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Farewell and Fair Winds, Jimmy Buffett

The American Sailing crew was saddened along with the rest of the world to see a legend sail on from this life this past Friday. We tip our hats to the innumerable contributions Jimmy Buffett made to help make the cruising life what it is. He was a true embodiment of the spirit of freedom, friendship, and good times so many have come to know as the setting in which the sailing life is best lived.

Barcolana – The Biggest Sailing Race Around

The Barcolana is an annual sailing event and regatta in the Gulf of Trieste, located in the northeastern part of the Adriatic Sea. It is one of the largest and most famous sailing races in Europe and the world. Held during the first weekend of October, the regatta attracts thousands of participants and spectators, making it a significant cultural and sporting event in the region.

August 2023 Sailor of the Month: Randy Stafford

American Sailing's August 2023 Sailor of the Month is Randy Stafford from Ken Caryl, CO. For the past twelve years Randy has been cruising through ASA certifications and online classes on the way to realizing his sailing dreams.

How to Manage Trash Aboard

We at Sailors for the Sea get asked a lot about how to deal with trash, and what’s “ok” to throw overboard. And the simple answer is, in a perfect world… nothing. That banana peel, glass jar, or soda can take a lot longer to biodegrade in the marine environment than you might think.

The Cost (and Joys) of Owning a Boat

Some of the best days in life are spent on a boat — despite what the old cliche tells us. Part of happy boat ownership includes accurately estimating the costs, and we detail these here so you can step aboard the experience with a solid plan for your boat and your peace of mind.

How to Start a Sailing Race Effectively

Starting to race can be a daunting experience for any sailor. In fact, the start itself can be the most pulse-raising part of the race. Bill Gladstone offers tips on lowering the heart rate while making the most of this exciting aspect of sailing.

Learning to Sail with Vagabonde Adventures: Embark on a Bahamas Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable Bahamas adventure with American Sailing School Vagabonde Adventures, in the sun-kissed Abaco Islands. Your instructors are Jack Karger, Eta Covo, and Hugo Picard — a youthful and yet widely experienced crew sure to help you create unforgettable memories and sailing skills to last you a lifetime.

Featured Instructor: Jack Karger, The Adventurous Sailor Behind Vagabonde Adventures

Meet Jack Karger, the adventurous sailor behind Vagabonde Adventures. Our latest featured instructor, Jack believes sailing is truly for everyone and a lifelong pursuit of learning and discovery. Capture the spirit of sailing as you read of Jack's adventures.

How to Make the Most of This Year’s Annapolis Sailboat Show

Soak up all Annapolis has to offer at this year's Sailboat Show. American Sailing is offering two can't-miss seminars in the Sailing Capital of the U.S. While you're in town, soak up the night life, network with other sailors, and catch up on the latest in sailing technology.

Chris Bedford: Empowering Sailors with Precision Marine Weather Forecasts

Chris Bedford is the ultimate marine weather coach, teaching sailors to turn the superficial data served by apps into true weather wisdom, helping them make smart decisions at sea. Chris is a veteran of 10 America's Cup cycles, among many other highlights in his career.

July 2023 Sailor of the Month: Christopher Dang

American Sailing's July 2023 Sailor of the Month is Christopher Dang from San Francisco, CA. He recently moved to the Bay area and quickly adopted sailing as a central part of his lifestyle. Later this year he will compete in the Clipper Race, and we're excited to keep up with his adventures!

Featured School: Go Sail Flathead Lake

Go Sail Flathead Lake offers American Sailing certifications in Montana at the gateway to Glacier National Park. Students can earn ASA 101, 103, and 104 on the school's fleet of comfortable and fun monohulls ranging from 22 to 33 feet.

Do I Need An IPC?

If you plan to charter a yacht in Europe, the International Proficiency Certificate offers US-based sailors an equivalent to the ICC, which is a requirement by charter companies. Apply online in minutes and set your sights on a Mediterranean dream vacation!

Women on the Water: Eta Covo

Eta Covo is a woman on the water helping people realize their sailing dreams. From her youth she grew up sailing on her family's yacht in the Croatian Islands and learned how to turn that passion into her living. Catch the wind of her inspiration and set sail with Vagabonde!

40 Sailing Tips

Everytime a sailor gets on the water, there are certain steps that must be taken. Whether it's your first sail or the 400th sail, these tips will keep you smart, safe, and ready to have a great day sailing. In celebration of 40 years of educating the world's sailors.

How to Prep for ASA 101

It's exciting when you still have your first sailing class ahead of you on the calendar! Here are a few steps you can take to prepare for ASA 101, including reading the textbook, playing with the sailing app, studying vocabulary, and even, yes - go sailing!

Learn to Race: Sailing Racing Terms

Learning to race is a key part of becoming a solid sailor, and the first step is learning the language. Racing terms are an added layer to an already complex sailing language, so we're offering a condensed primer here to help you to the start line.

July Is National Learn To Sail Month

July is National Learn to Sail month, and at American Sailing, we believe sailing is for everyone. We've made it our mission to lower the barrier to entry as much as possible for women, veterans, and everyone in between to participate in this adventurous, beautiful, life-changing sport.