Tradewinds Sailing School

Reviewers Male / Female	Recommend Yes / No	Number of Reviews	Classes & Instruction	School Facilities	Boats & Courses	Cost	Total Average Rating
58 / 29	85 / 2	87	9.66	9.24	9.20	9.60	9.43

Date Submitted:	July 5, 2008
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Good even without classes Did not take classes so cannot review them. Did take ASA tests and thought they were administered properly in excellent surroundings. The club-rental aspect is very good, suitable for a wide range of sailing interests. Owners/operators are friendly and knowledgeable. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Bill West 21 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Davis, CA

Date Submitted:	July 1, 2008
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	The best way on the Bay After a long hiatus from active sailing, I decided to "re-boot" and start from the beginning. I researched all the sailing schools in the SF Bay Area. On cost alone Tradewinds is way ahead of the rest in the San Francisco area. Their fleet program of paying a single monthly fee is incredible value. Not only can you go out sailing as often as you want, it also supports making sensible decisions when conditions are marginal. That's sometimes tough to do when you've shelled out hundreds of dollars for your day on the water. But cost is not the main reason I chose Tradewinds. After my online research I visited the "shortlisted" schools. What made Tradewinds stand out from the other fine schools is when Butch the owner told me that none of their instructors are Captain Blighs. That inspired me to learn how to skipper without verbally abusing my crew. Through all their classes (BKB, BCC, BBC and ACC) the instructors were all very pleasant, patient and knowledgeable. Not only were they all excellent sailors, they were excellent teachers. The Tradewinds staff (Butch, Matt and Brandy) have all been great to work with. They provide a welcoming and informal atmosphere. I'm very impressed with how well just the three of them manage a club and a fleet of this size. If your main interest is racing, there are other schools that closer fit the bill. The drill instructor approach these other schools are known for is probably more appropriate. However, if your focus is on cruising and learning to be a competent sailor, Tradewinds is the best bang for buck out there, and great people to know. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Chris Northcutt 58 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Francisco

Date Submitted:	June 30, 2008
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	More Than Just a Floating Living Room! I just completed the all women's Basic Keel Boat (BKB) class. It was an amazing experience and I cannot recommend it highly enough! Marianne, our instructor, was fantastic, along with the rest of the Tradewinds team we met. She was patient, knowledgable, encouraging--on top of being a highly skilled sailor. While I was once aprehensive about ever being able to learn how to sail, I now feel like I am on my way to becoming a competent sailor, and can't wait to take more classes! And even better...I now think of our boat as more than just a floating living room! Three cheers for Tradewinds! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Andrea Shukis 48 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   San Jose, CA

Date Submitted:	May 27, 2008
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	A Very Safe, supportive professional atmosphere We've only just joined the club and have finished our basic keelboat class, but I feel really well educated and well prepared. They do some great women's only classes. Family atmosphere that's fun but serious when they need to be. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Gusaroo 50 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Santa Rosa

Date Submitted:	April 21, 2008
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great school and people Instructors and staff are great. Very friendly and helpful. Their philosophy seems to be to make sailing FUN and accessible to everyone. Butch loves to sail and tries to impart that feeling to everyone. The classes were fun and relaxed while still teaching all the information. We have become friends with the staff and other members and gone on several of their group charters together. Through the club we have sailed in Tahiti, Greece, and The Grenadines. Their excellent instruction has given us the knowledge and confidence to charter and sail anywhere. The cost of membership and boat rental also makes it very affordable to sail. We have been members for ten years and plan on staying a lot longer. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Dale Petersen 60 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Fremont, CA

Date Submitted:	November 12, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Good outfit! I found this school to be a very good value for the basic 3-course cruising package in 2005. Very good instruction, good boat maintenance, and an effort on showing how to handle boats properly, with no shortcuts. They are expanding their fleet. Good monthly membership options, good service & support. Recommended! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Steve Marschke 44 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Davis

