How to Prepare

Course Preparation

Rental Preparation

Class Preparation

Prior to the start of any course in which a text book is included we ask that you pick up that book from our office and read the first section to become familiar with the terminology that your instructor will use. For our Basic Sailing 101 students, you may also go to Sailingcourse.com to watch the sailing primer movie and to pass the primer test before you start your class. You may also wish to review the additional reading materials, online tutorials and training videos on this website. All will greatly add to your learning experience. It is wise to arrive early and be confident of our location.

In addition to reviewing sailing online and in your textbook, a good sailor is always aware of the weather conditions for their location. You can review Chicago Sailing's weather page for information on the current day's conditions and many helpful links. Chicago Sailing also uses the following sites for wind forecasts, Sailflow.com and Windfinder.com.

Bring to class:
1. Completed release form or complete it online.
2. Water or other Non-alcoholic hydrant.
3. Deck shoes or light-soled sneakers.
4. Sun protection (glasses, hat, sunscreen)
5. Layered clothing and a windbreaker.

Absence from class

Chicago Sailing has found it in the student’s best interest to complete each course as presented. Individuals who miss classes are likely to lose momentum and continuity. Nevertheless, if an unavoidable event forces your absence, please call our office immediately and we will determine the best course of action. Usually you will be required to complete a private make-up lesson prior to your next scheduled class, with additional charges to you.

Cancellations and no shows

Chicago Sailing will contact you if there are any changes in your class schedule. Until then you should expect to meet at the harbor at all scheduled class times. There is much coursework that we can accomplish, even when weather appears uncooperative. When you do not attend a lesson and give Chicago Sailing no advance warning, you disrupt your fellow students' progress in addition to your own.

Rental Preparation

Before any sail:
1. Make sure that your crew (guests) know how to find Chicago Sailing.
2. Ask your crew to fill out guest release forms online.
3. Pick a meeting location, we recommend the picnic area to the right of our dock entrance or in the park directly east of our dock.
4. Bring appropriate gear for your sailing conditions.
5. Track the weather and sailing conditions.

Before your first sail of the season:
1. Complete our sailing resume template or email us a copy of your existing sailing resume.
2. Familiarize yourself with the boat that you will be skippering.
3. If you are skippering a J/22 or J/24, review our outboard motor procedures.
4. Chicago Sailing requires that all sailing vessels follow our Harbor Exit and Entry procedures to insure safety of the passengers and vessel.

When you arrive:
1. The skipper and the person who made the reservation (if it wasn't the skipper) should check in with the Reservations staff at the houseboat.
2. Anyone in your party who has not filled out a release form already can do so at the dock.
3. Stow your gear and provisions on your assigned boat.
4. Gather enough lifejackets for every member of your party.
5. If it is your first sail of the season, you will complete a check-out with a member of the dock staff after you have rigged and prepared the boat for sailing.
6. Shove off carefully, when the channel is free of other boats, and enjoy your sail!