail (WWS)
National Organization w/ SF Bay Chapter
The Magenta Project
Mentorship
Women’s Sailing Association
National Organization
www.womensailing.o
USCG Recreational Boating
Safety Resources
CA Boater Card
Need one to privately operate a vessel
NOAA
Weather Resources
Sailing Services to Sharpen Your Skills and Get Certified
American Sailing
Certifications, Sailing Lessons Online
US Sailing & Safety at Sea
Certification, Racing, Safety
Animated Knots
Learn Your knots!
Sailing Schools in San Francisco
Modern Sailing School and Club
Wind & Women - Lessons & Race Team
Yacht Clubs in San Francisco/Bay Area
Corinthian Yacht Club
Women's Sailing Seminar
Comments