Date Submitted:	November 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	I love this school! From the moment I walked in to register for my first class, everyone was so friendly and extremely helpful. Our instructors-5 so far-have all been very knowledgeable, encouraging, respectful, pretty funny, and very very competent. None of them have ever yelled or panicked. They definitely know how to challenge you, make you think on your feet, and push you without making you feel pushed. I have learned so much from this place. It's also a great place for couples to take classes together and a great place for women! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Daryll Santuray 28 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Alameda, CA

Date Submitted:	October 16, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Suburban Princess Learns to Sail After years of sipping wine in the cockpit while everyone else had all the fun I talked my husband into the ASA basic keelboat course at Tradewinds Sailing School and Club, Brickyard Cove, Pt. Richmond. Our Instructor, Ken, was terrific as well as the rest of the staff we met. He was patient, thorough, encouraging, and an amazing sailor. By day 4 we were having fun, enjoying our increased confidence and well prepared for the ASA 101 exam. The Cat 22's were spunky and challenging for me (tiller dyslexia!) with the outboard/tiller action; but the experience was so positive we joined the Sailing Club and are taking the Coastal Cruising class next month. Great people, great equipment, competitive prices in a beautiful Marina. I don't think it gets any better than that. Thanks, Tradewinds! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Cheryl & Paul 50 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Benicia, CA

Date Submitted:	October 10, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Amazing Birthday gift!!! Sailing lessons at this school was the most amazing birthday gift I will ever receive. I met such amazing people and learned so much. We spent more time on the water than I expected to. It was a laid back/relaxed environment where everyone felt comfortable learning and making mistakes. I will definitely be back for more classes in the spring. Thank you so much. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Lisa 27 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   San Jose, CA

Date Submitted:	October 5, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	7 out of 10
Cost:	7 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	A good learning experience It has been a couple years since our classes, but the insturctors were good, knowledgeable, and thorough with each member of our group. It was challengeing when we moved the the second class to use a boat with a tiller, instead of steering wheel. One thing that is hard to improve on is the learning areas for sailing, just outside the marina. they are relatively free of interference and traffic. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Reed Schulze 59 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Davis

Date Submitted:	October 3, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	No
Review:	Great Very family oriented business, friendly staff. Excellent instructors, Bill is great. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Dennis Miner 57 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Hercules CA

Date Submitted:	October 2, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great people, great school, Price Performer! Great prices at a school with a number of great instructors and a complete program, including the club. A good variety of boats to train in, and a complete set of US Sailing courses to choose from. Women only classes too! I started with a great package deal (from the spring Sail Only show) for 3 US Sailing courses, and then joined the sailing club. Helpful, down to earth members, and a great flat fee program for all the days of sailing you can handle. A very positive experience from classes to boats to location, to the people. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Bob 58 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Walnut Creek

Date Submitted:	October 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great Place to Learn I have taken several courses with Tradewinds and have found the instructors excellent - very competent sailors with lots of knowledge and experience to impart. They have high standards and are also supportive. I have learned so much from the teachers and fellow sailors whom I've met through the club. I've now chartered boats for family vacations and it's opened up a whole new world and created many fond memories for my family. To be a "fleet" member is the best deal around - you can sail every day for less than what many clubs charge per rental. This way, you learn faster too. One way they keep the price lower than other clubs is that they have more older boats, but they keep them well maintained. The staff are friendly and always welcoming, helpful and encouraging. I'm grateful to TW for making it possible for me to sail. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Martha 54 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Orinda, CA

Date Submitted:	October 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Sailing is personal... so is Tradewinds! I started shopping for a school based on price and realized soon enough that the old saying of "You get what you pay for" holds true. A little more research revealed that Tradewinds was however an exception... They have excellent facilites, many and new boats, experienced instructors and very friendly staff at a great price. I completed their basic keelboat course and appreciated the fact that they wanted to build a relationship. In otherwords it is not a matter of pay for the class and bye-bye, they have numerous club events and trips to islands etc. One of the co-owners, Matt also helped me out once with a personal problem when I needed my membership to modified for a short period of time. Great school, great people, great price! Sign-up! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Quintin Smith 33 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Berkeley, CA

