Tradewinds Sailing School |
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| 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: | 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 |
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