Private Tour
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Lessons are private and designed so you can brings friends and family with no extra charge. Up to 6 people can be part of the lesson.
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Expienced USCG Lincesed Captain
Enjoy a half day on the water with sailing instuction from a expedience captain. This will include learning sailing terminology and hands on sailing in and around Obstruction Pass. A half day lesson is approximately 3 hours and can be scheduled for the mornig 9:00-12:00 or afternoon 1:00-4:00 pm. Lessons are private and designed so you can brings friends and family with no extra charge. Up to 6 people can be part of the lesson.
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
vincentsK5180QA,
Aug 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an unforgettable day learning to sail with Captain Nat at Orcas Island Sailing! Our vessel was a nimble 20-foot sloop with both mainsail and jib, and Nat made sure we were at the helm as much as possible. From the start, he was patient, charming, and full of great stories from his days as a commercial fisherman. He has that rare ability to explain things clearly, keep you laughing, and make you feel instantly comfortable taking the tiller. We set sail from beautiful Obstruction Pass, gliding across the water toward Blakely Island for a delightful coffee and cookies stop. Nat moved around the boat with the agility of someone who truly knows the sea, always finding the wind and giving us the best possible ride. He encouraged us to handle the sails, steer, and really feel what it’s like to sail. If you want a hands-on, confidence-building, and absolutely fun sailing experience, book with Captain Nat. You’ll come away with new skills, great memories, and maybe even a few seafaring tales of your own. Five stars without hesitation!
rhiannons974,
Jul 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Nat was an incredible teacher! We had the best time and learned a ton. Can’t wait to go again. We had extended family of six people and everyone was able to participate or just enjoy the ride depending on their preference.
Melinda M,
Jul 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
Do it! Nat is the absolute best! So knowledgeable and makes sure everyone is comfy. You will need to dress warmly any time you're out to Seattle but other than that, you don't really need anything.
G7168ABdebbier,
Aug 26, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
Nat was the most patient, kind knowledgeable, humorous sailing instructor on the planet! We tagged along on a lesson with friends. Our friends have had many sailing lessons with Nat, on a regular basis for the last six months. They told us how wonderful he was before we got there and he did not disappoint! Our friends seemed very comfortable and educated on how to sail the boat and credited Nat for his guidance. We had a successful three hour tour!:)



christopheroV7269IZ,
May 28, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a wonderful lesson with Nat. He was very knowledgeable, informative, and friendly. My family and I have different levels of interest in sailing, but he engaged with all of us, and everyone had a great time. We will definitely reach out to him again the next time we visit Orcas Island!
H3649PQandrean,
Jun 1, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a blast on our half-day sailing trip with Nat! It was a beautiful day and we learned a lot - we were complete beginners and Nat helped us understand the basics of sailing and try our hands at the different skills. It was an excellent way to get out on the water and try something new, as we as to see the area. We highly recommend this experience!
R6145RGrons,
Sep 30, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
Nat is a great instructor and fun guide. Patient and clear answers. Learned a lot in just a few hours.
barry and emily,
Aug 17, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our 3-hour sailing lesson was the highlight of our week on Orcas Island! In fact, we asked to schedule another one. Captain Nat is an excellent sailing instructor and creates a very enjoyable experience.
jasonbY8772EJ,
Aug 7, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
Nat was wonderful! Our family booked with him last minute (3 kiddos, 5, 6 and 8) and he was a pro. He was fun and patient and was genuinely excited to teach everyone and let everyone participate. I thought 3 hours was going to be too long but it went by quickly. Nat ate lunch with us and we really enjoyed his company, professionalism, and kindness. Couldn’t recommend him enough, definitely worth it!!!
Ben C,
Jul 28, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
Incredible experience! Captain Nat knows his ways around the boat and the surrounding waters like the back of his hand, and he is happy to share and teach so that you can have the sailing experience of a lifetime. A total professional who’s passion and enthusiasm led to a safe and unforgettable experience. To top it all off, we were lucky enough to see a sea lion swimming alongside and two iconic bald eagles resting on a rock. If you visit orcas island and you don’t hit up this company, I promise you you’re missing out.
Operated by Orcas Island Sailing