Date Submitted:	October 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Excellent Sailing School & Club I have nothing but great things to say about Tradewinds. The teachers are excellent, admin staff are excellent and the sailing club boats are safe and dependable. I've taken Basic Keel, Basic Coastal, Bareboat, Coastal Nav and Advanced Coastal Cruising. Tradewinds teaches real life boating skills to prep you for the ever changing winds on the Bay. I highly recommend them to anyone who wants to learn to sail. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Gene Filipi 38 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Pt. Richmond, CA

Date Submitted:	October 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great program- reasonable price! Tradewinds did a great job. Knowledgeable instructors, well maintained boats and great office staff. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Nathan Peruman 60 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Walnut Creek, CA 94597

Date Submitted:	September 30, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Best deal for the money Tradewinds is a great school. The staff and the instructors are excellent. Matt, one of the co-owners, is very talented, personable, and helpful. When my main fuse in my car burned out, Matt drove me all over Richmond to find a fuse without being asked to do so. It was after hours, late in the day, and I'm sure past his dinner time with his wife and young children. And he didn't know me from Adam. I had just met him. Now THAT is what I call customer service. The entire staff has that same attitude. Always positive, always helpful, always looking out for you. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Dan Begonia 61 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Francisco

Date Submitted:	September 30, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	8 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great for beginners to advanced I enjoyed getting my BKB certification and will be signing up for Basic Coastal Cruising this week. Boats are very well maintained and Skipper Butch is the real deal. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone seriously considering sailing. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Henry Alvarez 49 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Lafayette, CA

Date Submitted:	September 30, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Midweek BKB class Online searches of the many schools located in the S.F. bay area led me to Tradewinds. Based on the cost, class size, location to my home, positive reviews from many past and present students and vast number of instructors available I chose Tradewinds. I was not disappointed. The instructor for my class was the 2006 ASA Instructor of the Year! Great way to start a class in my opinion. Skills were taught and all 3 students had ample opportunity to learn and question Ed, our instructor, on any sailing topic we chose. Felt very comfortable on the boat performing any of the drills Ed asked me to do at the end of the three day class. Wind was never a problem on the bay as there was always a good blow. Who wants to learn to sail in light winds? Overcast mornings turned into beautiful afternoons of sunny 75 degree afternoons, 30 degrees cooler than my home in the valley. Hated to leave every day. Would recommend Tradewinds heartily to anyone interested in learning to sail Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	John 51 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Citrus Heights, CA

Date Submitted:	September 30, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Student Support My husband and I have taken three courses through Tradewinds and have to say that their student support is great. Butch, the owner is very responsive to feedback and gives advice when you ask for it. He even went along on the sea trial when we took a boat out that we were considering purchasing. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Deb & Greg 52 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Los Banos, CA

Date Submitted:	September 30, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Sailing Club review Tradewinds is first a sailing club that provides classes for it's members. I have been a member for 10 years and have taken 6 separate classes from Tradewinds and all have been excellent. They maintain a variety of boats versus one model and a number of sizes. Their website allows someone to find sailing partners and even specify experience level which is helpful for finding someone to sail with during the week or if your spouse doesn't enjoy the sport as much as you do. A great family club with a lot of fun people. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Wayne 60 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Concord, Ca

Date Submitted:	September 3, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Exactly What I Needed I wanted a basic class to help me catch up to my sailing husband. The Basic Keelboat Class--three 8-hour classes--was exactly what I needed. A 3-student women's class (they ran this class even though there were only 2 students) taught by a very experienced woman sailor sailed us through all the fundamentals--and much more--with classroom time and lots of hands-on experience. I worked hard, studied hard and went from being able to simply take orders to understanding sailing and being comfortable handling the boat myself. From motoring, tacking and jibing to MOB drills and heaving to, we learned it all in three beautiful days on San Francisco Bay and passed our ASA test. Tradewinds Staff are friendly and helpful, even allowing me to stay on their boats overnight betweeen classes to avoid commuting each day in traffic. Thanks, Tradewinds, for giving me the capability to be comfortable and competent on our boat, teaching me to communicate skillfully while sailing, and making me capable as a true partner on our cruises. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Joyce G 62 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Pittsburg, California

