Blockade Runner Sailing School

The perfect inclusive sailing package awaits! Stay at the Blockade Runner Hotel, walk down to our private Soundside docks, and begin your sailing experience aboard our fleet of J/22s.

The perfect inclusive sailing package awaits! Stay at the Blockade Runner Hotel, walk down to our private Soundside docks, and begin your sailing experience aboard our fleet of J/22s. Our Soundside offers calm waters and steady sea breezes, ideal for both beginner and intermediate sailing instruction. A complete compliment of sailing conditions to navigate surround the resort hotel which offer the sailor experience with day marks, tides, and other coastal variations. The Blockade Runner Soundside beach and docks house our fleet of J/22’s, Hobie Waves, and two large cruising keelboats: Allana and Maidona.

The Blockade Runner Sailing School is conveniently located only 20 minutes from Interstate 40 and Wilmington NC International Airport (ILM). Complimentary shuttle to and from the airport is available.

Our Student/Instructor ratio never exceeds a 4 to 1. This ensures hands-on training for open water sailing, docking, anchoring, and much more.

This ocean side resort hotel includes award-winning cuisine, seaside gardens, and upscale decor in the heart of Wrightsville Beach. Historic Wilmington, minutes away, provides endless opportunities for dining, nightlife, entertainment and cultural interests that attract singles, couples and families. Other activities onsite include kayak or paddleboard eco-tours, surfing instruction, and scenic cruises.

Certifications

101

Keelboat Sailing 1

Welcome aboard to ASA 101, the gateway to your sailing adventure! This foundational course sets the stage for mastering the art of sailing

103 Coastal Cruising

Welcome to ASA 103 Coastal Cruising, where you take your sailing skills to the next level!

105 Coastal Navigation

ASA 105 Coastal Navigation is essential for anyone ready to move beyond day sailing and take command of extended trips along the coast.

Amenities

ASA 'Challenges'Couples CoursesDay Sail Charters (public)Private CoursesRacing CoursesSail Trim CoursesSailboat CruisesSpinnaker CoursesSunset CruisesTeam Building CoursesWeekday CoursesWeekend CoursesWomen Only Courses

INITIATIVES

10% Discount

Veterans Program

At American Sailing we recognize the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served or are serving in our country’s armed forces. As a token of our appreciation, and our way of saying thank you, we invite veterans and active military personnel to share our passion for sailing by offering a discount on our ASA 101 Keelboat 1 sailing course.

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Joshua

I just did their intro (ASA101) sailing course and it was great! The staff is super cool and low pressure, so even if you don’t know what you’re doing you’ll never feel like an idiot. I definitely learned a ton and plan on returning.

Robin

Just finished the 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing Certification at Blockade Runner Sailing School. Captain Matty is an awesome teacher and the J/22 a perfect boat to learn to sail on. Highly recommend for anyone interested in learning to sail.

Anna

Beautiful place to sail, protected bay or open ocean. Helpful, personalized instruction. Highly recommended for those wanting to try out sailing or looking to improve their skills.

Jackie

I cannot say enough positive things about the Discovery Sailing experience. Captain Matty is extremely knowledgeable and professional. As an instructor he tailored the three hours to my current sailing skills and future goals.

Travis

Great way to learn sailing. Matty was an excellent instructor, he professionally explains things while making it fun and enjoyable both dockside and in the water.