Founded in 1999, Reef Runner Sailing School is an American Sailing certified and accredited school based in Friendship, Maine, a beautiful working waterfront town in the heart of Midcoast Maine. Whether this is your first time on a sailboat or you’re ready to earn your bareboat certification, we offer a complete pathway from beginner to advanced sailor.
Our courses follow the proven American Sailing curriculum, ranging from ASA 101 Basic Keelboat all the way through ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Cruising, with catamaran endorsements and specialty courses also available. We offer both standalone classes and popular multi-day combo packages, including our 7-day live-aboard Basic & Bareboat Combo — one of the most immersive ways to earn three ASA certifications in a single week. All ASA certifications earned here are recognized globally by bareboat charter companies worldwide.
One thing that sets Reef Runner Sailing apart is our commitment to small class sizes. We typically limit classes to just 2–4 students, which means you’ll spend significantly more time at the helm than you would in a larger school setting. You learn by doing, not by watching.
Our primary teaching boat, Atlas, is a Pearson 31-2, a fully equipped monohull sailboat. S/V Atlas is forgiving for beginners yet responsive enough to develop real skills.
Our lead instructor and owner, Captain Jeremy, has been recognized as an ASA Outstanding Instructor of the Year four consecutive years. He brings patience, deep expertise, and a genuine passion for teaching that keeps students coming back.
Sailing in Midcoast Maine means real conditions — tidal currents, open coastal waters, and stunning scenery. It’s the perfect classroom.
