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Learn to sail with sailtime.

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SailTime Chesapeake Bay South offers some of the best sailing on the Southern Chesapeake. We are an American Sailing Association (ASA) affiliate offering unparalleled excellence in sail training.

Our goal is to give you the confidence and competence to safely skipper your own vessel, whether it’s a SailTime yacht or a keelboat. Boating lessons are geared for all experience levels, from first-time sailors to seasoned salt, we can help you take your sailing abilities to the next level.

Experiential Education

Asa 101 course.

Students learn to sail a boat of about 20 feet in length in moderate winds and sea conditions in familiar waters without supervision.

ASA 103 Course

Students will learn to skills to perform as skipper or crew of a 30-50 foot boat by sailing in coastal waters.

ASA 104 Course

Students will learn to pilot a 30-45′ sloop-rigged keelboat during a multi-day cruise on inland or coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds and seas.

ASA 105 Course

Asa 106 course.

Students will learn how to safely act as skipper and crew of a 30-50′ sailboat in near-coastal and inland waters, in any wind and weather conditions.

ASA 118 Course

Asa 103/104 combo course.

The ASA 103/104 course is a 5-day, 4-night class covering the material of ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising and ASA 104 Bareboat Charter.

Boating Education

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Summer camp and adult sailing lesson registration for the 2024 season is now open! Register today! Our winter office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days per week.  

Belle Haven Marina, located just south of historic Old Town Alexandria along the George Washington Memorial Parkwa y and adjacent to Dyke Marsh , is a quaint, scenic marina owned by the National Park Service and operated by Belle Haven Marina Inc., a sister company of Marine Evolutions Inc .

BOAT RENTALS

Rent a sail boat, kayak, canoe, jon boat, stand-up paddleboard, and more.

CLASSES AND CAMPS

We offer adult and youth classes, youth summer camps, safe power boating, and more.

LAUNCH RAMP AND SLIPS

The marina offers wet and dry slips, moorings, rack storage, and a launch ramp.

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Learn to Sail

The fun continues onshore with hands-on activities from Reach, US Sailing’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education initiative for middle school students.

We’re a designated US Sailing Community Sailing Center and open to the public. We thrive on local involvement and diversity by partnering with Boys and Girls Club and City of Hampton Parks, Recreation and Leisure Services, and Alternatives, Inc. Everyone should have access to the wonder of sailing—for those in need, please apply for a partial or full grant for the course fees!

Financial assistance is available on first come, first served basis, please complete the request form for consideration.

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

New Discounts!

$25 OFF Military Discount and $25 OFF Multiple Sibling Discounts

To get your discount code, please contact us before registering. [email protected] or 757-778-1335

NEW PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT:

We are conducting Water Safety and Survival Classes to help get your child comfortable in the water with the goal of passing the swim check. This is not a substitute for Formal Swimming Lessons , but enough to prevent panic and if they pass the swim check, will allow them to take sailing lessons. Scroll down and register for this important survival class for your child!

Our Courses

View the Full List of Open Classes

Family/Friends Learn to Sail

Last year we introduced a Family Learn to Sail course that was so successful we had to turn people away. This year we’ve added lots more dates to choose from, but don’t wait too long because spaces will fill up.

One adult and one child or for those who don’t have family to sail with, sign up with a friend! Get out of the house this summer, soak up the sun and take in the beauty of Mill Creek at Fort Monroe and learn to sail together in a fun filled three day course.

Learn in our newly acquired Hunter 140s which offer more room for adults and a great way to start before advancing to FJs if so desired.

Sign Up Now

Beginner Learn to Sail

Beginner Sailing with STEM is a great way for your child to spend some time “unplugged” while learning basic skills of sailing. Students will learn water safety, weather, knots, rigging, de-rigging, points of sail, sailing maneuvers, use of telltales and much more. Using sailing as a platform for STEM, our in-classroom instruction complements and reinforces lessons learned on the water.

Our one-week course offers morning sessions only for beginners.

Intermediate Learn to Sail

Grow your skills as a sailor with us! Students who have satisfactorily completed a beginner course are eligible for the Intermediate Course. Intermediate classes will build upon the boat handling skills learned in beginner session with instruction complemented by four STEM modules: weather, wind, current and tides. Space is limited.

Intro to Racing

New this year is our Intro to Racing course. For all you sailors ready to lean about racing…this is the course for you! Our instructors will cover a wide range of topics that will prepare you for competition, from starts and finishes to right-of-way and scoring and so much more.