Date Submitted:	August 22, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great School, Great Sailing, Great People You'll find all of those at Tradewinds. The instruction I've received has been top-notch, with Steve Damm doing a fine job of adapting the course exercises to the skill of the participants. The sailing in the SF Bay is awesome, with lots of opportunities to experience different conditions. Most of all, the people at Tradewinds are the kind of folks you want to be around. They are concerned with your progress as a sailor and go to great lengths to make it a good experience. The people you meet through Tradewinds classes and events are also great. Highly recommend a relationship with this sailing school/club. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	John 54 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Dublin, CA

Date Submitted:	July 4, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Cannot Get Better There is no better school for sailing than Tradewinds. Why? Let us get into the cost. You cannot find one more reasonable. More, the boats in which one first learns are new Catalina 25s and the instruction is top-of-the-line. Now, as one steps up the boats are not all new, but there is variety which can only make one a better sailor. I think the best reason to study at Tradewinds is that they work out of love and not greed. The owners want you to succeed and want you to sail; they love what they are doing and it passes on down to the club members. They are always there to give you a helping hand, and this is very important when sailing in the SF Bay, a complex place to master. --Herman Haluza Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Herman Haluza 57 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Francisco, CA

Date Submitted:	May 21, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Awesome class and club Just finished my bareboat cruising class, and as always, I am thrilled with both Tradewinds and the instruction. Informative, smart and fun - it's really the perfect balance of essential know-how. The folks at Tradewinds provided a great service and atmosphere from the first day I walked through the front door, and out to their dock. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	peter 46 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Sacramento, California

Date Submitted:	May 14, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	7 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	8 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	basic nav Overall good class, ...but to many students (20) in too little time 2 days. there did make it up with extra 1 on 1 instruction at nc to pass the test. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Nhoa Genda 54 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Sacramento, Ca.

Date Submitted:	May 11, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Confidence Builder Having met scuba diving, my husband and I love the water. When we recently moved to the SF Bay area, we decided to take up sailing. The people at Tradewinds made it easy! We signed up for the three-course package and have completed two classes so far. I lacked confidence, but the patient and thorough instructors taught me that I really could do it. Butch, Brandy and Matt are wonderful; they provide excellent customer service. Boats are kept in good repair. I highly recommend Tradewinds. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	SR 60 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Richmond, CA

Date Submitted:	May 1, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	How to get your wife to love sailing Last year I took my wife to the Tradewinds office and introduced her to Brandy Kepner and Butch. It was the best thing I could have ever done to have a great sailing partner. We enrolled in their 3 lesson package and 10 months later we are both Bareboat Qualified Skippers. We love to sail the club boats, at least the ones over 27', and actively encourage others to use their program. We were a little disappointed they dropped the 3 class package, but after talking with Brandy we understand why they did. We were also blessed with some of their best Teachers, Steve Damn (what a patient man!)taught BKB, Ed Polkenhorn (He's forgotten more than I'll ever know) taught BCC, and Jerry Rouillard (The perfect person to teach us Bareboat, firm but empathetic). We are signed up for Advance Motoring and Docking in June. I has also completed their Coastal Navigation Class and will be taking ACC in June. So guys get your wives to the Tradewinds Office, you'll be amazed at the transition. See you on the water. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Gary & Nancy Cook 52 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   West Sacramento, CA

Date Submitted:	April 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	SAFETOGO Two years ago I visited Pacific Sail Expo and collected information from many of the sailing schools in the bay area. About a week after the show I sat with a friend, reviewing the sailing school information I collected at the show. Tradewinds' class format and pricing stood out to be a top choice. I explained to my friend about how friendly Brandy Kepner was when she provided me with information, so we both signed up for a three-pack of classes. It was one of the best choices we could have made. Two years later, I'm capable of sailing most of Tradewinds fleet. I feel safe with family and friends as my crew. Not only have I been rewarded from learning technical aspects of sailing, but the social experiences I've had while on a Tradewinds boat are some of the highest quality ones I've had my whole life. I'd recommend sailing to anyone, and I'd recommend Tradewinds as the place to learn. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	John Seals 49 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Kernville, CA

