Boston Yacht Group · Learn to Boat

Start at the
Helm

You do not need experience to join. Boston Yacht Group is the only Boston boat club backed by a full sailing school and real powerboat education. Learn to sail, get powerboat-certified, and cruise Boston Harbor with a USCG-licensed captain in your corner from day one.

See the Two Paths Explore Membership
Sail, Power, or Both

No Experience Required

Most boat clubs hand you the keys and hope for the best. We do it differently. Boston Yacht Group is led by Captain Paul Sullivan — a USCG-licensed captain and ASA Master Instructor — and backed by a complete education ecosystem on both sail and power. Whether you have never touched a wheel or you want to sharpen skills you already have, there is a path in.

Sailing lessons on Boston Harbor with First Reef Sailing School
Learn to Sail

First Reef Sailing School

Our sister sailing school teaches ASA-certified courses right here on Boston Harbor — from your very first day on the water through bareboat cruising and beyond. Co-founded by Captain Paul and led by seasoned instructors, First Reef is where Boston learns to sail.

  • ASA 101 through advanced cruising certifications
  • On-the-water instruction on Boston Harbor
  • Private lessons, charters, and warm-water course weeks
Visit First Reef Sailing School
Powerboat course at the helm of a Nimbus T8
Learn to Power

American Boating Courses

New to power? We offer American Boating powerboat courses — a nationally recognized education program — to get you comfortable, confident, and certified. Then a USCG-licensed captain checks you out on the boat before you ever head out on your own.

  • Beginner-friendly powerboat certification
  • Virtual coursework plus on-water training
  • A captain check-out on your boat before you solo
Powerboat Lessons at First Reef
From First Lesson to First Cruise

How It Works

01

Tell Us Your Goal

Sail, power, or both. A quick conversation with Captain Paul sets the right starting point for where you are today.

02

Learn the Right Way

ASA sailing courses through First Reef, or American Boating powerboat certification — taught on the water, not just on paper.

03

Get Checked Out

A USCG-licensed captain rides along and signs off on the boat before you take it out on your own. Confidence, not guesswork.

04

Cruise Boston Harbor

Now the harbor is yours. The boat is fueled, clean, and ready — all you do is show up and go.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you are brand new to the water or coming back after years away, we will build the right path for you — then get you cruising Boston Harbor. Book a private conversation with Captain Paul.

Book a Call With Captain Paul See Membership Tiers
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