Sailing on Flathead Lake FAQs for First Time Sailors
Going out for your first time sailing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Go Sail Flathead Lake is here to set you up for success on board. If you find yourself dreaming of sailing the open water but are hesitating to get started, here are our answers to your sailing FAQs for beginners:
Is learning to sail difficult?
Like learning any new skill, learning to sail can be challenging. However, for those of us who love it, the challenges are what makes sailing rewarding. You can learn to manage a small boat quite quickly in ideal weather conditions, but larger vessels and imperfect conditions make sailing more difficult. The combination of formal instruction and lots of practice is what transforms a beginner into an expert. No one ever knows it all, but those of us who are passionate about sailing never stop trying.
Why should I get ASA certified?
The American Sailing Association’s classes are commonly considered the most efficient way to learn to sail. Their comprehensive lessons start at the beginner level and continue to advanced topics. Learning the proper way to sail is safer than teaching yourself because it prevents mistakes that can be dangerous and expensive. That is why gaining ASA certification can earn advantages with insurance and charter companies. You can take our ASA 101 course with no previous experience.
Can I take a sailboat ride without having to take Learn to Sail courses?
Yes! We offer captained tours of Flathead Lake so you can enjoy the scenery and act as unofficial crew while you do. You can take the tour without prior sailing experience or use it as a refresher class. It’s a great way to try first time sailing without a large commitment of time or money. The tour does not include any certification.
How old do you have to be to learn to sail?
To take ASA courses you need to be fifteen years old. However, Go Sail Flathead Lake takes passengers on captained charters as young as five years old!
Is Flathead Lake a good place to learn to sail?
Absolutely! Flathead Lake offers calm water, steady winds, and limited boat traffic for stress-free practice. But you will also find unparalleled natural beauty in every corner! Because the lake is surrounded by six state parks, there is endless wildlife spotting, untouched nature, and fresh air.
What should I bring with me on a sailboat?
Make sure to have a water bottle to fill up before setting out, sunscreen, and clothing in layers for the weather on the sailboat with you. Remember it is 10-15 degrees cooler on the water to dress warmer than you think. Deck shoes or tennis shoes are acceptable on Go Sail Flathead Lake sailboats. No need to bring a life jacket if you are sailing with Go Sail Flathead Lake! We provide USCG-approved Type II life jackets and federally required safety equipment. Keep in mind, Go Sail does not provide anything to eat during charters or lessons, so make sure you have enough food with you. Alcoholic beverages are allowed as long as everyone operating the boat is below the legal BAC of 0.08.
Are there yacht clubs on Flathead Lake that I can join?
Yes! Joining a yacht club and attending their events, even if it’s just as a spectator, is a great way to get involved in Flathead Lake sailing and to network with others who share your interests. Both the North Flathead Yacht Club and the South Flathead Yacht Club host social events and races and are full of useful resources for beginners.
Can I learn to sail on Flathead Lake at any time of the year?
Not quite! We offer sailing lessons from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend (as long as the weather cooperates). Flathead Lake freezes over in the winter so you won’t find even the most skilled sailor out on the water!
What happens if there is bad weather on the day of my lesson or charter?
Safety is our top priority, so if the weather might be unsafe for sailing, we will cancel the reservation and send you a gift card for the value of your lesson or charter so that you can rebook it for another date.
Don’t let your fear of first time sailing prevent you from taking the plunge any longer! Check out Go Sail Flathead Lake sailing options to get started this season!