Date Submitted:	April 16, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	No Pressure The whole point of Butch and the Tradewinds staff is to make sailing accessible. Sailing has been a lifelong ambition for me but I had always thought sailing to be too expensive and something available only to the wealthy; you know, the Yacht Club crowd. Well, Tradewinds has changed that image and has provided the way for the less affluent to enjoy the sport as well. I have taken their ASA certified classes through Bareboat Charter and have never felt intimidated or less than capable. On the contrary, Butch and the staff have always worked to instill confidence while emphasizing safety. Now, when I am at the helm of my boat on the San Francisco Bay on a perfectly clear and sunny day, the crisp wind driving us, bucking, through the waves, I am living my dream and consider myself one of the luckiest people alive. I am so fortunate to have "discovered" Tradewinds and can't recommend them highly enough. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Ken 59 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Davis

Date Submitted:	April 11, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	No
Review:	Learn to sail with a personal touch My wife and I came to Tradewinds to learn to sail and we did. We have taken two courses so far and Emily Dean and Steve Damm put us right at ease learning how to sail properly and safely. The management staff of Butch, Brandy and Matt are first rate with their hands on nature that make us feel like we are part of the boating family. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Vince and Mary Carrillo 50 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Orinda, CA

Date Submitted:	April 10, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	All I needed to know about sailing I stared from scratch. I had never sailed before. Now I cruise fulltime in the Caribbean. Tradewinds get you ready for anything. All the boats are different so you 'learn the ropes' not just where a line 'should' be. You learn it all, including how to anchor (being out there it appears most people never learn that vital knowledge). All the people involved are wonderful. thank you guys. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	tove 51 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Berkeley, CA / Caribbean

Date Submitted:	April 3, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great for wives Sailing is a passion of my husbands. The staff at Tradewinds are very patient and supportive of wives in my position. I have particularly enjoyed the confidence I have gained from the women instructors they have and the ladies sail. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Barbara Johnston 53 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Santa Rosa, Ca 95404

Date Submitted:	April 3, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	A very satisfied customer Before I selected Tradewinds, I searched all the schools in the San Francisco bay area, and discovered that Tradewinds is the best school for the money. I have now taken six classes through Tradewinds and found the instructors to be knowledgeable, patient, and experienced. I will continue to take advanced classes as they are offered, and recommend Tradewinds to everyone who is interested in sailing. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Roy Johnston 57 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Santa Rosa, California

Date Submitted:	March 31, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Teaches competence and confidence I have been around Tradewinds for about 15 years as a student, member and boat owner. Obviously I have been happy with it or I wouldn't have stuck around. Tradewinds teaches you to become a good sailor in the often challenging conditions of San Francisco Bay. People are nice and friendly and know what they are doing. Some of the fleet is older but well maintained. Likewise, the offices/classroom is fine but not fancy -but its all about the boats, isn't it? As I boat owner, I feel confident with members using my boat because Tradewinds does a good job making sure people know what they're doing. The cost can't be beat. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Greg 52 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Folsom, CA

Date Submitted:	March 28, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Sailing Confidence The instruction and instructors at Tradewinds are superb. They are patient with their students. They prepare you well for the ASA certification tests. Most importantly, Tradewinds has instilled a level of confidence in me to be able to handle difficult situations that can occur on the SF Bay. Butch, Brandy, Matt, et. al. continue to support their members after the classes. I have on many occasions e-mailed, or telephoned, with what I was afraid was a stupid question. I receive a prompt response that is never demeaning. Regardless of your sailing skill, you can't go wrong with Tradewinds. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Marty 52 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Sacramento, Ca

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	World's best deal Tradewinds is the best deal I've ever seen. For a reasonable monthly fee, you get complete access to their fleet of boats (after you've gone through a free checkout on each boat). So not only do you learn about a lot of different boats, but you can go out for just a few hours, all day, or even overnight. It's like having your own boat for less than you would pay for slip fees. In addition, the instructors are all top notch, friendly , and have one goal in mind- to make you a competent sailor. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Jim R 59 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Anselmo, Ca

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Most affordable for classes and membership My husband and I took the classes together and they were very good about accommodating classes during the week. The location of their boats were convenient for sailing the bay or the delta. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Deborah 37 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   California

