Learn to Sail. Love Every Minute.
Personalized sailing instruction for beginners, couples, and boat owners in Nashville, Tennessee. Whether you're stepping aboard for the first time or looking to become more confident on your own sailboat, we'll help you develop the skills to enjoy sailing safely and independently.
Meet Your Instructor
Jeff vom Saal
Jeff vom Saal is a lifelong sailor who genuinely loves sharing the sport with others. He has more than 570 documented days of sea service and has completed ASA 101, 103, 104, and 110. He has also successfully completed the ASA 201 Basic Keelboat Sailing Instructor evaluation and is pursuing his U.S. Coast Guard OUPV captain's credential.
Jeff's teaching philosophy emphasizes patience, curiosity, encouragement, confidence, and sound judgment. He believes people learn best when they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and developing their own understanding.
"I love sailing, but there's something especially rewarding about helping someone else discover it. My goal isn't just to show you what to do. It's to help you understand why things work, develop confidence, and discover how much fun sailing can be."
Training & Credentials
- ASA 101 — Basic Keelboat Sailing
- ASA 103 — Basic Coastal Cruising
- ASA 104 — Bareboat Cruising
- ASA 110 — Basic Coastal Navigation
- ASA 201 Instructor Evaluation Completed
- OUPV Captain's License — In Pursuit
- 570+ Documented Days of Sea Service
Nashville Boat Works is not an ASA-affiliated sailing school and does not issue ASA student certifications.
Lesson Packages
Packages listed below are proposed offerings subject to confirmation of scheduling, vessel availability, operating authorization, and insurance. Prices and details are subject to change.
Discover Sailing
A gentle introduction to sailing — safety, terminology, steering, and wind awareness. A great first step for anyone curious about the sport.
Private Sailing Lesson
Personalized instruction in sailing fundamentals, boat handling, sail trim, seamanship, and confidence-building — tailored entirely to you.
Sailing Together
A personalized sailing experience for couples, emphasizing teamwork, communication, and shared learning on the water.
Your Boat, Your Confidence
Boat familiarization, systems, rigging, docking, handling, and owner-specific instruction — all on your own boat, in your own slip.
The Five-Lesson Sailing Journey
A progressive learning experience covering foundational sailing skills, boat handling, sail trim, seamanship, and growing confidence — built around your schedule and goals.
Sailing Skills Refresher
Customized instruction for returning sailors or those seeking improvement in particular skills. You set the agenda.
Private Instruction on Your Boat or Mine
On Your Boat
Personalized instruction aboard your own sailboat, subject to vessel suitability, insurance, permissions, and applicable regulations. Learn your own equipment, handling characteristics, and sailing routines — in the environment where you'll actually be sailing.
On an Arranged Instructional Boat
For students who don't own a sailboat, instruction may be offered aboard a suitable vessel once commercial instructional arrangements and applicable licensing requirements have been confirmed. Availability will be communicated personally.
How Lessons Work
Tell Us What You Want to Learn
Share your experience level, goals, and any questions. There's no wrong answer — every lesson starts with where you are right now.
We'll Develop a Personalized Plan
Jeff will follow up to discuss your goals, recommend a lesson format, and work out the details — vessel, location, timing, and what you'll focus on.
Build Skills and Confidence on the Water
Lessons are tailored to your experience and goals. You'll leave with real skills, real understanding, and the confidence to keep going.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Sailing Journey Starts Here.
There's no perfect age to start sailing, and no reason to feel intimidated. Whether you're a complete beginner, a couple looking to learn together, or a boat owner ready to develop more confidence, Nashville Boat Works offers a personal approach to learning.