To take this course your sailor must have completed Intermediate Learn to Sail and/or Small Boat Sailor Certification with Your Sailing Virginia or approved sailing school.

Water Safety and Survival

Designed for Non-Swimmers!

Water Smarts:

• Know your limitations, including physical fitness, medical conditions.
• Never swim alone; swim with lifeguards and/or water watchers present.
• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight and size and the water activity. Always wear a life jacket while boating, regardless of swimming skill.
• Swim sober.
• Understand the dangers of hyperventilation and hypoxic blackout.
• Know how to call for help.
• River currents.
• Tidal Currents.
• Ocean rip currents.
• Water temperature.
• Shallow or unclear water.
• Underwater hazards, such as vegetation and animals.

Basic Swimming Introduction

• Enter water that’s over your head, then return to the surface.
• Float or tread water for at least 1 minute.
• Turn over and turn around in the water.
• Swim at least 25 yards.
• Exit the water.

Opportunities to go powerboating and sailing in the protected waters of Mill Creek are included in the course!

What are you waiting for? Sign up today and let the wind guide you to discovering a lifelong passion for sailing.

For More Information

Please contact Rose Hobart at  [email protected]  for registration information, or 757-778-1335. If your student requires a full-day camp, please inquire with Rose.

Scholarship funds are currently exhausted. Please consider donating to help us meet our growing demand for students reliant on scholarships.

Is your sailor interested sailing with our high school sailing program? Learn more here .

*There is a minimum of 6 sailors per session required. Spots are limited, so sign up today!*

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Escape for an Early Spring Getaway at The Hope & Glory Inn.   Learn more.

Where to Find the Best Sailing Lessons in Virginia

Virginia is one of the most beautiful states on the east coast with dozens of thrilling hikes, unparalleled summit views, water activities, and excellent restaurants. Located right on the water, the charming town of Irvington is one of our favorite destinations because of its quaint feel and easy access to tons of nearby attractions. The area offers some of the best opportunities to take sailing lessons in Virginia . Be sure to make time to get out on the water and see all that Irvington has to offer.

As you begin planning your trip, explore our complimentary Vacation Guide for more information on the top restaurants, attractions, and sights. With this essential planning tool, you get local recommendations on everything you need to experience during your getaway on the Northern Neck peninsula of Virginia.

Enjoy Your Free Guide!

The Best Places for Sailing Lessons in Virginia

Premier sailing.

Just a few minutes drive from the Hope and Glory Inn, Premier Sailing is one of the go-to spots for sailing lessons in Virginia as the sixth-largest sailing school in the entire country. The company opened in 1988 and quickly established itself as an authority in Virginia’s sailing scene. Visitors can opt to take either adult, kids, or family sailing lessons and learn how to navigate the waters themselves. You also have the option to book a Sunset Cruise charter for up to four people and a skipper to watch as the sky changes to magnificent shades of yellow, orange, and pink in the evening. Prices vary based on the charter or sailing lesson options. Just be sure to book ahead of time to guarantee that you get the experience you’re looking for.

Norton Yacht Sailing School

Norton Yachts allows visitors and locals alike to experience the thrill of learning how to sail with their variety of sailing lesson options. If you’re looking to sign up for a sailing lesson in Virginia, this is another great place to look into. Lessons range from four to 10 hours and teach you all the basic techniques you’ll need to master the art of sailing.

Carter’s Creek Cruises

While staying at the Hope and Glory Inn, guests are treated to a luxurious experience with plenty of amazing accommodations and activities. The inn even offers its own cruising opportunities for those who want to get out on the water but aren’t as interested in learning how to sail the boat themselves. For a unique and intimate boating experience, guests can sign up for our cruises aboard True Love . While on the cruise, guests can choose to add on a custom Hope and Glory bag with a bottle of wine and charcuterie to enjoy while cruising through Carter’s Creek.

Embark on the Vacation of a Lifetime and Stay at the Hope and Glory Inn

When planning a vacation to Irvington, VA, the Hope and Glory Inn is the place to stay with a nearly endless list of amenities like a top-rated, on-site restaurant serving world-class cuisine prepared by the talented Chef Meseret Crockett . During the day or in the evening, you can stroll through our very own vineyard and sample a local selection of wines as well as delicious oyster pairings from Chef Stuart Tyson that guests consistently rave about. It’s the perfect pairing of terroir and merroir — one that you can only find at a few places in the world! No matter what you decide to do during your trip to Irvington, you’re sure to fall in love with the area.

Browse our complete list of available rooms and suites and book your stay today !