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great Instructors and Cost Efficient When I decided to learn more about sailing I researched most of the sailing schools in the Bay Area. Tradewinds was high on the list because of their low cost for instruction. Their low cost did not equate to low quality of instruction. That is the best part. The instructors are very good, they pass on their experience freely and you really learn what is important to becoming a safe and qualified sailor. I cannot tell you how many times sailing on the Bay I have seen foolhardy and dangerous moves by others in sailboats that I now know one should never do or how to avoid getting yourself into such a predicament. Tradewinds is a real jewel and at a reasonable cost. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Dave Munson 68 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Moraga, CA

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	New to sailing I didn't sail until 3 years ago when I turned 60. I researched all of the sailing schools in the bay area and Tradewind gave the most bang for the buck. What you can't find out in such research is how competant are the instructors, how patient, etc. What I found was a whole group of very competant, patient folks who love sailing and want the student to love it as well. Perfectly enjoyable. I have gone through 3 courses at Tradewinds, through Bareboating, had different instructors each time and have yet to be even remotely disappointed. If you want to learn how to sail with a great bunch of folks you can't go wrong at Tradewinds. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Steve Lorenz 62 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Los Gatos, Ca.

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Women Classes Only Are Fantastic I recently graduated from the BKB Women Only class. My instructor was Marianne Wheeler. She is a fabulous instructor, both in the classroom and on the water. I was nervous the first day of class but my instructor and classmates quickly made me feel at ease. After spending a short-time in the classroom going over basic things you need to know, we were out on the water. By the end of the first day, my classmates and I had come together as a team, performing the many skills and were sailing! The instructor (Marianne) is calm, knowledgable, and kept her cool no matter what we did or how bad our mistakes. She taught us that every mistake is a learning opportunity. We laughed, cheered and learned. What an awesome environment to learn! I love the Tradewinds owners and staff. They are very supportive, keep the boats in good working order, and manage the school very professionally. The classes are small and designed so that everyone in the class gets plenty of time to practice during each session. It's a very safe environment in which to learn to sail. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Gayle 51 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Windsor, CA

Date Submitted:	March 27, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Good place to start sailing My sailing insructor was Ed Podkelhorn. My boat was Catalina Capri. The course was 'Basic Keel Boat'. Ed explained everything very well. He is a good teacher - something that doesn't come across very often. The class alone is a great start but not enough. I am still working on my skills. Club's owner Butch was very helpfull. When I am next time in Bay Area I will definetelly take a course or take a boat from TradeWinds. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Stan Holodnak (Stanislaw Cholodnjak) 35 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   NYC

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great sailing school and club! Great instructors, atmosphere, solid safety core. Easy going with great atmosphere all geared towards learning and having fun! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Jim 49 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Bay area

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Fantastic School/Club ... Highly Recommend My husband and I both signed up for the first three ASA courses with Tradewinds, and we could not be happier with the quality of our instruction, the time on the water, or the out-of-the-way accommodations that the school owners always make. Since taking our first class we enrolled in the Tradewinds Sailing Club and have been out on the water every chance we could get since then. The classes are small, everyone gets personal attention, the instructors are phenomenal, and the classes are laid-back and comfortable with an emphasis on safety. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Aryn Pedersen 31 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   San Jose, California

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great Value, Friendly Folks, Epic Sailing Site I can't more highly recommend a sailing school to help you on your way to being a masterful sailor. The staff is family oriented, really fun, and safety conscious. The rates are great and the rental/membership fleet that they have is extensive and very reasonably priced. My wife and I both went from Basic Keelboat thru Bareboat Charter ASA certification with Tradewinds and were very happy the entire time. Happy Sailing! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Brant & Aryn 32 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Jose, CA, USA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great Place to Learn The People are great and everyone has a good time when we all get together. Lots of interest sailors in this group. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	bill 58 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   folsom

