Step aboard knowing the basics.
Get to know the boat, understand the wind, and learn your role as crew. See it, practise it, then check what you remember.
No account or card needed to start.
Get the iPhone app Meet your boat
From the first module
See how it works
Boat models and diagrams make the sailing language tangible.
Put it into practice
Questions help you apply what you’ve just learned.
Know what to revisit
Quiz explanations help you understand each answer.
Sailing lessons.
On your iPhone.
Explore the boat, practise the basics and check what you remember. Your next lesson is in your pocket.
First module free.
In-app purchases available.
Start free. Keep going when you’re ready.
86 lessons across 12 modules, from boat language to life aboard. Both paid plans include the full course.
First module
Free
10 lessons and their quizzes. Create an account to save progress. No card needed.
Start Module 1 freeWebsite prices in USD. Website lifetime purchases include a 14-day refund window. App Store prices are shown in your local storefront, and Apple handles refunds for in-app purchases. Read the billing terms.
See all 12 modules
- Welcome aboard: the boat10 lessonsFree
- How sailing works7 lessonsFull course
- Before you sail9 lessonsFull course
- Powering up: setting & trimming sails11 lessonsFull course
- Turning the boat6 lessonsFull course
- Docking & driving under power8 lessonsFull course
- Weather7 lessonsFull course
- Rules of the road6 lessonsFull course
- Calling & being heard4 lessonsFull course
- Finding your way7 lessonsFull course
- When things go wrong6 lessonsFull course
- Staying put: anchoring & mooring5 lessonsFull course
Prepare for your time on the water.
Start with Module 1 to see the visual lessons and practice questions. Quiz answers include explanations, and published guides link to their sources.
SailStarter teaches sailing terminology and theory. Practical instruction and time aboard are still part of learning to sail.
How we build the coursePrefer to read first?
Find an answer about your first sail, boat ownership, chartering or a sailing skill.
Browse the sailing guidesBefore you start
What can I try for free?
Module 1 includes visual lessons, practice and quizzes. Create a free account to save your course progress. No credit card is needed.
What does the paid course include?
Both plans include all 86 live lessons, their quizzes and progress tracking. Monthly access renews until you cancel. Lifetime access is one payment with no renewal. Website prices are in US dollars. The App Store shows the price and currency for your storefront.
Can I learn on my iPhone?
Yes. Download SailStarter from the App Store for iPhone, or learn in your web browser. The first module is free on both. Subscriptions and refund requests for purchases made in the iPhone app are managed through Apple.
Does this replace practical sailing instruction?
No. SailStarter teaches terminology and theory so you can follow what happens aboard. Boat handling needs practice on the water with qualified instruction. SailStarter does not issue a sailing certification.
Can I choose what to learn?
Yes. Follow the recommended order or open any lesson included in your access. Retake quizzes whenever you want to check what you remember.