Articles

Unlock Trouble-Free Sailing: Expert Insights from Jan Athenstadt and Nigel Calder on Boat Maintenance Essentials

Dive into the essentials of boat maintenance with American Sailing's upcoming online class hosts and experts Jan Athenstadt and Nigel Calder. Learn from their vast experience in engine maintenance and electrical systems while gaining practical advice and tips based on firsthand accounts.

Mastering The Swell Bridle: One Of The Best Kept Secrets For A Rolly Anchorage

Learn how to tackle the challenge of rolly anchorages with this comprehensive guide. Understand the causes, employ a swell bridle effectively, and ensure a peaceful night's rest aboard your vessel amidst unpredictable seas.

January 2024 Sailor of the Month: Gabriele Grant

This month we were inspired by Gabriele Grant's story and she is our January 2024 Sailor of the Month. Gabriele is one of our younger American Sailing certified sailors — but has quite a story to tell already. At age 18 she has already been sailing for 7 years, and has a cohort of peers who share much of her journey. It's exciting to see the next generation of sailors enjoying the sport and taking their education and skill development seriously while developing life-long relationships from their shared memories on the water. Gabriele's favorite place to sail is New York Harbor, from her base at the Manhattan Yacht Club in Liberty Landing Marina, where she has studied with Manhattan Sailing School.

December 2023 Sailor of the Month: Howard Clayman

This month we were inspired by Howard Clayman's story and he is our December 2023 Sailor of the Month. This story takes us to Herzliya, Israel, where Howard runs the Blue Wave-Tashoot Sailing Academy. It's a unique Sailor of the Month story — we take a look at how current events have impacted the day-to-day, as well as, of course, talking sailing stories from weathering harrowing storms to racing in the Cowes Week regatta. We've spoken with Howard before, and we're excited to catch back up with him and see that his sails are still full and new sailors are cruising the beautiful Mediterranean waters under his leadership every day.

Navigating Your First Charter: Essential Tips from ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising Course

When you complete ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising course, you will possess a wealth of knowledge about sailing, and you will have amassed a good deal of experience.  Along with your ASA certification, you will be welcomed as a member of any crew, and you will feel more comfortable any time you are on a sailboat — or any boat.

Sailing Trivia

So you are at a dinner party, and it comes time for some trivia. Are you prepared with some sailing facts that would stump the competition?  Are you intrigued by tidbits of information that might spark a conversation? Take a look at some sailing facts that might get you the win on trivia night. 

The Best Advice You Can Get About Sailing

Sailing can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it requires skill, knowledge, and attention to safety. From understanding windds and tides to learning to communicate with crew, here are some common pieces of advice for sailors.

Featured Instructor: Sailing Maestro — Unveiling the Stories and Passion of Captain Ricardo Barradas

Ricardo Barradas, the seasoned sailing instructor at Atlantic Explorers in Portugal, stands against the backdrop of the vast Atlantic, his eyes reflecting the depth of his maritime experiences. More than just a guide on the water, he is a storyteller of the sea, weaving tales of adventure, friendship, and the joy of sailing.

How To Plan A Short Sailing Cruise

As you gain sailing experience and expand on your sailing education, you will have the desire to get to that next level. Your growing confidence and knowledge now have you set to plan a sailing vacation. Planning a 7-day bareboat charter requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing vacation. 

Charting a Course for Adventure: Sailing the Enchanting Algarve with Atlantic Explorers

Embarking on a sailing adventure with Atlantic Explorers in the enchanting Algarve region of Portugal is more than just a lesson in navigation—it's a journey into the heart of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a commitment to sustainable travel — and sailing with them could help you check off a few boxes on your bucket list.

Gear Guide for Beginner Sailors and Enthusiasts

If you're just starting out with sailing, having the right gear is essential. Here's a detailed guide to help you and your family select the best sailing gear to start your sailing adventures. Each recommendation comes with possible uses and the type of conditions they are suitable for, catering to both novice sailors and sailing enthusiasts.

The Echo 14-Day Course With Sailing Caribbean: Young Adult Sailing Adventure

American Sailing School Sail Caribbean has been sending young people on ocean adventures for over 40 years.  They have perfected the art of transformation.  When a young adult leaves the dock for the first time they are a blank canvas, a moldable piece of clay. When they return to the home base they have gained leadership skills, social skills, seamanship, and the art of self-reliance. 

November 2023 Sailor of the Month: Keith Allman

This month we were inspired by Keith Allman's story and he is our November Sailor of the Month. Keith resides in New York and his home port is Liberty Harbor, New Jersey. Keith has been sailing for over 25 years, and most recently he has spent the past few years chartering with friends and credits his education from American Sailing with the confidence and knowledge to go out and make beautiful memories in idyllic destinations. We love seeing how sailing can add so much vibrance to a vacation with people you enjoy.

Why Join a Boat Club?

As a boat owner who utilizes his sailboat like a front porch, commuter vehicle, and the lobby of a hotel, I wanted to understand the allure of joining a boat club. American Sailing has over 20 sailing schools that are part of the SailTime network of boat clubs, so I went right to the source to get a better idea about the advantages of joining a boat club like SailTime.

Secrets from Sailing High Above the Arctic Circle

Captain Stacey Brooks tells her story of sailing north of the Arctic Circle through the cold, foggy, beautiful fjords of Norway.

Experiencing Greece on an American Sailing Flotilla

Greece's Ionian islands offer a tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and experiences that enrich your soul and rejuvenate your spirit. From the vibrant Corfu Town to the tranquil bays of Syvota, the elegance of Gaios, the vividness of Parga, and the serenity of Mpenitses, this sailing odyssey is your own Greek epic that influencers on social media will not replicate. 

Boats, Sailing, and Good Books

One of the great pleasures in the life of a sailor is the ability to sit in a quiet cove on the deck of your boat, alone with your thoughts and a good book.  Add a hot cup of coffee on a cool morning, and things cannot get any better. Here's a list of books with pages you can get lost in.

8 Common Misconceptions about Sailing

Sailing is a popular and enjoyable activity, but it can also be surrounded by various misconceptions. Eight common misconceptions about sailing are set straight in this article — let us steer you back on course!