Summer Sailing Guide
From beginner sailing lessons to scenic cruises along the Potomac and Chesapeake Bay, the Washington, D.C. region offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. Whether you're looking to take your first sailing class or join a local sailing community, there are options for every level of experience.
These sailing schools, marinas, and waterfront destinations provide training, rentals, and recreational experiences across Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
Northern Virginia
Washington Sailing Marina
Located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Alexandria, this marina is a popular hub for sailing enthusiasts. Visitors can rent boats, take lessons, or join local sailing clubs while enjoying direct access to the Potomac River.
Location: 1 Marina Dr. at Daingerfield Island, Alexandria
Phone: 703-548-9027
Belle Haven Marina – Mariner Sailing School
Situated near Old Town Alexandria, this sailing school offers hands-on instruction and guided experiences on the Potomac River. Its location makes it especially convenient for both beginners and recreational sailors.
Location: 6401 George Washington Memorial Pkwy., Alexandria
Phone: 703-768-0018
Northern Virginia Sailing School
Located in Prince William County, this sailing school provides structured courses and certification programs. Students can progress from basic instruction to boat rentals and independent sailing experiences on nearby waterways.
Location: 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge
Phone: 571-331-0901
Washington, D.C.
District Wharf
This waterfront district along the Potomac River combines recreation, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating activities, as well as concerts and restaurants in a modern urban setting.
Location: 735 Water St. SW, Washington, D.C.
Pentagon Sailing Club – Capital Cove Marina
A volunteer-run sailing organization offering classroom instruction and on-water training. The club focuses on developing practical sailing skills through hands-on experience and community engagement.
Phone: 202-681-4772
DC Sail
This nonprofit sailing program promotes access to sailing for both youth and adults in the region. In addition to recreational sailing, it offers educational programs and community-focused activities designed to grow local interest in the sport.
Location: 600 Water St. SW, Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-547-1250
Maryland
National Harbor
A waterfront destination on the Potomac River offering a wide range of activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, dining, and shopping. The area serves as both a recreational hub and entertainment district.
Location: 165 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD
The Sailing Academy
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, this sailing school provides structured lessons for individuals and groups. Its open-water setting allows students to gain experience on larger and more dynamic waters than the Potomac.
Location: 411 Deale Rd., Tracy’s Landing, MD
Phone: 410-867-7177
Annapolis Sailing School
One of the region’s well-known sailing institutions, this school offers courses for all experience levels, including certification programs. Training takes place in the heart of Annapolis, a historic sailing destination.
Location: 7001 Bembe Beach Rd., Annapolis, MD
Phone: 410-267-7205
Sail Time Annapolis
This award-winning sailing program provides members access to boats and structured training experiences. Participants can build sailing confidence through both instruction and hands-on practice.
Location: 105 Eastern Ave., Annapolis, MD
Phone: 443-376-7245
Schooner Woodwind
Offering sailing cruises on the Chesapeake Bay, this experience-based program allows guests to join crewed voyages ranging from short excursions to private sailing trips.
Location: 80 Compromise St., Annapolis, MD
Phone: 410-263-7837
Sail Solomons
A sailing school and club offering instruction on modern cruising boats. Students can progress from beginner lessons to participation in organized sailing activities.
Location: 245 C St., Solomons, MD
Phone: 410-326-4917