Uanoa Nelson | Modern Sailing

Uanoa Nelson

Instructor

Uanoa began sailing at age five on San Francisco Bay aboard his family’s Beneteau First 235 learning to read currents, tides, and afternoon winds while sailing to Angel Island and along the city front.  

As a teenager, Uanoa completed offshore deliveries between Long Beach and San Francisco, raced FJs for Campolindo High School, earned his US Sailing Level 1 Instructor certification, and taught youth sailors in Hawaii and adult sailors at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center while completing his degree. 

Since joining Modern Sailing in 2023 as a Customer Service/Sales Representative, Uanoa has inspired both new and experienced sailors on their individual journeys while serving as Modern Sailing’s Race Program Lead. 

Today, Uanoa holds his OUPV Captain’s License and is proud to serve on the Modern Sailing teaching staff, continuing the same passion he developed as a kid on the Bay: helping others discover the freedom, confidence, and joy that come from sailing.

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  • 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!

  • Mike, Santa Rosa, California

    All of the courses and my instructors (JT and Stan) were extremely professional and full of knowledge and experience. I found I was able to learn from their experiences beyond the scope of the courses, and look forward to future opportunities to do so. I would highly recommend Modern Sailing to anyone.

  • David Dolenc, Member

    I love sailing in the San Francisco Bay and greatly appreciate everything that MSC has to offer, the classes, clinics, club sails, racing and charters. I enjoy our supportive sailing community and use every opportunity to spend time on the water. After obtaining the certifications from MSC I did my first charter in Croatia in 2022 with my family. It was amazing and we’re looking forward to returning soon!

  • Ray Arceneaux

    The vessel was clean and in fine condition - very nice boat for training, well-equipped.

  • John Boynton

    The class was terrific. I know you must get many compliments about your sailing instructors...But I must tell you that Robert is outstanding. Having taught SCUBA, I really appreciate the way he is so sensitive to all on board, dealing with each so well, knowing quickly their strengths and weaknesses making each feel special and cared for.

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Modern Sailing School & Club

Sausalito Location
2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

Berkeley Location
1 Spinnaker Way, Berkeley
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

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