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	10 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Knowledgeable and friendly instructors I have had a great time learning at tradewinds. I would reccomend anyone to this school. The instructors are very patient and I have always had a lot of fun. When I finish a class I always feel very confident in my new skills and ready to go boating. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Melissa 38 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Oakland, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Great Training -- Great Price We took ASA 101,103, 104 and 105 from the Tradewinds sailing school. The instructors were first rate, always ready to give you just the help you needed but not doing the course for you. The instructors had high expectations and you found yourself wanting to live up to them and to be part of the Tradewinds Family. I took ASA 106 from another school and the difference was night and day. The instructor didn't care and the prices were considerably higher than those charged by Tradewinds. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Jerry 58 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Cape Coral, Florida (currently)

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Tradewinds is great I had sailed my 21' trailer sailer for many years before I decided to take the Tradewinds classes. The idea was that I could get certified for bareboat charters, and get my son to learn more about sailing. I thought I already knew how to sail. I learned so much in the classes, I was amazed. My son became a good sailor too. I joined the boat rental club, and for three years enjoyed sailing a variety of boats at a very reasonable cost. Later, I bought a 30' boat, which is now also a part of the rental fleet. As a fleet boat owner, I appreciate all the help I get from Tradewinds in maintaining and servicing the boat. I am a happy customer ! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Mike Miller 55 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Glen Ellen, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	8 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Sail with confidence, the Tradewinds way! I have acquired most of my ASA certifications through Tradewinds, including instructor certifications. Tradewinds' fleet is extensive, and well-maintained. The staff are knowledgable and willing to discuss any aspect of sailing or boat handling/maintenance. In addition, the familiy atmosphere is very welcoming. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Cap'n Q 35 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Nevada City, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	good send off my wife and i took the asa classes for bareboat at tradewinds. we took 2 years to compleat the 3 part course.as we were learning, we were sailing their various boats and learning the way each different one sailed. working our way up to 32" boats and sailing more exciting area of san francisco bay. 4 years ago we took our tradewinds experiance and put it on a boat of our own.which we are sailing around the caribbean. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	sid 68 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   usv Blue Moon in panama

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Best on the bay I have been a member of Tradewinds for 10 years. They maintain the boats better than any sail school on San Franisco bay. The instructors are the best. The trips are great. Courses range from basic keel boat to Ocean Passage with celestial navigation. This club can not be beat. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Bill Carmody 56 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Sacramento, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Setting Sail In 2000, I decided to give up mountain climbing for sailing. Only trouble was I didn't know how to sail. I learned about Tradewinds at a local boat show and was impressed with their philosophy, curriculum, the knowledge and experience of their instructors and the friendly staff. In the past 7 years, I have taken 5 classes and have ASA certification in Basic Keelboat, Basic Coastal Cruising, Bareboat Chartering and Coastal Navigation. Tradewinds gave me the skills and confidence to successfully skipper boats in the Caribbean and Tahiti and in November I will be a crew member on a 1,400 mile trans oceanic voyage from Australia to New Zealand. They also gave me the inpsiration to continue to learn all I can about sailing, a life long endeavor. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Jackie S. 64 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Oakland, California

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	9 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Tradewinds Sailing School Tradewinds has an excellent ASA instruction program coupled with reasonably priced club membership, including an online reservation system, that encourages frequent sailing. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Tony 70 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Rafael, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	10 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Tradewinds is the Best in the Bay Area I investigated sailing schools in the Bay Area before finding Tradewinds. Some of them call themselves the best. But what I learned is that some support a racing philosophy with a pass fail approach and some, like Tradewinds, focus on cruising and turning out competent and successful sailors. I am so glad I went with Tradewinds. I took a women's class, had a fantastic woman teacher with lots of sailing experience. I now belong to the Tradewinds sailing club and go sailing on their boats with my husband once a week. I am a Fleet member, which means the monthly cost of sailing is less than a slip would cost. The location in Pt. Richmond is also called the Richmond Riviera meaning that the weather is great. Tradewinds helped me to fullfill my dream of sailing the S.F. Bay. They are the BEST!!! Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Jan Singer 56 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Lafayette, Ca.

