Education

The purpose of Sail Chicago is to teach you how to sail. We provide numerous opportunities for anyone in the Chicagoland area to get formal training sailing boats with class room instruction and on the water classes. We also offer numerous opportunities to get informal training throughout the season with our fun racing, tiller times and family picnics. We also provide community service to area youths through the Urban Youth Sailing Program and Lawrence Hall Youth Services Sailing Program.

On the Water Classes

Sail Chicago is a community-based, all-volunteer sailing program providing sailing instruction and affordable access to sailing on Lake Michigan for adults 18+ in the Chicago area.  We own and maintain a fleet of sailboats in the Chicago Harbor system.  We have classes for beginner through advanced sailors, as well as ongoing educational activities throughout the year.

Informal Instruction

Sail Chicago offers a number of opportunities for members to get on a sail boat with a seasoned instructor. This offers invaluable experience to anyone who wants to learn how to sail. You can supplement what you learn in class by signing up for Fun Racing, Tiller Time or by coming to one of our family picnics where you will meet plenty of salty dogs eager to spread their knowledge. 

Urban Youth Sailing Program

Sail Chicago’s Urban Youth Sailing Program and Association House have collaborated for over thirty years to provide targeted youth (identified by Association House) with the opportunity to experience the fun and excitement of sailing, while practicing cooperation, building confidence, realizing untapped potential, and expanding their horizons – all while learning a little about sailing, and discovering new ideas and activities.  

Lawrence Hall Youth Services Sailing Program

Sail Chicago has been proud to support the Lawrence Hall Youth Services Sailing Program since 1996. Lawrence Hall Youth Services is committed to helping at-risk children in Chicago to redefine the paths of their own futures. They treat, educate and provide homes for these under-privileged children, and work to provide programs to set them on the path to become proud, productive participants in society.  Sail Chicago volunteer Skippers and crew provide opportunities for these youth, enabling these young people to experience the joys and exhilaration of sailing on Lake Michigan.