Sailing Courses & Certifications
Earn your internationally recognized sailing certification while exploring the Caribbean and Mediterranean
Imagine earning your internationally recognized sailing certification while sailing through some of the world’s most stunning destinations.
Our courses take you to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and the historic coastlines of the Mediterranean, where you’ll learn aboard modern catamarans and monohulls.
Picture yourself anchoring in secluded coves, exploring coastal villages, and immersing yourself in local culture—all while mastering the skills you need to bareboat charter anywhere in the world.
Learn to bareboat charter in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean or navigating the historic coastlines of Croatia and Greece. You’ll return home with the credentials to sail anywhere in the world and memories of an adventure that goes far beyond the classroom.
The vacation of a lifetime with a certification to show for it!
Experience the Adventure
See what awaits you on our sailing courses – from stunning destinations to hands-on learning moments
IYT Courses
At Lowtide Sailing, all our courses are offered using the International Yacht Training (IYT) curriculum. IYT is arguably the most widely respected and recognized yacht training company in the world, ensuring your certification holds true value wherever your sailing adventures take you.
Our Captains
Our IYT certified instructors are experienced sailing yacht captains with a combined 50,000+ sea miles. Learn from seasoned professionals who bring real-world expertise and a passion for sailing to every lesson.
Courses Offered
Become the Captain
Certify students to plan and execute a week-long coastal sailing trip on a 35-50′ yacht. The certification (ICC) from this course qualifies the holder to bareboat charter a sailing yacht up to 60′ long in almost any country.
Course Highlights:
- Master close quarters maneuvering and docking
- Practice man overboard rescue procedures
- Navigate marinas and anchorages with confidence
What You’ll Love: Students will get tons of wheel time to practice close quarters maneuvering to gain confidence with docking, anchoring, navigating marinas, and man overboard situations.
Optional Certifications: IYT Bareboat Skipper, ICC, VHF Radio Operator
Intermediate Sailing
Certify students to command a vessel for coastal daysailing. Perfect for those who want to gain confidence and experience before taking on multi-day passages.
Course Highlights:
- Take full command of the vessel
- Make all sailing and navigation decisions
- Perfect sail trimming and boat handling
What You’ll Love: Students will have the chance to be in full command of the boat, and make decisions on everything from where to sail, where to anchor, to how to trim the sails, under the guidance of the instructor.
Optional Certification: IYT Day Skipper
Intro to Sailing
Build basic sailing skills and knowledge. Perfect for complete beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of sailing and boat life.
Course Highlights:
- Steer under engine and sail
- Master essential sailing knots
- Learn boat systems and daily operations
What You’ll Love: Students will learn the basics of being a crew member: steering the boat under engine and sail, tying essential knots, and learning all about boat life.
Optional Certification: IYT International Crew
More info can be found at: www.IYTworld.com/courses
Part of the IYT partner school
Expeditional Sailing
Ready to Start Your Sailing Journey?
Have Questions? Send Us an Inquiry
Prefer to Talk? Book a Free Consultation
- Discuss course options
- Get personalized recommendations
- Ask questions directly
- No obligation
Phone/WhatsApp: +1 (301) 525-5106
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any sailing experience to take a course?
Absolutely not! Our Intro to Yacht Sailing course is specifically designed for complete beginners. We welcome students with zero prior experience and teach all the fundamentals from the ground up, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident on the water.
What can I do with an IYT certification?
IYT (International Yacht Training) certifications are globally recognized and respected, opening up a world of sailing opportunities. The IYT Bareboat Skipper certification, for example, is often the credential you need to charter (rent) and captain your own yacht for sailing vacations in destinations like the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
Can I join a course by myself?
Yes, many of our students join as individuals. Our courses are a fantastic way to meet like-minded people who share a passion for adventure and the sea. The collaborative environment on board means you’ll be working as a team and will likely leave with new friends and future sailing buddies.
What is included in the course price?
The course fee covers your professional instruction, accommodation on the yacht for the duration of the course, all necessary safety equipment, and fuel. It does not typically include travel to/from the starting location, food and drinks (which are usually provisioned as a group), or the IYT certification fees, which are paid separately upon successful completion.
What is the main difference between the Day Skipper and Bareboat Skipper courses?
The IYT Day Skipper course prepares you to command a small yacht in familiar, local waters during daylight hours. It’s perfect for gaining the confidence to take a boat out for the day. The IYT Bareboat Skipper course is significantly more advanced; it equips you with the skills for multi-day coastal voyages, including overnight anchoring, passage planning, and boat management, qualifying you to charter yachts for week-long trips on your own.
How physical is a sailing course?
Sailing requires a moderate level of physical fitness. You’ll be involved in activities like pulling lines (ropes), turning winches, and moving around a boat that can be in motion. However, you don’t need to be a top athlete. A reasonable level of mobility and a willingness to be hands-on are the most important things.

Schedule Your Call With Our Expert Trip Designers
Ready to bring your group yacht charter dreams to life?
Our expert trip designers are here to make it happen. During your free consultation, we’ll explore your crew’s perfect destinations, match you with the right yacht and trip style, and create a custom plan that fits your group’s budget.
Our team knows exactly how to transform your vision into an unforgettable adventure. Skip the stress of planning and let us handle the details while you focus on getting your crew excited for the journey ahead.
Ready to Set Sail?
Contact us to learn more about our sailing adventures and book your unforgettable journey!