30 Years of Training Tradition

The Polish Sailing Club of New York has been conducting sailing training programs since 1991. Courses are delivered in accordance with the standards established by the Training Committee of the Polish Sailing  Association (PZŻ), and classes are led by state-certified instructors.

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Training has always been, and continues to be, one of the Club’s core priorities. Over the past 30 years, the Club has trained more than 200 new sailors and yacht skippers. The commitment of our instructors and board members has paid off—participants gain not only official licenses, but also practical experience, often going on to sail their own yachts.
 

How Does the Course Work?

Training for the Yacht Sailor and Yacht Skipper certifications consists of two components:
Theory
•    Classes are conducted by a certified instructor
•    Each participant receives a textbook, preparing them for the PZŻ examination
•    A series of lectures concluded with a review test
•    Instruction in maritime regulations, safety procedures, yacht construction, meteorology, and communications.

Practical Training
•    On-the-water training under the direct supervision of an instructor
•    Hands-on instruction in yacht handling and navigation
•    Strong emphasis on safety and independent seamanship
 

Course Structure in 2026

We meet on Saturdays at 10:00 AM at City Island Yacht Club.
Theoretical classes last 2–3 hours and take place in the clubhouse. Afterwards, under instructor supervision, practical training on the water continues until 5:00 PM.

On-the-water sessions are conducted primarily on Long Island Sound aboard 30–34 foot yachts.
For those interested, additional Sunday sails may be available, as our yachts often have open berths.

Additionally, at DiMeglio Marina in Brooklyn, we have several member-owned yachts and a centerboard boat of the Americana type, which serves as an ideal vessel for beginners’ first contact with the water and sailing fundamentals.

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For participants seeking to obtain the Yacht Master Offshore certification, we plan to provide the opportunity to accumulate the required 200 sea hours aboard our 44-foot club yacht s/y ARGOS.

A multi-day voyage will be a true school under sail.

The course lasts approximately 8–10 weeks.

The state examination is organized at CIYC by instructors authorized by PZŻ. Participants register independently through the Polish Yachting Association website and pay the administrative examination fee (approximately $30 in 2024).

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After passing both the theoretical and practical components, each participant receives official confirmation of exam completion, which is submitted to PZŻ. Following verification—typically within one month—the license is mailed directly to the participant.

Invitation

The Polish Sailing Club of New York is more than sails and water—it is people, shared passion, and a living tradition.
We welcome everyone who loves the water, sailing, and camaraderie—regardless of age or experience.

If you are just beginning your sailing journey, this is the perfect place to learn from the ground up in a supportive and professional environment.

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From beginner to racer—catch the wind in your sails and join our crew!