HSA Sailing School
At HSA, learning to sail has always been rooted in community. What began with experienced sailors teaching kids in home-built boats has grown into a full program led by certified volunteers. Today, HSA offers Adult Beginner and Intermediate classes each summer and Halifax Area Youth Sailing Foundation runs summer camps and a year-round team for youth.
Whether you're brand new or ready to build on your experience, our US Sailing-certified instructors are here to help you gain confidence on the water.
Ready to set sail? Class details and registration links are just below.
Adult Sunfish Class - Beginner
Our beginner sailing class follows the US Sailing Learn Sailing Right! curriculum and is taught on fun, easy-to-handle Sunfish sailboats. Led by certified instructors, this hands-on course covers everything from rigging and safety to basic maneuvers and sail trim. It's the perfect way to start your sailing journey with confidence.
Adult Capri Class - Intermediate
Our intermediate class builds on the Learn Sailing Right! Intermediate curriculum and is taught on Capri 14.2 sailboats. With a focus on sail balance, crew coordination, and advanced maneuvers, this course is ideal for sailors who already know the basics and want to deepen their understanding and control on the water. Taught by US Sailing-certified instructors.
Halifax Area Youth Sailing Foundation
Children aged 9-17 can learn to sail in one week. The new sailors have an opportunity for non-stop fun in, on and around the water in a safe, clean, outdoor environment. No experience necessary. Over the duration of the course, students will progress through the ranks from Seaman to Skipper.
Adult Sunfish Sailing Class - Beginner
4-Day Course
Learn to sail with confidence in this hands-on beginner class taught by US Sailing-certified instructors. Perfect for those new to sailing who want to build confidence, learn the fundamentals, and gain independence on the water.
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Boat: Sunfish (14-ft solo sailboat with one sail)
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What You’ll Learn:
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Day 1: Wind basics, safety, knots, capsizing recovery, launching/landing
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Days 2–3: Sailing maneuvers, sail trim, rules of the road
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Day 4: Independent sailing on the Halifax River
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Prerequisites: Must know how to swim and be in good physical health. Expect to get wet on day one!
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Cost: $250
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Class Size: 8–10 students
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Schedule: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM each day
Adult Capri Sailing Class - Intermediate
2-Day Course
Build on your sailing foundation and take your skills to the next level in this intermediate course. Perfect for those who know the basics but want to gain confidence, control, and deeper knowledge on the water.
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Boat: Capri 14.2 (2–3 person sloop with two sails)
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What You’ll Learn:
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Classroom: Sail shaping, balance, and technical refinement
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On the Water: Crew coordination, advanced maneuvers, and performance sailing
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Prerequisites: Must have basic sailing ability, be able to swim, and be in good physical health
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Cost: $250
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Class Size: 6–8 students
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Schedule: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM each day