Tide Turners: Women in Sailing

Sailing classes led by expert women instructors, empowering women sailors with confidence and skill.

Turning the Tide in Sailing

Sailing has long been a male-dominated sport, but Puget Sound Sailing Institute is pushing to change that statistic. Led by incredibly talented, highly-trained women instructors, focused on women sailors, our programs foster confidence and skill through female-led instruction.

Join PSSI earn the basics of sailing, take the helm, and refine your skills in a supportive, women-only environment. Connect with like-minded sailors, build confidence, and create lasting memories on the stunning Puget Sound.

Come aboard and chart your own course!

Puget Sound Sailing - Seattle Tacoma - Keelboat

ASA 101: Basic Keelboat Sailing

Beginner Sailing Class

Master the fundamentals of sailing a 20-27' keelboat under gentle to moderate wind conditions in familiar waters. This introductory course will teach you essential sailing techniques, safety procedures, and navigation basics, preparing you to confidently skipper your own keelboat during daylight hours.

Course Highlights:

  • Fundamental sailing theory and terminology

  • Basic boat handling and safety

  • Sail trimming and maneuvering (tacking, jibing)

  • Docking techniques and crew communication

Sailboat returning to marina at sunset with other boats docked

ASA 118: Docking Endorsement

Intermediate/Advanced Sailing Class

Enhance your docking proficiency and avoid costly repairs. Learn proven methods for smooth docking operations and build confidence at the helm.

Skills Covered:

  • Safe docking practices

  • Single-engine boat handling

  • Marina and slip entry/exit

Sailboat on a calm sea with mountainous coastline in the background, under a clear blue sky.

ASA 103: Coastal Cruising

Intermediate Sailing Class

Confidently skipper 25-35' sailboats in moderate conditions. Master crucial boat systems, navigation, docking, sail trim, and safety.

Skills Covered:

  • Sail trim and performance

  • Coastal navigation

  • Engine operation

  • Weather and seamanship

Sailboat on ocean at sunset with billowing sails and clear sky

ASA 104: Independent

Intermediate Sailing Class

Learn to independently skipper 30-45' sailboats. Gain expertise in provisioning, cruising navigation, offshore handling, and overnight passages.

Skills Covered:

  • Provisioning and overnight preparations

  • Advanced navigation skills

  • Seamanship and safety at sea

  • Heavy weather sailing tactics