It's important to enroll in the school that best meets your needs. There are national, for-profit schools that cover every aspect of sailing, usually in intensive, weekend or week-long, eight-hours-a-day sessions; and there are nonprofit, community-based programs, with sessions after work and on weekends, that teach the basic boathandling skills needed to get started sailing. When choosing a sailing school, make sure to get answers to the following questions.

How are instructors trained and/or certified? Are instructors certified by U.S. Sailing (the national governing body of sailing) or the American Sailing Association (ASA)?

What type of certification system is used for students? Will the certification be recognized by charter companies or sailing clubs? Both ASA and U.S. Sailing use standardized methods of teaching sailing and certifying graduates that are becoming widely recognized.

What type/size boat will be used in the program? Make sure the boat suits the type of sailing you'd like to do.

Does the school provide textbooks, instructional videos, and classroom training? It's important to have references to study away from the water.

How many students per class? More than four students per instructor minimizes crucial personal attention.

How long has the school been in business? Also, check that the school is accredited and insured.

Will the school provide graduate references? Talking with recent graduates is the best way to get an unbiased look at the school and see if the program delivers what is promised in the brochure.

How much can you learn? Are there advanced courses? Will the school help you continue sailing by recommending a club or supervised flotilla charters?