In the News
Welcome to our media highlights hub, where we share recent news stories, articles, and features about the Boston Sailing Center. From local publications to national outlets, explore how others are telling the story of our community, our programs, and life on Boston Harbor.
A sailor's life for you: A beginner's guide to sailing in Boston
Operating a sailboat isn’t like renting a kayak. The watersport has enough jargon to warrant its own glossary, and you’ll need to complete a training course before you can take the helm. But all in all, “it’s not that hard,” Bryan said. “It just takes a lot of patience and understanding that there’s a lot of variables.”
Boston Sailing Center, which launches onto the harbor out of Lewis Wharf, also offers an introductory sailing program that comes with a monthlong student membership for a one-time fee of $1,200. Their program totals 22 hours of instruction, which you can either take over a weekend, over four weeks or over a singular vacation week. Bryan says the center’s courses are well suited for complete beginners or people who might have sailed as kids and need a refresher.
Sail Boston 250 is coming up. Here's where to learn to sail.
The Boston Sailing Center, New England’s oldest sailing school on Boston Harbor, provides courses accredited by the American Sailing Association.
For novices, the Learn to Sail course is the recommended starting point, where the primary objective is for students to become comfortable sailing within Boston Harbor and the Boston Harbor Islands National Park. The curriculum covers safe harbor navigation, including managing ship traffic, weather planning, boat handling, and sail trim.
In addition, the Boston Sailing Center offers private lessons for those who prefer not to commit to a full course. Members also have access to various seminars provided throughout the sailing season as they become available.
Profile: Jeanne Goussev Sails Like a Girl, Lives Like a Wolf
Jeanne’s sailing journey began at the Boston Sailing Center, where a simple nudge from her father sparked a lifelong passion. Under the mentorship of BSC founder and world champion Dave Franzel, she immersed herself in competitive sailing – from precision tuning in the Sonar fleet to braving hurricane-force conditions on offshore deliveries. The BSC also led her to her future husband, Evgeniy, and set the stage for her offshore racing ambitions. Years later, the pair found their dream boat, Gray Wolf – a rare, high-performance racer-cruiser that challenges and inspires Jeanne every time she takes the helm.
Boston Does Water Sports Right
In “Boston Does Watersports Right,” Boston Sailing Center is recognized as one of the city’s premier destinations for getting on the water. Departing from Lewis Wharf in the North End, BSC offers sweeping skyline views and a range of programs for sailors at every level – from introductory harbor courses to advanced coastal cruising and nighttime sailing. The article also highlights BSC’s vibrant community, including member regattas and social events that bring Boston’s sailing scene together.
A New Year of Sailing
In “A New Year of Sailing,” Adam Cort reflects on how the Boston Sailing Center kept the spirit of sailing alive during the pandemic. While much of the sailing world shut down, BSC’s dedicated staff and reliable Soling fleet offered safe, consistent access to Boston Harbor – providing comfort, escape, and community when it was needed most. Cort credits the BSC team for their hard work, strict safety measures, and commitment to keeping people on the water. As he looks ahead to a new season, he celebrates the resilience of sailors, the arrival of newcomers, and the renewed excitement for getting back out on the harbor.
What It's Like to Be a Sailmaker
This Boston Magazine profile spotlights Francois Asselin, the Boston Sailing Center’s longtime head sail maker and a true craftsman of the sailing world. Outside of teaching on Lewis Wharf, Francois creates handmade sails from his 1,700-square-foot loft in Weymouth – measuring, cutting, and sewing each one the traditional way. With decades of experience and a passion for preserving the art of sailmaking, he brings both expertise and artistry to the BSC community.
Frostbiting in New England: Sailing in the Winter Months
“Frostbiting in New England” highlights the Boston Sailing Center’s winter racing program, where sailors navigate icy decks, cold winds, and snow-covered boats aboard the center’s J/24 fleet. The article emphasizes the skill, preparation, and camaraderie required for winter racing, showcasing BSC’s commitment to providing year-round sailing opportunities and fostering a dedicated racing community.
The Gourmet Galley
“The Gourmet Galley” takes readers aboard the Boston Sailing Center as Chef Nate Gibson of Waban Kitchen tackles the challenge of cooking with limited provisions in a small sailboat galley. The article showcases creativity, resourcefulness, and the fun of cooking at sea, highlighting how even basic ingredients can be transformed into inventive, flavorful meals. It’s a celebration of sailing life, teamwork, and making the most of what’s on hand in Boston Harbor.
Cooking Aboard Sailboat
“Cooking Aboard Sailboat” explores life at the Boston Sailing Center through the eyes of Helen and Dave Bryan, who combine their love of sailing with a passion for food and family. The article highlights how thoughtful planning and creativity make meals at sea both practical and enjoyable, showing that with the right ingredients and preparation, fresh, delicious dishes can be served even on a small sailboat. It’s a glimpse into BSC’s welcoming community and the lifestyle of sailors who embrace the harbor – and the galley – as part of their adventure.