Maryland School of Sailing And Seamanship

Experience the Thrill of Sailing with Us

The Maryland School of Sailing And Seamanship is dedicated to providing exceptional sailing education and training. Our experienced instructors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for sailing with students of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sailor, we welcome you to join us on a journey of learning, adventure, and camaraderie.

Student Feedback

Capt. Frank went above and beyond to be teaching the students something on a constant basis. It did not matter that we had two days delayed in two different ports or if we were underway. He clearly demonstrated on going commitment to be teaching whenever an opportunity was present. I know the students felt they learned a great deal and improved upon their sailing skills.

My thanks to Capt Tursi, Rita, and every captain I've sailed with at MDS. You all bring a level of passion and dedication that puts MDS in a special category.

Laura O - DelMarVa Circumnavigation Advanced Coastal Cruising Course - 2025

Our Courses

Intro to

Sailing

Whether you are trying to decide if sailing is something you want to pursue or if our school is right for you, this one day course will connect you with your inner sailor

Basic Coastal Cruising

Once you have learned to operate under sail, it's time to move to the next level and learn how to use the engine, plan and follow a compass course and use the anchor. Four days of training will take you to the next level

DelMarVa Circumnavigation

Now that you have learned to sail all day, it's time to start sailing at night. This seven day course will take you offshore and back up the Chesapeake Bay, traveling, navigating and avoiding the traffic by day and night.

Docking

Often referred to as "marriage counseling for cruisers," our two day docking class is designed to give you the skills to effectively communicate with your crew while putting the boat into a slip or alongside a fuel dock.

Bareboat Chartering/Cruising

It's time to adventure away from home waters. After a day of navigation planning, you will travel to a mooring ball, a transient marina and an anchorage, all in five days.

Celestial Navigation

What happens when the GPS dies? Celestial Navigation is the set of skills sailors used for centuries to go offshore. Learn the procedures and techniques to master this process, from its ancient beginnings to modern applications

Basic Keelboat

Embark on your sailing journey with our Basic Sailing Course designed for beginners. Learn the fundamentals of sailing, navigation, and safety practices in an engaging environment over a four day period

Coastal Navigation

Learn to use charts and other materials to plan your future voyages, as well as the skills to ensure that you will arrive at your intended destination. This class can be done as home study or during our annual Zoom course.

Offshore Passagemaking

The final step in your sailing training - offshore, at night, 30 knots of wind! Join us as we travel from Norfolk to Mystic by going out into the ocean for five days of travel, sailing night and day, using celestial navigation!

Join us today and improve your sailing skills! With our expert guidance, you'll gain the confidence you need to navigate the open seas comfortably. Don't miss out on the adventure—let's set sail together!