When do the lessons begin?
Lessons take place in several sessions throughout the summer, starting in late April and ending in August. For more exact dates, check the calendar.
How long do the lessons take?
Lessons are offered in two formats – weekday and weekend courses. Weekday courses start at 6pm and end at sundown (followed by a group dinner). Weekend courses begin at 10am and end at 4pm. Both courses take 6 weeks.
How much does each lesson cost?
Classes cannot be paid for on an individual basis. The cost of your White Sail lessons is just $60 plus membership. (Note: these costs cannot be separated -- after all, we want you to learn how to sail, then use our boats all summer long to practice your skills!)
What do I need to bring?
Your first lesson will be an on-land session where we will review the necessary clothing you will need for your course. That means, all you need to bring is yourself (and a little sense of adventure.)
I’ve sailed on big boats – do I still need lessons?
While many sailing fundamentals are the same, experience on one type of boat does not necessarily guarantee success sailing another. In fact, if you do have experience on other types of boats, your previous sailing experience will likely enrich your White Sail III lessons.
For those new members who possess substantial sailing experience, J-Town will conduct an “Old Salts Test” which assesses sailing ability. Members must demonstrate ability of at least a White Sail III level to be able to take any J-Town boats without an experienced sailor.
How do I join?
In person: Come to the clubhouse. There is an open house every Saturday and Sunday from mid April till July. There will be friendly and helpful volunteers on hand to show you around and sign you up.
Online: Click here to go to our website join page. From there you will be directed to our safe, secure PayPal page. You don’t need a PayPal account -- just follow the instructions for a one-time transaction
Is there a group discount?
Sorry, our prices are already as low as we can possibly make them. But please, bring your friends – the more the merrier!
I can’t make it to every class. Will I still pass?
Class attendance is essential to successfully passing the White Sail III course. All students learn at a different pace – some students are able to miss a class and still pass the course while others require the full course. Ultimately, no matter how fast you learn, the more time you spend on water (whether in class or outside of class) the better your chances are of passing the White Sail course and becoming a confident sailor!
Can I bring my spouse/kids/dog?
Absolutely! As a member, you are welcome to bring guests whether it be for a sail, a social event, or just to sit on the deck in the sun. Friends or family of J-Town members may purchase a social membership which is a great value and gives them full access to the J-Town “little cottage in the city” lifestyle. Dogs, unfortunately are not allowed in the boats, and must be leashed!
Click here for our guest policy
Where are you located?
Please click here to view a map.
How much does it cost?
Please click here to view our rates.
Can I take the classes without joining?
Sorry, only full members can take the classes.
How much does it cost to sail after the classes are finished?
Nothing! Nada! Not one cent! Once you have paid for your membership, you can sail, and sail, and sail some more.
I learned to sail at summer camp, Do I need to take your lessons?
If you already know how to sail, we can arrange for an “Old Salts” test, which will test to ensure your sailing abilities are at least a White Sail III level. (However, the lessons are extremely affordable, so why not take advantage of them and meet some new people!)