Seattle Sailing Club Cancellations, Refunds & Program Policies
ASA Sailing Lessons
- Review your confirmation email for any relevant information and/or course materials.
- Sign the Participant Waiver (in your confirmation email).
- Be punctual; call if you’re running late.
- Be respectful of captains/instructors, fellow crewmates, students, and Club staff.
- Tipping: Tipping your instructor is not required, but is greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your lesson. A typical tip ranges from 10–20% of the course cost. For multi-day courses or those with multiple instructors, it’s common to tip $20–$50 per instructor per day. All tips go directly to the instructor.
Day-based Sailing Lessons – ASA 101, 102, 103, 105, 118, 111:
- Cancellations made 14+ days before the first day of the lesson are fully refundable.
- Cancelling or Rescheduling within 14-days of the lesson will result in a fee of 25% of the cost of the course.
Overnight lessons (Seattle-based) -ASA 104, 103/104 combo, 106:
- Cancellations made 14+ days before the first day of the lesson are fully refundable.
- Cancelling or Rescheduling within 14-days of the lesson will result in a fee of 50% of the cost of the course.
- Trip Protection is highly recommended. With Trip Protection, your lesson can be cancelled, rescheduled, or converted into a gift card up to the start time of your lesson. Trip Protection may be used one time and is only available for purchase at time of booking. All funds (minus Trip Protection and Booking Fees) are refundable and transferable.
Overnight lessons (Anacortes-based) -ASA 104, 103/104 combo:
- Cancellations made 30+ days before the first day of the lesson are fully refundable.
- Cancelling or Rescheduling within 30-days of the lesson will result in a fee of 50% of the cost of the course.
- Trip Protection is highly recommended. With Trip Protection, your lesson can be cancelled, rescheduled, or converted into a gift card up to the start time of your lesson. Trip Protection may be used one time and is only available for purchase at time of booking. All funds (minus Trip Protection and Booking Fees) are refundable and transferable.
Please note:
- Lessons are refundable up to 6 months after purchase.
- Shipping is non-refundable.
- Course materials that are shipped or picked up are non-refundable.
- There are no refunds for missed lessons.
- Life Jackets (provided) are required while on the boat.
- Wearing weather-appropriate attire and closed-toed, non-slip shoes, is essential for your safety and comfort on the water. Please review our suggested packing list and reach out if you have any questions.
- Mobility Challenges: Moving around a sailboat can be challenging, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Participants should be aware of the potential difficulties and plan accordingly. Additionally, please note that the bathrooms on a boat are only accessible by ladder into the cabin. Some boats do not have bathrooms.
- Medical Conditions: Participants should inform their skipper/instructor of any medical conditions or allergies that may require special attention during the class.
- Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
- Your safety is our priority. We’ll cancel on-the-water programs if winds reach 15 knots or more, if there’s thunder and lightning, or if visibility is too limited to sail safely.
- Whenever possible, classroom and dockside lessons will continue as scheduled. If severe weather makes it unsafe for boats to go out, Seattle Sailing Club will arrange for rescheduling.
Puget Sound can feel cold even in summer. Check the forecast right before your lesson and dress for rain, wind, and cool nights. Hypothermia can happen quickly on the water, so plan to stay warm and dry and bring extra layers.
Quick Layering Guidelines
- Base layer (next to skin): moisture-wicking fabric (polyester, polypropylene, wool). Avoid cotton.
- Mid layer (warmth): fleece, softshell, down, or synthetic insulation.
- Outer layer (weather): waterproof + breathable jacket and pants/bibs to block wind and spray.
Suggested Packing List | Day-based Lessons, Clinics, & Events
Clothing & Gear
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Base layer top and bottom
- 1–2 mid-layers (tops and/or bottoms)
- Sailing gloves and/or warm gloves
- Warm hat and/or sun hat
- 2 pairs non-cotton socks
- Closed-toe, non-slip, non-marking shoes
Sun / Comfort
- Sunglasses
- Lotion-style sunscreen (no aerosols — they can stain boats)
- Sun shirt
Food & Practical
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks + lunch
- Seasickness remedies (if you’re prone)
- Notebook + pen/pencil
- ASA Logbook
- ASA Book
Suggested Packing List | Overnight Lessons & Events
Please use a soft-sided bag. Hard luggage can be difficult to store aboard a sailboat.
