Tahiti Sailing School
Picture this: you're at the helm of a stunning yacht, navigating the crystal-clear waters of Tahiti with a crew of newfound friends by your side. The warm breeze carries the scent of exotic flowers, and the sun dances on the waves ahead.
This isn't just a dream. It's the ultimate sailing adventure with our Tahiti Sailing School!
Tahiti, French Polynesia
French Polynesia is a paradise that redefines beauty. Sail through the crystal-clear South Pacific waters and discover the captivating islands of Raiatea, Bora Bora, and Taha'a. Each island has its unique charm, from crystal-clear lagoons to awe-inspiring landscapes, and there are plenty of adventures, such as diving for pearls and swimming with sharks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Come experience the breathtaking beauty of French Polynesia, a destination that will take your breath away.
Why Choose Our Tahiti
Sailing School?
Sailing School Meets Bucket List Destination
ㆍ Trade classroom lectures for hands-on lessons in crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, and untouched beaches.
The Ultimate South Pacific Paradise
ㆍ Tahiti's steady winds, calm waters, and dreamy landscapes make it the perfect place to master sailing.
From Beginner to Confident Skipper
ㆍ Build your sailing skills step by step—covering everything from tacking & jibing to advanced anchoring—under the guidance of expert instructors.
Certifications That Take You Places
ㆍ Progress through ASA certifications at your own pace: typically two levels per week, with ASA 114 available on catamaran courses. For qualified students, an ASA 101 test-out is possible before moving into ASA 103, 104, and 114. Successful completion can also make you eligible for the IPC, enabling you to charter yachts in Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Tight-Knit Crews, Lifelong Friends
ㆍ Small groups mean personalized training, epic adventures, and a sailing family you'll keep for life.
Not Just a Course - A Life Experience
ㆍ Spend seven days living aboard a yacht, island-hopping through one of the world's most stunning sailing destinations.
Island-Hop Your Way to ASA Certifications
Progress through ASA certifications step by step (two levels per week) while sailing among the iconic islands of Bora Bora, Raiatea, and beyond. Choose a catamaran course to add ASA 114, and once you’ve achieved ASA 104 you’ll also be eligible to apply for the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC), opening the door to yacht charters across Europe and beyond.
Join a Global Community of Passionate Sailors
When you sail with us, you're diving into an exclusive community of adventurers
from around the world. Forge lifelong friendships as you navigate
the challenges and triumphs of sailing together.
Tripadvisor
Reviews
Ben C
@F336QQbencFeb 2022 • None
My wife and I just spent a week in Tahiti doing the Sailing Virgins ASA Catamaran Course with instructors James and Kirill. Fantastic experience, and exactly what we were looking for. I have taken ASA coursework from a couple of different schools, but the Sailing Virgins experience stands out for a number of reasons. First, enthusiasm for the sport and adventure of sailing was high. The instructors were expert sailors in their own rights, but they also took the time to enjoy the moment, the scenery, and the local culture. We saw firsthand what was possible in sailing. James and Kirill draw on years of experience with these adventures, and I gained as a skipper because of it. Second, the adventure element of a Sailing Virgins course can not be understated. This is not a package tour, with experiences carefully prepared. It was more like we went in search of adventure, and it fell into our laps. Let me give some examples - We carefully worked our way into coral reef passages and had a swim with sharks and rays. We docked alongside a local guy's overwater bungalow to stop for coconuts. We brought the 52 foot cat in to drop off our crowd at a fancy French restaurant one night for dinner in Bora Bora. We got up early to make passages between islands. We freed an anchor that was caught on an old mooring ball in 10 meters of dark water. We caught mooring balls under sail. We biked around the island of Maupiti, and ate a full 3 course fish meal in a local woman's home. We flew drones, snorkeled around coral reefs, and free dove under the boat. Third, instruction was excellent and in the moment. James and Kirill modeled good seamanship, problem solving, and practice. They pushed us to do route planning, to navigate without the electronics, and to perfect our knots. Everyone on board took turns at the helm, at the lines, and at down in the engine rooms. I felt confident behind the wheel and learned the unique skills associated with running the sails and two engines of a large catamaran. We looked at this trip as a vacation, but also an opportunity to see a different part of the world and consider our options for future cruising. It was all those things. We slept well, we ate well, we saw AMAZING scenery and met some awesome people. I'll be honest - I am a careful sailor with a few charters under my belt. James and Kirill gave me the confidence to go and do this again on my own.
