Located on the stunning waters of Grand Traverse Bay, our sailing school offers top-tier American Sailing Association (ASA) instruction designed to help you become a confident and capable sailor. We are located in some of the best sailing and cruising waters on the Great Lakes. In Traverse City, we have access to countless coves, beaches, islands, harbor towns, and picturesque marinas to visit during a course or a charter. Whether you’re a beginner or advancing your skills, our hands-on training ensures you gain real-world sailing experience in a breathtaking, unforgettable setting.
Our experienced, ASA-certified instructors are passionate sailors dedicated to your success. We have been teaching sailing for over 30 years, and some of our instructors have been with us since the very beginning. With thousands of nautical miles under their belts—from offshore racing to yacht deliveries and extensive cruising—they bring real-world expertise to every lesson. They provide a safe, engaging, and personalized learning environment, ensuring every student feels confident behind the helm.
We have a fleet of 25 charter boats ranging from 31′ to 45′, including Marlow Hunters, Catalinas, and Jeanneaus. These vessels offer the perfect blend of stability, performance, and comfort, making them ideal for both learning and cruising. After you graduate from our award-winning ASA school, we will confidently send you and your crew out on one of them! We also offer the unique opportunity to stay aboard the boat you are learning on—there’s no better way to get to know a cruising yacht and experience life aboard than by spending a few nights on the vessel.
Grand Traverse Bay offers some of the best sailing conditions on the Great Lakes. With its sheltered waters, reliable winds, and stunning views, it’s an ideal destination for sailors of all levels. Explore beautiful islands, hidden coves, and picturesque marinas, all while learning or refining your sailing skills. The bay provides a variety of conditions—from gentle breezes perfect for beginners to stronger winds for more experienced sailors. Whether you’re cruising along the shoreline, visiting charming harbor towns, or anchoring in secluded spots, the natural beauty of Northern Michigan’s coastline adds to the excitement of every sail. This region’s ever-changing weather patterns also offer a great opportunity to master navigating in different conditions, making it an excellent place for both learning and adventure.
Our Flotilla Adventures provide an exciting opportunity for sailors to step outside their comfort zone while receiving support from our experienced team. You can charter one of our boats, book a cabin, or take a licensed captain during these group sailing events. Explore beautiful islands, secluded coves, and charming Northern Michigan harbor towns while developing your sailing skills. We sail together, anchor together, evaluate weather patterns, and assist each other in and out of unfamiliar marinas and slips. These flotilla events provide a unique way to meet fellow sailors, build confidence, and form lasting cruising partnerships.
Join us for a learning vacation in Traverse City, where you can experience hands-on training, stunning cruising grounds, and the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you dream of chartering a yacht, racing, coastal cruising, or ocean passagemaking, we’ll help you set sail with confidence!
