Sailing Instruction

Learn to sail with the finest Sailing Instruction in Newport, RI. Our Sailing School offers courses for all levels of experience, and our curriculum is designed to provide the ultimate sailing instruction in the shortest period of time. 

About Our Sailing Lessons

Sailing Lessons depart from the beautiful Goat Island Marina in Downtown Newport, RI next to Newport Harbor Island Resort.


Newport Sailing School has been a proud local leader in sailing instruction since 1971. With our experience to guide us, we have created successful courses tailored to various levels of experience to allow everyone to experience the thrill of sailing. Whether you are a beginner or have well-established sailing skills, our Sailing School will introduce you to the art of pure sailing and help you experience Newport, RI like a true local. We are currently offering introductory courses, an ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Certification course, an intermediate course, and an advanced course. 

Introduction Courses

Sailing Instructions include: Nomenclature, Points of Sailing, Rules of the Road, Seamanship, Proper Tacking Procedure, Gybing-quickest and safest method, Proper Landing Procedure, Water Safety, Essential Knot Tying, Essential Equipment, Rigging, Tides, Man-over-board Drills, Heaving To, Leaving Dock or Mooring, Sailing a prescribed course.

Intro Sailing Course (75 minutes)

75 Minute On Water Session

Rate: $100*/pp

Intro Sailing Course (5 Hours) 

1 Hour Dockside Classroom, 4 Hour On Water Session

Rate: $495*/pp

ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Certification Course

ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Certification
15 hours (3 days)

Offered Friday-Sunday, 8am-1pm

Rate: $1395*/pp, max 4 people

Book Private Tour

Intermediate Course

Sailing Instructions include: Review of Basic Skills, Basic Tuning, Tidal Flow, Sail Controls, Sail Shape, traveler, Sail Set and Trim, Weight Distribution, Reefing, Backstay Adjustment, Landings, Wind Shifts.

Intermediate Course (1 Day) 

1-Hour Dockside Classroom, 4-Hour On-Water Session

Rate: $495*/pp max 4 people

Non-Refundable Policy: No refunds, no exchanges, no exclusions. Rain checks are issued due to severe or inclement weather based upon Newport Sailing School and Tours' discretion on the day of the scheduled tour.


  • Discount for children under 12
  • Gratuity to Instructor Customary
  • Private Lessons available upon request
Essentials for Sailing Lessons:
  • Basic sailing manual ($25)
  • Boating/no-skid sole shoes
  • Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat/visor, rain gear
  • Beverages/snacks to bring aboard

Sailing Instruction