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.
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.
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
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
How It Works
Tell Us Your Goal
Sail, power, or both. A quick conversation with Captain Paul sets the right starting point for where you are today.
Learn the Right Way
ASA sailing courses through First Reef, or American Boating powerboat certification — taught on the water, not just on paper.
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.
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.