Adult Programs
We have options for everyone - from first time sailor to confident skippers.
Our adult programs are designed to meet sailors where they are, whether you’re stepping onto a sailboat for the first time or looking to build confidence and independence on the water.
We offer an Adult Beginner program, a Women’s Beginner program, and a Women’s Sailing Club for intermediate and advanced sailors. Each program focuses on skill development, confidence, and enjoying time on the water in a supportive, community-oriented environment.
For sailors who are qualified to sail independently, our Boat Usage program provides access to our fleet without an instructor on board. Private lessons are also available for those looking for one-on-one instruction tailored to individual goals.
We invite you to explore the course descriptions below and find the option that best fits your experience and interests. We look forward to getting you on the water and under sail!
March 9th, 2026 at 7:00 AM
Beginner Classes
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Coed Beginner Course
Tuesday and Thursdays 4:00-6:30pm
Six classes cover the skills listed below and aim to qualify each student to sail (skipper) a boat independently. We will offer two separate sessions this summer one in July and one in August(specific dates are shown on the registration page). Each class will begin with a brief classroom session before going out on the water with one instructor and 2-3 students per boat. Space is limited and only reserved once we receive your registration with payment.
Participants who pass the class are welcome to join the open boat usage program for the remainder of the season. The added fee for open boat usage will be based on a prorated amount dependent on date of successful compleation of the class.
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Womens Beginner Sailing Course
Wednesdays 4:00-6:30pm
Six classes cover the skills listed below and aim to qualify each student to sail (skipper) a boat independently. Each meeting will begin with a brief classroom session before going out on the water with one instructor and 2-3 students per boat. Space is limited and only reserved once we receive your registration with payment.
Participants who pass the class are welcome to join the open boat usage program for the remainder of the season. The added fee for open boat usage will be based on a prorated amount dependent on date of successful compleation of the class.
Skills covered in beginner classes
Rig the boat
Leaving the mooring
Sail all points of sail with proper sail trim
Execute tacking turns
Avoid unplanned jibes
Execute a controlled jibe
Execute a man overboard rescue - stop in open water and then resume sailing
A controlled return to the mooring
Secure the boat to mooring
De-rig the boat
Know the basic knots - stopper, figure eight, cleat hitch, square knot, and, most importantly, the bowline
Identify designated sail area on a chart and aids to navigation
Private Lessons and Club Sailing
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Monday Women’s Sailing Club
Mondays 4:00 - 6:30 pm
This club is for women ages 18 and up, it is designed for returning sailors and or intermediate new members. It is a relaxed way for women to get out sailing together and share their knowledge with others. A sailing center instructor will be on hand to lend guidance and operate a safety chase boat. A sailing center instructor is available to provide guidance and ensure safe operation, though instruction is not provided onboard each boat.
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Private Sailing Lessons
Monday - Friday 10:00 am and 1:00 pm
Private lessons can be scheduled in advance by contacting our office by email at info@mdisailing.org. We only schedule private lessons within two weeks prior to the lesson date. Lessons are $90/hour for 1 person or $125/hour for 2 people. Larger (more than two people) private group lesson rates are available on a sliding scale. The standard private lesson lasts for 2 1/2 to 3 hours and our two daily start times are 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. The view of Mount Desert Island from the water might distract you but we will keep you on course.
Boat Usage Membership
Sailboat usage is available to qualified sailors through membership to our boat usage program. Boat usage is available as an add-on for qualified sailors following completion of a group class or private lesson.
If you're interested in becoming a member of our boat usage program please visit the boat usage page of our website linked below.