Recent Posts

• Vote Now for Best of Virginia 2024 January 7, 2024
• A Holiday Retreat to Irvington, Virginia December 1, 2023
• The Perfect Fall Getaway in Irvington October 27, 2023
• 2023 Travelers’ Choice Award Winner July 19, 2023
• “Top 7 Boutique Hotels in the United States” by The Street May 24, 2023

Get In Touch

• 804-438-6053
• [email protected]
• 65 Tavern Rd Irvington, VA 22480

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We are ideally located on the Northern Neck of Chesapeake Bay.  A short 75 minutes from Richmond, 2 hours from Virginia Beach, and just 3 hours from the Washington D.C. Metro area. 

2024 March Special

Escape for an Early Spring Getaway at The Hope & Glory Inn

Book & Stay by March 31st for unprecedented discount rates.

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Summer Sailing Guide

Last updated: May 24, 2021

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

Washington sailing marina.

Along the George Washington Parkway, this Alexandria sailing location offers boat rentals, lessons, and is also home to NoVA sailing clubs. You can sail up a storm here and enjoy the wind on your face coming at you from every direction. You’ll never see the sea the same way again. // 1 Marina Dr. at Daingerfield Island, Alexandria; 703-548-9027

Mariner Sailing School at Belle Haven Marina

Right off of the GW Parkway, this popular NoVA sailing destination sets you out on the Potomac River right near Old Town. Friendly staff and eager instructors make the experience at Mariner Sailing School a truly memorable experience. // 6401 George Washington Memorial Pkwy., Alexandria, 703-768-0018

Northern Virginia Sailing School

Nestled alongside the Potomac River in Prince William County, take sailing classes and get certified in a variety of boat crafts. Once you’ve mastered the basics, rent a variety of boats and sail out to local waters. // 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge; 571-331-0901

WASHINGTON, DC

District wharf.

DC’s newest attraction is located right alongside the Potomac River. In addition to various water sports like kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding, enjoy high-end dining options, or check out a show at The Anthem, DC’s brand-new concert venue. // 735 Water St. SW, Washington, DC

Pentago n Sailing Club at the Capital Cove Marina

This sailing volunteer association offers classroom training, recreational sailing, and water sailing instructions. Take your theoretical knowledge and turn it into practical nautical instincts instilled by the wonderful sailing instructors here at the Pentagon Sailing Club. // 202-681-4772

This community sailing program is on a mission to promote recreational and competitive sailing programs in the area for both youth and adults. DC Sail’s message to improve the sailing community is something you’ll be thinking about as an added perk to your once-in-a-blue-moon sailing experience that will turn into a habitual summer family tradition. // 600 Water St. SW, Washington, DC; 202-547-1250

National Harbor  

You’ll find enough activities to spend an entire day at the harbor whether it be paddleboarding, kayaking, or pedal boarding. If you get tired, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants along the harbor or shop at the various retail locations around the immediate area. // 165 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD

The Sailing Academy

On the Chesapeake Bay, this sailing school is only 20 minutes from the Beltway and offers the full sailing experience in a private or group setting. The location of this school takes the Sailing experience to the next frontier by exploring a body of water considerably larger than the Potomac. // 411 Deale Rd., Tracy’s Landing, MD; 410-867-7177  

Annapolis Sailing School

Here, a variety of skill levels are welcome to learn the art of sailing in beautiful Annapolis Bay. They also offer courses to reach ASA certification. Annapolis Sailing School will definitely inspire you to explore the world of sailing much more seriously than you had previously imagined. // 7001 Bembe Beach Rd., Annapolis, MD; 410-267-7205

Your boat is ready when you are at this Annapolis school recognized with several awards by the ASA. Explore your most curious nautical side at Sail Time and you’ll find yourself with a memory that’ll last a lifetime and a thirst to make it a tradition. Never underestimate the power of a trusty steed . // 105 Eastern Ave., Annapolis, MD; 443-376-7245

Schooner Woodwind

Right in the center of “America’s Sailing Capital,” sail the Chesapeake Bay on a plethora of cruise options that vary from short, public excursions to private, intimate adventures. Feeling spirited? Partake in team building exercises while learning how to sail alongside crew members. // 80 Compromise St., Annapolis, MD; 410-263-7837

Sail  Solomons

With awards from the American Sailing Association, engage in sailing lessons from esteemed professionals on high-end Catalina daysailers and Beneteau cruising boats. Once you’ve mastered the basics in class, join other sailing enthusiasts in sailing club activities. // 245 C St., Solomons, MD; 410-326-4917

Did we miss something? Email:  [email protected] .

