The Newport Sea Base is a wonderful place to learn to sail, and to continue to develop your sailing skills. We offer introductory classes for younger beginners (ages 8 to 10) in our "Beginning Sailing Class" as well as those older youth (ages 11 to 18) who are sailing for the first time. Our program doesn't end with beginning sailing though. We offer many opportunites for youth to grow in their knowledge of the sport and use their skills in competition.

Our fleet includes two types of 8 foot training boats: Walker Bay 8’s and Vanguard Prams.  We also boast a new fleet of six Vanguard FJs and six 420’s as well as our Harbor 20 keelboats.

Below you fill find our class descriptions.  To see dates, times, and availability of classes, see our schedules of classes.

AGES 8-10

Elementary Sailing I

Calling girls and boys who want to learn how to sail a boat! From the first day, you’ll be on the water. You will learn to put up the sail, steer, tack and jibe and safely capsize your boat - all while practicing good sportsmanship.  

Elementary Sailing II

Now that you know the basics of sailing, this class lets you practice and learn to handle your boat in increased wind. With every day’s practice, your skills will increase, you’ll be able to get more speed and have more fun!    

Elementary Racing

You know how to tell wind direction, you can rig your boat, steer, tack and jibe. But now comes the FUN as you learn the exciting sport of sailboat racing. You’ll learn how to sail faster by improving boat handling, sail trim and observation skills. You will also learn basic racing tactics, knowledge and good sportmanship. 

AGES 11-18

Junior Sailing I

Learn the basics of sailing in an 8-foot, one-sail Vanguard Pram! From day one you, will be on the water learning to use the wind to propel your boat the direction you decide. You’ll practice tacking and jibing, and you’ll learn to safely capsize your boat. 

Junior Sailing II

Continue the adventure as you advance to two-person performance in Club 420’s, experiencing sailing both as skipper and crew. You will refine your boat-handling techniques, communication skills, knowledge of the right-of-way rules and of sportsmanship.   

Junior Racing

Now that you’ve completed Junior Sailing II, you are ready to advance your skills and discover the fun of racing sailboats. In addition to learning to sail fast and smart, you’ll improve your physical fitness and develop your communication, judgment and decision making skills. Sailing dinghies, you will alternate as skipper and crew. In addition to required proper attire, sailing gloves and a countdown timer wrist-watch are recommended. 

AGES 8-18

Marlinespike Seamanship

Learn and perfect your knots, bends and hitches. Not every salty sailor knows how to tie a Monkey’s Fist, but you will after taking this class. Practical skills developed include line splicing, coiling, stowage, properties of different types of line and usage.