Absolutely not! She Sails welcomes everyone, whether you’ve never set foot on a boat or have some experience under your belt. We aim to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where you can learn at your own pace. From the basics of tying knots to confidently steering a sailboat, we’ll guide you through every step.

If you’re eager to try something new, we’re here to help you set sail!

What safety steps does She Sails take for students?

At She Sails, your safety is our top priority. Here are some of the measures we take to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

- Qualified Instructor: All lessons are led by an experienced instructor who is certified in sailing and first aid. We also file our sailing plan with a person ashore (which all sailors should do).

- Safety Gear: We provide life jackets and any other necessary safety equipment, ensuring that everything meets current safety standards.

- Weather Monitoring: We keep a close eye on weather conditions and only head out when it’s safe to do so.

- Emergency Preparedness: Each lesson begins with a safety briefing covering basic procedures and what to do in an emergency.

- Modern Equipment: Our boat is well-maintained and regularly inspected for safety. Transport Canada has certain items that must always be aboard sailing vessels and we are sure to comply, and have extra.

- Customized Learning: We tailor lessons to match your comfort level and abilities, creating a supportive environment for learning.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, you can trust that we prioritize your safety every step of the way.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

Yes, here’s a checklist of essentials to ensure you’re comfortable and prepared:

- Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is important! Bring enough for the duration of your lesson.

- Weather-Appropriate Layers: The weather can change quickly on the water, so bring lots of layers, including a waterproof jacket.

- White-Soled Shoes: Soft, non-marking shoes help keep the deck clean and provide good grip.

- Gloves: Sailing gloves or any snug-fitting gloves can protect your hands from ropes and cold weather.

- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, the sun reflects off the water, so UV protection is key.

- Hat or Beanie: A sun hat for warm days or a beanie for colder weather keeps you comfortable.

- Personal Medications: If you have any medications you might need (e.g., for allergies or seasickness), be sure to bring them.

- Dry Bag: A small waterproof bag is great for keeping phones, wallets, or other personal items safe and dry.

If you have any questions about what to bring or if you’re unsure, feel free to reach out before your lesson—we’re happy to help!

What will our lesson look like?

Your lesson will be a mix of hands-on practice and guided learning, tailored to your experience level and goals. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Pre-Sail Welcome and Briefing: We’ll meet at the dock, go over the plan for the day, and cover key safety instructions. This is also a great time to ask any questions you have.

2. Getting to Know the Boat: You’ll learn about the different parts of the boat and their functions, so you’re familiar with the basics before we set sail.

3. Casting Off: Once ready, we’ll head out onto the water. You’ll practice essential skills like steering, trimming sails, and working with the wind.

4. Hands-On Learning: Depending on your level, we might focus on tacking and gybing, docking, or learning to read the wind and weather. Everything is taught step by step, so you can learn at your own pace.

5. Enjoying the Experience: There’s always time to soak in the beauty of being out on the water. Sailing isn’t just about learning—it’s about connecting with the wind, waves, and yourself.

6. Debrief and Wrap-Up: After we return to the dock, we’ll debrief, talk about what you learned, and discuss next steps if you’d like to continue your sailing journey.

Every lesson is designed to be fun, empowering, and a step toward building your confidence on the water!

Do you teach male students?

Yes, we do! We ensure classes are thoughtfully structured, so male students are paired with others only when booking together as a pair/group.