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Courses and Certifications

Sailing certifications in norfolk, va.

Earn sailing certifications in Norfolk, VA with SailTime Chesapeake Bay South. Become a skilled sailor on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Book your lesson today!

• our most popular!
• Sailboat Courses and Certifications
• Hour Glass 2 Days

ASA 101: Basic Keelboat

Learn to sail a boat of about 22 feet in length in light to moderate winds and sea conditions in familiar waters without supervision.

ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising

Students will learn skills to perform as skipper or crew of a 30-50 foot boat by sailing in coastal waters.

• Hour Glass 3 Days

ASA 104: Bareboat Cruising

Students will learn to skipper a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered (inboard diesel engine) keelboat of approximately 30 to 50 feet in length.

• Hour Glass 4 Days

ASA 103 and 104: Bareboat Charter Certification Combo

The individual can act as skipper or crew of a 30 – 50 foot boat sailing by day in coastal waters upon conclusion of this course.

ASA 105: Coastal Navigation

This course enables the student to demonstrate the navigational theory required to safely navigate a sailing vessel in coastal or inland waters.

• Hour Glass Full Day , Half Day

ASA 111: Sailing Review Clinic

This half-day or full-day of on-water skills review clinic is targeted to meet the needs of ASA certified sailors who either need a “refresher” or those who those who wish to get focused instruction in a few areas.

ASA 114: Cruising Catamarans

This course will provide you with a more advanced knowledge base, teaching you the essential skills you’ll need to safely command a 30-50 foot sailing catamaran.

ASA 117: Basic Celestial Navigation Endorsement (2-Day)

Learn to apply basic celestial navigation theory and practice to determine latitude and longitude at sea using a sextant and Nautical Almanac.

• Hour Glass 1 Day

ASA 118: Docking Course

Learn how to safely and efficiently dock an auxiliary powered (single inboard or outboard engine) sailboat under almost any condition.

• Hour Glass 5 Days

ASA 101 to 104: Novice to Bareboat Certification Combo

This 5 day, 2 night course starts at Morningstar Marina for two days of instruction in the classroom and on board the 36′ sailboat. Private Course.

• Hour Glass 6 Days

ASA 101-106

Get ASA 101 and 106 certifications in Norfolk, VA with SailTime Chesapeake Bay South. Become a proficient sailor on the Chesapeake. Book your lesson online now!

• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Capri Checkout Training Clinic

After completing your ASA 101, checkout on a Capri with a captain and then be eligible for bareboating the Capri for the season.

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• Sailing Challenge

Norton’s Sailing School is an ASA-certified Sailing School. ASA (American Sailing Association) it the oldest and the best sailing curriculum available. ASA credentials are recognized worldwide, so the skills you obtain through our fully sanctioned sailing classes will allow you to charter a sailboat with Norton Yachts or any other charter company in the world.

Norton’s Sailing School also provides students with top-notch sailing instructors who love the water and think the Bay is the best classroom. We believe that students learn best when 90% of the instruction is on the water. Our instruction is comprehensive, yet relaxed because we want our students to have fun while they are learning to sail!

American Sailing Certifications Offered

Other Services Available

• Women Only Courses
• Couples Courses
• Private Courses
• Weekday Courses
• Weekend Courses
• ASA 'Challenges'
• Day Sail Charters (public)
• Sunset Cruises
• Sailboat Cruises

ASA Veterans Sailing Education Program - Sign Up Now >>

At ASA we recognize the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served or are serving in our country's armed forces. As a token of our appreciation, and our way of saying thank you, we are inviting veterans and active military personnel to share our passion for sailing by offering a discount on our ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing course. Norton’s Sailing School is offering a minimum of $50.00 or 10% off their ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing course.

Sailing School Reviews / Testimonials

B.N. - Norton’s Sailing School

T.M. - Norton’s Sailing School

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Sailing Cruises

Cruise Overview

Relax and unwind or grab a friend to enjoy an outing on the water! We will put an experienced captain at the helm and leave you to enjoy one of the most rewarding and fun pastimes - sailing! Glide across the water with the propulsion of the wind and enjoy the beautiful Potomac River at its best. See Maryland's shores, observe several scenic and historical points, and spot wildlife from the three mile (30 sq miles) stretch of the Potomac River that Northern Virginia Sailing School calls home.