Sleeping & Bedding
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Towel + washcloth
- Laundry bag / bag for wet clothes
Clothing & Layers
Plan for damp days + cold nights.
- 2–3 lower-body layers (base + mid)
- 4 upper-body layers (base + mid)
- 4–5 pairs non-cotton socks
- Underwear
- Pants & shirts
- Shorts (optional)
- Warm hat + sun hat
- Sailing gloves and/or warm gloves
- Foul-weather jacket + bibs
- Waterproof boots
- Closed-toe, non-slip, non-marking shoes
Sun & Skin Protection
- Lotion-style sunscreen (no aerosols)
- Lip balm
- Moisturizer
- Sunglasses + retainer/strap
Personal Items & Essentials
- Personal medications
- Toiletries
- Reusable water bottle
- Seasickness remedies (if prone)
- Headlamp or small flashlight + extra batteries
- Dry bags / waterproof pouches for electronics, clothes, valuables
Optional / Comfort Items
- Watch
- Binoculars / personal nav tools / notebook / camera (if desired)
- Earplugs / sleep mask (sleeping aboard can be noisy or bright)
- Portable phone charger / power bank
- Thermos or insulated mug
- Neck gaiter / buff
Seattle Sailing Club’s Pro Shop carries sailing gear, and students receive 10% off full-priced items.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed onboard during lessons/clinics.
- Cannabis is not permitted onboard at any time. Although it’s legal in Washington State, Puget Sound is a federal waterway governed by the U.S. Coast Guard, so federal law still applies while on the water.
- Please do not smoke or vape onboard at any time.
Educational Programs (3 – 4 hours)
Intro to Sailing Classes, Continuing Education Courses, Member Clinics
- Review your confirmation email for any relevant information and/or course materials
- Sign the Participant Waiver (in your confirmation email)
- Be punctual; call if you’re running late
- Be respectful of captains/instructors, fellow crewmates, students, and Club staff
- Tipping: Tipping your instructor/captain is not required, but is greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your lesson. A typical tip ranges from 10–20% of the course cost. All tips go directly to the instructor.
- All cancellations must be sent directly to info@seattlesailing.com. Please do not reply to any of your automatic event emails – we will not receive your cancellation.
- Cancellations are available up to 72 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 72 hours of the event are non-refundable or transferable.
- Refunds or transfers are not given to no-shows.
- Life Jackets (provided) are required while on the boat.
- Wearing weather-appropriate attire and closed-toed, non-slip shoes, is essential for your safety and comfort on the water. Please review our suggested packing list and reach out if you have any questions.
- Mobility Challenges: Moving around a sailboat can be challenging, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Participants should be aware of the potential difficulties and plan accordingly. Additionally, please note that the bathrooms on a boat are only accessible by ladder into the cabin. Some boats do not have bathrooms.
- Medical Conditions: Participants should inform their skipper/instructor of any medical conditions or allergies that may require special attention during the clinic.
- Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
- Your safety is our priority. We’ll cancel on-the-water programs if winds reach 15 knots or more, if there’s thunder and lightning, or if visibility is too limited to sail safely.
- In these cases, you will be refunded for your event or you may use the credit toward a future event. Send us an email to let us know if you would like to be refunded or rebooked to another event.
Puget Sound can feel cold even in summer. Check the forecast right before your lesson and dress for rain, wind, and cool nights. Hypothermia can happen quickly on the water, so plan to stay warm and dry and bring extra layers.
Quick Layering Guidelines
- Base layer (next to skin): moisture-wicking fabric (polyester, polypropylene, wool). Avoid cotton.
- Mid layer (warmth): fleece, softshell, down, or synthetic insulation.
- Outer layer (weather): waterproof + breathable jacket and pants/bibs to block wind and spray.
