Patagonia Sailing School

Plan to arrive in Puerto Montt the day before your course begins. Puerto Montt's El Tepual Airport (PMC) has direct flights from Santiago (about 90 minutes), making it one of the most accessible gateways to Patagonia. International travelers typically connect through Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez Airport. We recommend arriving a day early to acclimate and explore this vibrant port city—the seafood market alone is worth the visit. We can help arrange accommodation at local hotels.

Your course concludes by early afternoon on Day 7, giving you time to catch evening flights back to Santiago. Multiple daily flights make connections easy. Many graduates extend their stay to explore the Lakes District, visit the charming German-influenced towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar, or take the famous ferry journey south through the fjords. Your instructor can recommend options based on your interests.

Patagonia's weather is famously variable—that's actually part of the education. During the sailing season (November to March), you'll experience everything from calm, sunny passages to bracing 25-knot winds funneling through channels. Temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F) in summer. We sail in all but the most extreme conditions, and our experienced instructors know these waters intimately. The unpredictability teaches adaptability—a skill that serves you everywhere.

Patagonia demands preparation: thermal base layers (merino wool recommended), fleece mid-layers, waterproof outer shell (jacket and pants), warm hat, gloves, and buff. Bring waterproof boots or sailing boots with good grip. Sunglasses are essential—glare off the water is intense. Pack quick-dry clothing, a headlamp, and a small dry bag for electronics. We provide foul weather gear if needed. Most importantly: leave cotton at home. Bring camera gear for once-in-a-lifetime shots of volcanoes, palafitos, and wildlife.

Absolutely—our ASA 101 course assumes zero prior experience. While Patagonia is a challenging environment, it's also an incredibly effective teacher. The conditions here demand presence and attention, which accelerates learning remarkably. Your instructor maintains a progressive approach, building skills systematically and never putting you in situations beyond your developing abilities. Many of our most successful graduates arrived as complete beginners and left as genuinely confident sailors.

Expedition sailing builds serious appetites, and we provision accordingly. Before departure, we stock the boat with hearty provisions: fresh produce, quality proteins, local cheeses, Chilean wines, and plenty of snacks. Meals are crew-cooked and surprisingly excellent—think warming stews, grilled lamb, fresh-baked bread, and celebratory asados. We accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Local specialties include centolla (king crab) when available. Coffee is always strong and always flowing.

You'll work toward ASA 101 (Basic Keelboat Sailing), ASA 103 (Basic Coastal Cruising), and ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising) certifications. Your instructor evaluates your progress throughout the week through practical assessments—no written exams, just demonstrated competence. These certifications are internationally recognized and qualify you for ICC/IPC international certification. More importantly, you'll have genuinely earned them in conditions that prove your capabilities. Charter companies worldwide respect Patagonian credentials.