Practice Sails

Build experience and confidence on the water

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Practice Sails are for students who have completed Quick and Salty 101 and want more tiller time, more maneuver practice, and more time learning by doing. These sessions focus on repetition, skill refinement, and building natural sailing instincts. The best way to become a confident sailor is simple: spend more time sailing.

Practice Sails take place on Stumptown Viking, our responsive Ericson 23 MKII training boat. With a tiller helm and straightforward sail plan, she is ideal for developing precision and control.

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What to expect

Practice Sails run from 12 pm to 4 pm and are fully hands on. There is no classroom portion. We head straight out onto the Columbia River and focus on improving real sailing skills in real conditions.

Cost: $99

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You will:

• Take the helm for extended periods

• Practice smooth tacks and controlled gybes

• Refine sail trim

• Work through different points of sail

• Improve crew communication and timing

• Learn to anticipate boat movement and wind shifts

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Every sailor improves at their own pace which is why these sessions are relaxed, supportive, and tailored to the crew on board.

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Who this is for

• Graduates of Quick and Salty 101

• Returning sailors who want structured practice

• People preparing for Quick and Salty 102

• Anyone who wants more time sailing before skippering their own boat

• Ages 13+ and up

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Sailors who have not taken Quick and Salty 101 but have equivalent experience may join with instructor approval.

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What to bring

• Comfortable sailing clothes and layers

• Closed toe shoes

• Water and snacks

• Sailing gloves recommended

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn

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Life jackets are provided.

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These sessions are fun, focused, and the most effective way to become confident under sail. The more you sail, the better you get. Let us get you on the water.

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