Sailing: First Sail Information
Get ready to set sail!
Review the important information below to be prepared for your sail.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your sail. Boats depart as the set start time for your course.
Location & Parking
All classes will be held at the Community Sailing Center. Our address is 505 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401.
We are located on the Burlington, Vermont waterfront just north of Burlington’s A_Dog Skate Park. We can be reached by car, biking, or walking.
Parking
There are a few free first-come first-serve parking spots in the CSC’s gravel parking lot. There are also several pay-by plate spots along Lake St.
Please be aware parking can be limited on busy weekend days and evenings. We encourage participants to carpool and bike to the CSC.
Directions
To reach us by car, turn right onto Lake Street and follow it past Waterfront Park. Cross the train tracks and keep right to continue past the skate park. We are the large blue building located at the end of Lake Street, and our front doors face the skate park. We’re also easy to find by bike or foot on the Burlington Bike Path!
Liability Waiver
Every Community Sailing Center participant is required to sign the CSC’s liability waiver.
You can sign the waiver online linked here before the course or sign a physical copy when you arrive for your class.
Packing List
Every CSC participant should come to class with the following items:
- Reusable Water Bottle (recommended 1 quart minimum)
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses -with safety strap!
- Closed-toe shoes that can get wet (old sneakers work well – no flip flops)
- Dressed appropriately for the weather – keep in mind it is often cooler on the water
First Sails with Foam Brewers participants will also need to bring valid ID.
FAQ
What if I can’t make it to class?
If you’re unable to make it class, please call the CSC at (802) 864-2499. If you are running late or need to miss part of a class, please notify the CSC as soon as possible to limit disruptions for other participants.
What if it’s raining?
While we will never go out on the water if the weather is dangerous, rain alone is not considered dangerous. If the weather conditions are not safe for sailing, the CSC will offer participants alternative First Sails to reschedule.
Weather conditions can change quickly but when possible the CSC will make the call to cancel First Sails at least 2 hours before the set start time.
How wet will I get?
Participants should come prepared for weather that may include rain or, even on sunny days, spray or waves washing over the deck.
What should I bring to class? What will the weather be?
Please be prepared for conditions that range from 85° F with bright sunshine and no wind, to 48° in a rain squall with 18 knots of wind.
All participants will have a safe space to leave any belongings. Small bags and water bottles may be brought onto the boat. Participants are responsible for their own belongings and any items brought onto the boat may get wet, damaged or lost.
Do I need a Life Jacket/PFD?
The CSC will provide a life jacket for every participant.
You are welcome to bring your own USCG-approved Type III Personal Flotation Device if you have one. The CSC reserves to right to review all PFDs brought from home.
Can I bring my phone for photos?
We advise leaving all cell phones and other electronics ashore with their ringers turned off. There will be opportunities for leaving these devices in a supervised location in our office while you’re on the water. Please remember that water and electronics don’t mix.
I have more questions!
Please call the Sailing Center anytime at (802) 864-2499. General inquiries can be emailed to info@communitysailingcenter.org.
Next Steps
Learn to Sail
Enjoyed the First Sail? Take one of our 15 hour Learn to Sail Courses to be able to sail on your own! Offered throughout the summer.
Private Lessons
Whether you’re starting to sail or looking to freshen up your sailing skills, private lessons are customized to your needs. Available throughout the summer, on your schedule.