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	9 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Womens Class Rocks When I began the Womens Basic Keel Boat Class I had been sailing less than a year and I was very tentative about my sailing skills. This class taught me everything I needed and wanted to learn and so much more, all the while having great fun. Our instructor, Marianne is the best. All the staff is very helpful and friendly. I look forward to taking my next class at Tradewinds. In the mean time, I will sail with confidence. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Marie O. 49 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   Napa, CA, USA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	7 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Thank you Tradewinds I started my first Tradewinds class three years ago. I didn't know how to sail at all before my first class. Really zero experience. The only thing I knew how to do on a boat was to get sea sick. After taking the basic three classes I feel I can sail just about anywhere. And well I haven’t signed up the TransPac yet it is only a matter of time. The basic sailing skills I learned from the instructors at Tradewinds provided me with an excellent foundation. Well there is no substitute for experience on the water the tips I learned from the Tradewinds instructors have help me time and time again. I highly recommend the school and I have nothing but good things to say about everyone associated with the school. The bad news is that now I am addicted to sailing and hold Tradewinds total responsible for this condition! I go sailing at least twice a week and often three and four times. Frankly I can’t get enough. One more thing to note: It is more cost effective to go sailing on TW’s boats that to buy your own. I know and while I enjoy owning Luna Sea, boat ownership comes with a entire new set of problems that only takes away from time spend sailing. If you are a Tradewinds member you can go sailing everyday and leave all the maintenance issue to them. A big thank you to Butch and everyone at TW’s from this little corner of Pier 39. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Dan Knox 54 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Francisco

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Tradewinds - a great way to start I was self taught in an 18 ft Buccaneer, but decided to get real knowledge before bareboating. Tradewinds was perfect for me, and I continue to enjoy their vacation charters and teaching courses to this day. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Tony Hitchings 55 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   San Mateo, CA, USA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	9 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Best Value In The San Francisco Bay Area There are plenty of sailing oportunities in the Bay Area, but Tradewinds Sailing School, does the best job in providing quality ASA instruction, facilities, and boats, at a very affordable price to both new and experience sailors. I know a lot of sailors like myself that never would have had the opportunity to learn and experience sailing if it were not for Tradewinds Sailing School. Since joining Tradewinds three years ago, I have completed my ASA courses through Bareboat, I have chartered with other people and clubmembers to Catalina Island, Tahiti and Greece. I have also participated in the 2005 Trans Pacific Yacht race to Hawaii, and most recently I crewed with other Tradewinds members onboard Barking Spider 3, the first place winner of the " Salsa Spinnaker Division" in the 2007 Los Angelas to Puerta Vallarta ocean race. Am I happy that I joined Tradewinds? The answer, of course, is YESSSS! The folks that run this school are great people and they know what they are doing. They work very hard at providing quality instruction and equipment for their students and club members. Thank you, Joe Rivera Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	Joe Rivera 58 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   Benicia, California

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	10 out of 10
School Facilities:	8 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	8 out of 10
Cost:	10 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Excellent SF Bay Area Sailing School and Club I did a lot of research prior to taking classes at and eventually joining Tradewinds as a member. I've highly recommended this club to others interested in sailing and would continue to do so. I feel very comfortable sailing in nearly any conditions-- I credit the range of classes offered, the excellent instructors and the access to various different make and models of boats to sail. Some of the boats are aging, but are very well maintained. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	DebbieR 29 year-old   ::   Female Reviewer   ::   San Francisco, CA

Date Submitted:	March 26, 2007
Sailing School:	Tradewinds Sailing School
Location:	CA - Richmond, United States
Classes & Instruction:	8 out of 10
School Facilities:	7 out of 10
Boats & Courses:	7 out of 10
Cost:	9 out of 10
Recommend:	Yes
Review:	Very good school and charter fleet Caters mostly to those who want to learn to do local area, short-term cruising. Mostly middle-class members. A relaxed, fun club, lots of activities. The classes are very well designed and delivered. The instructors are (mostly) very good. The fleet is aging but is well-maintained. The staff are friendly and efficient. If you learn to sail at this school, you will become a safe and competent day-cruiser. Comments [ 0 ]
Submitted by:	anon 48 year-old   ::   Male Reviewer   ::   SF Bay Area