Sailing Schools Near St. Pete

[yellowtail]

Hi all,

My girlfriend and I are going to St. Pete Beach in Florida for a week in late September. We are both new to sailing and would like to take a course (ASA 101), and I was looking at www.sailingflorida.com. I also looked at Colgate's program, but I think she will be more comfortable on a larger boat (would keep her interest better I believe). Ultimately our goal is to become certified to rent a bareboat in that area as well as BVI's once we have enough experience/miles.

Does anyone have any experience/recommendations on these schools? What Captain I should request?

Your input will be greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks!

Doug

[knothead]

Try Annapolis. They have a pretty good rep.

Annapolis Sailing School - Tampa Bay

[denverd0n]

I took a course from sailingflorida.com and was very pleased. I can recommend them.

[Ashoreschool]

Not sure if this is too late, when picking a school, you may want to also want to consider what will be YOUR first boat. There is a difference between sailing with a tiller, and sailing with a wheel. If you are liking to buy a 22-25 foot boat with a tiller, suggest you learn on that. If your looking at larger 30-33 foot boats, you'll probably want to take classes on a 30 footer (typically the ASA max for a 101 class) with a wheel and auxilary power.