Less Maintenance. More Time on the Water.
Sailboat care, brightwork, and private sailing lessons — personal service from a sailor who takes your boat as seriously as you do.
What I Do
Four distinct services, one guiding principle: your boat deserves careful, personal attention from someone who genuinely cares about the result.
Brightwork Done Right
Extraordinary preparation, quality materials, and the patience the job demands. Teak and varnish work that transforms the boat you have into the boat you once dreamed of.
Learn About BrightworkYour Boat, Looked After
Recurring sailboat stewardship through The Watchkeeper, The Steward, and The Yacht Steward memberships. One sailor you know. One person you trust.
Explore MembershipLearn to Sail
Welcoming, patient private sailing instruction on Percy Priest Lake. Focused on confidence, understanding, and the genuine pleasure of sailing.
Learn About LessonsCaptain's Exam Tutoring
Available NationwidePrivate online OUPV exam preparation available nationwide. Build real understanding of chart plotting, Rules of the Road, navigation, and deck safety.
Learn About TutoringThe Boat You Imagined. The Sailing Life You Deserve.
Making sailing fun, stress-free, and accessible to everyone.
Most boat owners don't need a boatyard. They need someone they can trust — someone who shows up, does careful work, and communicates honestly about what their boat needs.
I work with a small number of boats at a time, which means your project gets real attention. No rushed jobs. No surprises.
Trained. Experienced. Personally Invested.
Jeff vom Saal has completed ASA 101, 103, 104, and 110 coursework and successfully completed the ASA 201 instructor evaluation. He is actively pursuing his OUPV (Captain's) license.
Read Jeff's Full Story
Brightwork & Varnish
Good brightwork takes patience and a careful eye. I treat every varnish project as a point of pride — stripping, sanding, and building up coats the right way to protect and restore the beauty of your boat's wood.
Learn About Brightwork
Private Sailing Lessons
Learning to sail is easier — and more enjoyable — with patient, one-on-one instruction tailored to where you are right now. Whether you're stepping aboard for the first time or working to build real confidence on the water, I'll meet you there.
Lessons are available on Percy Priest Lake for beginners, developing sailors, and anyone who wants to feel more comfortable handling a boat.
When You Call Nashville Boat Works, You're Calling Me.
Nashville Boat Works is owned and operated by Jeff vom Saal — a lifelong sailor who personally communicates with every customer and performs the work he accepts. There's no crew, no subcontractors, no one else picking up the phone.
You get direct access to the person doing the work. Honest assessments. Clear communication. Careful workmanship. And genuine respect for your boat and your time.
“This is my work, my reputation, and something I care deeply about.”
Flexible scheduling. Early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Reach out anytime.
Ready to Talk About Your Boat?
Tell me what you're working with and what you need. I'll get back to you personally.