Knotty by Nature: Sailing for Beginners
In hands-on class, you’ll learn the basics of sailing, including:
- Vocabulary: The names of parts of the boat and the terms for what you do with them;
- Points of Sail: How you position the sails relative to the wind;
- Safety: Basic rules re: rights of way, avoiding scurvy, and man overboard;
- Local Sailing Clubs: If you’re interested in learning more, we’ll tell you who to contact.
Renting a Flying Scot sailboat, which holds six people, costs $60 and will be divided among the crew of each boat. Please bring cash, sunblock, water and sunglasses, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Children over the age of 8 are welcome if accompanied by a parent.
Location
Mariner Sailing School at Belle Haven Marina
6401 George Washington Memorial Parkway
Alexandria,
VA
The marina is just south of Alexandria. GPS directions might incorrectly take you to Arlington. Please note that this is NOT the Airport Marina!
Past event
Instructor
Sarah Meharg grew up in Plymouth, Mass., and began her sailing career at age 8. She continued throughout high school, racing Lasers and 420s at regattas in the Cape Cod area. Now a social worker, Sarah was previously the director of DC Sail, where she trained volunteer instructors and took part in developing the curriculum for beginner sailors. Sarah has also raced with the Daingerfield Island Sailing Club and has volunteered as an instructor with the Special Olympics of Virginia.