Brian
@Brian-MC224Feb 2020 • None
Last year my wife and I ventured to the BVI's for a sailing school with no idea what we were getting ourselves into. We selected Sailing Virgins due to their website/social media and overall vibe we got from how they marketed their company and their brand. We were thoroughly impressed with our instruction from Jack while taking our ASA 101/103 course. Once we returned home we decided to book another school and return for our 104/114 on board a catamaran. We just returned home from our week aboard the catamaran with the Sailing Virgins and man what a trip! This go around Nick was our instructor for the catamaran course and we were tailed by some Sailing Virgins alumni aboard their monohull Libertas. Again, we were blown away by the knowledge and passion these guys show towards sailing. Everywhere we went people recognized the Sailing Virgins brand and treated us probably better than any other comparable sailing school. James and the rest of his crew truly have done a wonderful job building a brand within their instruction. If you are serious about wanting to learn how to sail, than I definitely recommend giving Sailing Virgins a good look. They have earned my repeat business, and I am already looking at what my next adventure with them will be! Tahiti? Island adventure maybe? Look into all of it. Not your typical Sailing School!
Ashley E
@Ashleyevert_22Feb 2020 • Couples
Tyson and I just got back from our first solo charter down in the Sea of Cortez and it was EPIC! Went so well, our friends all survived and had a blast, we got some awesome sailing time in—-I can’t thank you enough for starting Sailing Virgins. I don’t know if we would have ever actually had the balls to charter a boat without a little bit of instruction and we still daydream about Tahiti constantly... we did the catamaran course there and it was one of our favorite weeks of our lives. We seriously would recommend these guys to ANYONE who wants to learn to sail, it’s a perfect mix of fun and instruction and obviously it works!
Gain Leadership Skills That
Translate Beyond the Deck
Sailing isn't just about tacking and jibing - it's about communication,problem-solving, and adaptability. These are skills that will serve you well in every aspect of life, from the boardroom to the open water.
What to Pack for Your Tahiti Sailing Adventure
Here are some essentials to bring along
Sun protection
(reef-safe sunscreen,
polarized sunglasses,
wide-brimmed hat)
Swimwear and
quick-drying clothing
Non-marking,
closed-toe shoes
with good grip
Light layers for cooler
evenings (lightweight
jacket, sweatshirt)
Soft-sided duffle bag
for easy storage
Waterproof camera or
phone case to capture
those incredible
moments!
Don't let this opportunity sail away!
Book your spot at our Tahiti sailing school today
Sample itinerary
Day by day plan
Day 1
📍Uturoa Marina
Meet us at 3 PM at the Uturoa marina on Raiatea island. Today you will meet your fellow sailors and the instructor and get used to new surroundings.
Day 2
📍Apu Bay, Taha’a
We begin what will be the typical start to the day: morning exercises, meditation, followed by breakfast. After breakfast, we will work through sailing theory. Then, conditions permitting, we will sail to Apu Bay, in the south end of Taha’a, and have dinner at the Taravana Yacht Club.
Day 3
📍Pt. Raititi, Bora Bora
After morning exercises, meditation and breakfast, we settle into sailing theory, then have our first sail for the day. Today we sail 4 hours west northwest to Pt. Raititi, Bora Bora, which is known for its spectacular snorkelling and freediving. The afternoon is spent enjoying the surroundings and relaxing in paradise.
Day 4
📍Bora Bora Yacht Club
After our morning routine and sailing theory session, we sail around the gorgeous island of Bora Bora, ending up at the Bora Bora Yacht Club for dinner.
Day 5
📍Ha’amene Bay, Taha’a
With everyone in the groove of morning exercises, we look for an opportunity for a pre-breakfast beach explore. Following breakfast we work through sailing theory, then sail around to the lovely Ha’amene Bay, which winds into the center of Taha’a Island. We may elect to have dinner on the boat tonight.
Day 6
📍Fa’aroa Bay, Raiatea
After our morning exercises, breakfast, and sailing theory we will sail south, back to the island of Raiatea. Our destination will be the steep-sided bay called Fa’aroa Bay. In the afternoon, we will explore the Aopomau River by dinghy.
Day 7
📍Opoa Bay, Raiatea
After our morning exercises and breakfast, we do a final theory summary for the week, answering any questions that may be on people’s minds. Then we sail south to the historically significant Opoa Bay, said to be the staging port for Polynesian explorers sailing towards New Zealand.
Day 8
📍Uturoa, Raiatea
Early on the last morning (Saturday) you will sail back to Uturoa, Raiatea Island. Your course finishes before midday on Saturday. You will receive your final debrief. You are now a Sailing Virgins Alumni!
FAQs About Our
Tahiti Sailing School
ㆍHow long are the courses?
Seven incredible days of nonstop learning, exploration, and adventure! We kick things off on Saturday at 3 PM and wrap up the following Saturday morning. It's a week you'll never forget!
ㆍWhat if my flight leaves earlier than midday on Saturday?
No worries! You're free to leave to go to the airport as early as you need to catch your flight on the final Saturday. We want to make sure your departure is as smooth as your sailing skills!
ㆍWhere do I go to start the course?
Our adventure begins at Uturoa Marina on Raiatea Island. Check out our detailed guide for all the info you need to find your way to the starting line.
ㆍI ve never sailed before. Is this course suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Our expert instructors are passionate about guiding sailors of all levels, from complete novices to experienced sea dogs looking to sharpen their skills. No matter your background, you'll find a supportive, encouraging environment to learn and grow.