• Flexible 24/7 scheduling
• Outboard motor sailing (no paddling!)
• Beautiful, clean boats Excellent staff and crew
• Huge Sailing Area (30 sq miles)
• Easy cancellations / reschedules
• Beautiful location

Groups of 1-4

Take a 2 hour excursion on the beautiful Potomac River with an experienced captain at the helm.  Sit back, relax, and have fun as you cruise along with wide open views and crisp, fresh breezes.  We charge $150/2-hr cruise and provide the captain for your excursion.  Please be sure to check out our FAQs and share with your guests prior to your arrival.

Groups of 4+

Groups of over 4 usually require an additional captain and sailing vessel.  Please send us an email to see if an additional captain or vessel is available so that we can adequately accommodate you.

Large Groups

We also plan special events for kids groups, co-workers,  youth organizations, church groups, clubs, birthday parties, or celebrations!  Please send us an email to inquire!

Cruises Available

$150.00/boat (4 guests).

**A 3% merchant fee will be charged at checkout for credit card purchases.  We accept cash, Visa, Mastercard and Discover payments.

Other Classes and Courses

ASA 104: Bareboat Cruising

Refesher Classes

Sailboat Owner’s Classes

Try Sail Class

ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising

ASA 101: Basic Keel Boat Course

Sailboat Rentals

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Emergency personnel try to put a fire on a sailboat off the coast of Cape Henry, Va. early Friday, March 8, 2024. Three people were rescued as the U.S. Coast Guard asked the Virginia Beach Fire Department’s fire boat crews to help respond to the fire about 3 miles (4.8 km) off the coast of Cape Henry around 3:40 a.m., department spokesperson said in an email. (Virginia Beach Fire Department via AP)

• Copy Link copied

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) — Three people were rescued after a sailboat caught fire off the coast of Virginia Beach early Friday, a fire official said.

The U.S. Coast Guard asked the Virginia Beach Fire Department’s fire boat crews to help respond to the fire about 3 miles (4.8 km) off the coast of Cape Henry around 3:40 a.m., department spokesperson Barbara Morrison said in an email.

A pilot boat picked up the three adults after they jumped into the water from the 75-foot (22.9-meter) sailboat and they were taken to the nearby Virginia pilot house, Morrison said. EMS checked out the patients and no injuries were reported, she said.

Fully online, professional Master's Degrees in Engineering

Earn your professional Master of Engineering degree online from the University of Virginia – one of the top-ranked universities in the nation. We’ve been delivering accredited engineering courses to students electronically for over 35 years, making their dreams of professional advancement possible even while they maintain a demanding career.

Want to try a class to see how it goes?  Our classes are open to degree and non-degree/visiting students! There is no application fee to take classes with us as a visiting or non-degree student.  

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Check out our  Getting Started page for full details on both options for taking classes through Virginia Engineering Online.

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Navy to Christen Submarine Idaho

The Navy will christen its newest Virginia-class attack submarine, the future USS Idaho (SSN 799), during a 10 a.m. EDT ceremony March 16, at General Dynamics Electric Boat, in Groton, Connecticut.    The Honorable Nickolas H. Guertin, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (ASN) for Research, Development, and Acquisition (RDA), will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Senior representatives from the Navy, the shipbuilders, Congress, and the state of Idaho are also expected to speak.

In a twist on the time-honored Navy tradition of breaking a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow, the Submarine's Sponsor, Ms. Teresa Stackley, will christen the boat with water she has collected from several lakes in Idaho. Stackley is the daughter of a Navy Sailor and is the spouse of the Honorable Sean Stackley, a former Naval officer who served as ASN (RDA) from 2008 to 2017.

The submarine, which began construction in 2017, will be the 26th Virginia-class fast attack submarine and the fifth U.S. Navy ship to be christened with the name Idaho. The last ship named Idaho was battleship BB 42, commissioned in 1919. 

Though landlocked, the state of Idaho prides itself in its rich Naval history and continuing contributions to the fleet. The Navy's Acoustic Research Detachment on Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho's largest and deepest body of water, is a state-of-the-art facility that supports research, development, testing, and evaluation of submarine acoustic stealth technology and propulsor design. Lake Pend Oreille is a critical body of water to the U.S. Submarine Force.

Virginia-class submarines are built to operate in the world's littoral and deep waters while conducting anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface ship warfare; strike warfare; special operations forces support; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; irregular warfare; and mine warfare missions. This next-generation attack submarine provides the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation's undersea superiority well into the 21st century.   Media may direct queries to the Navy Office of Information at (703) 697-5342. For more information about the Virginia-class submarines visit:

https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2169558/attack-submarines-ssn/

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