Suggested Packing List | Day-based Lessons, Clinics, & Events
Clothing & Gear
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Base layer top and bottom
- 1–2 mid-layers (tops and/or bottoms)
- Sailing gloves and/or warm gloves
- Warm hat and/or sun hat
- 2 pairs non-cotton socks
- Closed-toe, non-slip, non-marking shoes
Sun / Comfort
- Sunglasses
- Lotion-style sunscreen (no aerosols — they can stain boats)
- Sun shirt
Food & Practical
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Seasickness remedies (if you’re prone)
- Notebook + pen/pencil
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed onboard during lessons or clinics. Alcohol use
- Cannabis is not permitted onboard at any time. Although it’s legal in Washington State, Puget Sound is a federal waterway governed by the U.S. Coast Guard, so federal law still applies while on the water.
- Please do not smoke or vape onboard at any time.
Corporate Team Building Program
- 31+ days before event: Full refund of event cost, 100% refund of food.
- 20-30 days before event: 90% refund of event cost, 100% refund of food.
- 10-19 days before event: 80% refund of event cost, 100% refund of food.
- 4-9 days before event: 60% refund of event cost, 100% refund of food.
- 2-3 days before event: 50% refund of event cost, 0% refund on food.
- 0-48 hours before event: 30% refund of event cost, 0% refund on food.
- 21+ days before event: Free of charge.
- 14-20 days before event: $200 rescheduling fee.
- 7-13 days before event: $400 rescheduling fee.
- 0-6 days before event: $600 rescheduling fee.
- Life Jackets (provided) are required while on the boat.
- Wearing weather-appropriate attire and closed-toed, non-slip shoes, is essential for your safety and comfort on the water. Please review our suggested packing list and reach out if you have any questions.
- Mobility Challenges: Moving around a sailboat can be challenging, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Participants should be aware of the potential difficulties and plan accordingly. Additionally, please note that the bathrooms on a boat are only accessible by ladder into the cabin. Some boats do not have bathrooms.
- Medical Conditions: Participants should inform their skipper/instructor of any medical conditions or allergies that may require special attention during the class.
- Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
- All guests must be 21 or older if alcohol is present on board.
- Beer, cider, hard seltzers, and white wine are allowed in moderation during cruising events and at the Club after races. We can’t supply alcohol, but you’re welcome to bring your own.
- Glass bottles and red wine are not permitted.
- You may order alcohol for delivery to the Club on your event day; just give us advance notice.
- Please drink responsibly.
- Cannabis is not permitted onboard at any time. Although it’s legal in Washington State, Puget Sound is a federal waterway governed by the U.S. Coast Guard, so federal law still applies while on the water.
- Please do not smoke or vape onboard at any time.
- Events are held rain or shine.
- If the forecast predicts winds gusting at 25 knots or more:
- The Club will notify the event planner within 24 hours.
- A contingency plan will be discussed. The Club has alternative events to ensure the team can still get out on the water.
- If the Club cancels due to unsafe conditions, a full refund for the event and meals will be issued.
Puget Sound can feel cold even in summer. Check the forecast right before your lesson and dress for rain, wind, and cool nights. Hypothermia can happen quickly on the water, so plan to stay warm and dry and bring extra layers.
Quick Layering Guidelines
- Base layer (next to skin): moisture-wicking fabric (polyester, polypropylene, wool). Avoid cotton.
- Mid layer (warmth): fleece, softshell, down, or synthetic insulation.
- Outer layer (weather): waterproof + breathable jacket and pants/bibs to block wind and spray.
Suggested Packing List | Day-based Lessons, Clinics, & Events
Clothing & Gear
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Base layer top and bottom
- 1–2 mid-layers (tops and/or bottoms)
- Sailing gloves and/or warm gloves
- Warm hat and/or sun hat
- 2 pairs non-cotton socks
- Closed-toe, non-slip, non-marking shoes
Sun / Comfort
- Sunglasses
- Lotion-style sunscreen (no aerosols — they can stain boats)
- Sun shirt
Food & Practical
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Seasickness remedies (if you’re prone)