2026 Volunteer Instructor Training Weekend

DC Sail's Adult lessons are taught by highly trained Volunteer Instructors.  

DC Sail hosts an intensive training weekend for our new Volunteer Instructors, providing you all the information and skills necessary to successfully conduct lessons.

DC Sail Volunteer Instructors receive a special membership rate of only $135 for 12 months, with all the perks of a Super Membership, in exchange for providing a minimum of two lesson "Shifts" per month from April through October. (Existing Basic/Super members will have their membership level migrated to the Instructor level at the time of their 2026 renewal.)

Instructors teach our Adult Beginner Learn to Sail Lessons and Refresher Courses, which take place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays during the sailing season. Season will resume April 25, 2026.

Three Instructors also teach the Intro to FJs Course will run over a single weekend, once a month in June, July and August and will take place 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Requirements for Becoming a Volunteer Instructor:

• Relevant sailing experience.
• Successful completion of a District of Columbia Boating Safety Certification (NASBLA approved boat safety course.)
• Commitment to teaching at least two lessons per month.
• Ability to swim 75 yards while fully clothed.
• Ability to exhibit appropriate interpersonal skills.  
• Participate in DC Sail training sessions and agree to follow our curriculum for consistency.
• Become a paid DC Sail member at the Instructor rate (this is by invitation only after completing the Volunteer Instructor training and when registering for shifts.) 
  
• Establish a Shiftboard account. (This is the online scheduling platform we use.)
• A great attitude, enjoyment in sharing sailing knowledge and skills, and a desire to have fun!

• US Sailing Small Boat Level 1 Instructor Certification.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certifications.
• US Sailing SafeSport Certification.

2026 Volunteer Instructor Training Weekend:

Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th

• Mandatory Attendance both days for new DC Sail Volunteer Instructors. 
• Returning Volunteer Instructors who feel the need to refresh curriculum knowledge should plan to only attend on Saturday.  
• Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Continental Breakfast and Lunch will be provided on Saturday. Please bring your own food/beverages for Sunday.
• Please dress for the weather and bring a lifejacket.