Summer Sailing Guide

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

Washington Sailing Marina

Along the George Washington Parkway, this Alexandria sailing location offers boat rentals, lessons, and is also home to NoVA sailing clubs. You can sail up a storm here and enjoy the wind on your face coming at you from every direction. You’ll never see the sea the same way again. // 1 Marina Dr. at Daingerfield Island, Alexandria; 703-548-9027

Mariner Sailing School at Belle Haven Marina

Right off of the GW Parkway, this popular NoVA sailing destination sets you out on the Potomac River right near Old Town. Friendly staff and eager instructors make the experience at Mariner Sailing School a truly memorable experience. // 6401 George Washington Memorial Pkwy., Alexandria, 703-768-0018

Northern Virginia Sailing School

Nestled alongside the Potomac River in Prince William County, take sailing classes and get certified in a variety of boat crafts. Once you’ve mastered the basics, rent a variety of boats and sail out to local waters. // 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge; 571-331-0901

WASHINGTON, DC

District Wharf

DC’s newest attraction is located right alongside the Potomac River. In addition to various water sports like kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding, enjoy high-end dining options, or check out a show at The Anthem, DC’s brand-new concert venue. // 735 Water St. SW, Washington, DC

Pentagon Sailing Club at the Capital Cove Marina

This sailing volunteer association offers classroom training, recreational sailing, and water sailing instructions. Take your theoretical knowledge and turn it into practical nautical instincts instilled by the wonderful sailing instructors here at the Pentagon Sailing Club. // 202-681-4772

DC Sail

This community sailing program is on a mission to promote recreational and competitive sailing programs in the area for both youth and adults. DC Sail’s message to improve the sailing community is something you’ll be thinking about as an added perk to your once-in-a-blue-moon sailing experience that will turn into a habitual summer family tradition. // 600 Water St. SW, Washington, DC; 202-547-1250

MARYLAND

National Harbor 

You’ll find enough activities to spend an entire day at the harbor whether it be paddleboarding, kayaking, or pedal boarding. If you get tired, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants along the harbor or shop at the various retail locations around the immediate area. // 165 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD

The Sailing Academy

On the Chesapeake Bay, this sailing school is only 20 minutes from the Beltway and offers the full sailing experience in a private or group setting. The location of this school takes the Sailing experience to the next frontier by exploring a body of water considerably larger than the Potomac. // 411 Deale Rd., Tracy’s Landing, MD; 410-867-7177 

Annapolis Sailing School

Here, a variety of skill levels are welcome to learn the art of sailing in beautiful Annapolis Bay. They also offer courses to reach ASA certification. Annapolis Sailing School will definitely inspire you to explore the world of sailing much more seriously than you had previously imagined. // 7001 Bembe Beach Rd., Annapolis, MD; 410-267-7205

Sail Time

Your boat is ready when you are at this Annapolis school recognized with several awards by the ASA. Explore your most curious nautical side at Sail Time and you’ll find yourself with a memory that’ll last a lifetime and a thirst to make it a tradition. Never underestimate the power of a trusty steed. // 105 Eastern Ave., Annapolis, MD; 443-376-7245

Schooner Woodwind

Right in the center of “America’s Sailing Capital,” sail the Chesapeake Bay on a plethora of cruise options that vary from short, public excursions to private, intimate adventures. Feeling spirited? Partake in team building exercises while learning how to sail alongside crew members. // 80 Compromise St., Annapolis, MD; 410-263-7837

Sail Solomons

With awards from the American Sailing Association, engage in sailing lessons from esteemed professionals on high-end Catalina daysailers and Beneteau cruising boats. Once you’ve mastered the basics in class, join other sailing enthusiasts in sailing club activities. // 245 C St., Solomons, MD; 410-326-4917

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