Private Sailing Lessons Bay Area | Modern Sailing

Private Sailing Lessons and Instruction in the Bay Area

 

Modern Sailing gives students the choice of learning to sail either in a group course or on a private basis.

On a private basis, we'll be happy to build a custom program to meet your personal sailing objectives. You can choose a time frame that fits your schedule. Whether your goal is to get certified, build your sailing resume for chartering, or simply learn new skills to make sailing more enjoyable, Modern Sailing can help you reach these goals. You'll receive expert instruction from one of our proven USCG Licensed Captains and aboard the yacht size of your choice, from 24 to 42 feet.

Are you looking for four or more hours of one-on-one instruction? A Private Lesson is for you! These minimum 4 hour sessions are ideal for one to two students who are looking to focus on specific techniques such as docking, close-quarters maneuvering, points of sail, tacking, jibing and heaving-to. Private lessons are a great option for sailors returning to the sport to brush the rust off before a bareboat skills checkout. 

Private and Custom Certification Courses and Expeditions

Looking to earn ASA Certifications, but our Schedule of courses doesn't quite mesh with yours? Consider a Custom ASA Course. Custom Courses can be scheduled to accommodate your needs and are a fun way to learn a new skill with your closest crew – family members or friends. We offer a range of private instruction from ASA 101 through ASA 106, including all of our in-house Sailing Clinics and even our Locals Expeditions to the Farallones, Half Moon Bay, and Drakes Bay. Students age 16 and 17 may receive instruction through a private lesson or custom course when enrolled with a parent.  

We would be happy to work with you to design a custom program suited to your needs - email us, or give us a call at (415) 331-8250.

Ready to book your Private Lesson? You can get us started on scheduling your instructor by submitting this Client Request Form. 

Private Lessons and Customs Cancellation Policies

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  • Sara Jane G.

    I've taken two classes at MSS&C and was very happy with the program. This is also a great club with lots of opportunities for camaraderie and practice on the water. The boats in the fleet are fantastic and kept in tip-top shape. I highly recommend for all sailors and would-be sailors!

  • Trudy Flores

    Captain Jeff Cathers is really cool. I had such a great time on the Farallones Day Trip. It was actually my very best day of 2020. Thank you so much for coordinating the trip.

  • John Kratochvil, Oregon

    I would like to compliment Stan Lander for his coaching, counseling and teaching Heavy Weather Offshore Sailing. Stan was very accommodating to all of the student's interests and shared his many years of insight on handling the boat in heavy seas. I would certainly recommend Stan and this course to sheltered waters sailors. My confidence in handling a boat of this size was certainly enhanced by the experience.

  • Andrew Goble, San Francisco

    It has been wonderful sailing with MSC over the years. Please extend my thanks to the owners, management, and staff for unrequited professionalism and high standards in a charter fleet. I have sailed with several in my years and none nearly hold a candle to the quality of business and staff at Modern Sailing.

  • Lisa Butzer Wilde

    Thumbs up to (Club Skipper) Geoff (Love) and his wife Laura. I went on my first Club Sail on Sunday, January 18, 2026. They were terrific!

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