Learn to Sail in Austin, on Lake Travis
One-on-One Sailing Instruction
No “zero-to-hero” courses that rush you through just enough to pass a test.
My programs are different. They’re built to develop real sailing skills, real on-the-water judgment, and the confidence to take command at the helm.
I’m Emily Leach, and I offer personalized, one-on-one sailing programs on Lake Travis, just outside of Austin, Texas, designed around you. No groupts, no pressure, no cookie-cutter curriculum. We work at your pace, focusing on the skills and scenarios that matter most to your goals.
Discover Sailing (half day session)
Ready to dip your toes in to the world of sailing? This half day sailing experience on Lake Travis is an easy, no-pressure way to try sailing and learn the basics—right here in Austin.
Just bring your curiosity and soft-soled shoes. If you feel ready, you’ll have the chance to take the helm and get some hands-on sailing—always at your pace.
$299 (includes snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Hands-On Instructional Practice Sessions (full day sessions)
True sailing competence is built on the water, not in a book. These private, on-the-water sessions on Lake Travis in Austin put your hands on the lines and at the helm, building real muscle memory, sound judgment, and lasting confidence. Each session is shaped around your goals, so every hour on the water matters.
This option is ideal for sailors who want focused instruction without chasing a formal certification—and it’s equally valuable for those working toward NauticEd Rank certifications, offering targeted practice to support that path. Use these sessions to sharpen specific skills like docking or sail trim, or simply log more quality time at the helm.
Sessions can be scheduled individually or stacked over consecutive days for deeper immersion. Add a second person for $200/session
$475/Day (includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Private Sailing Coaching Series (4 Flex Days)
A flexible 4-day private sailing package designed for real progress—on your schedule.
Your journey begins with a complimentary Sail Discovery call to explore your goals, experience level, and what kind of support will serve you best. From there, you can spread four full days of one-on-one instruction over the course of a year, building confidence and capability with personalized coaching on Lake Travis.
$1,425/4-Days (includes lunch, snacks, water, custom UV shirt, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Docking Clinic (full day)
Take the stress out of docking with this hands-on, one-day clinic. You’ll get practical, on-the-water experience handling your boat in close quarters, practicing approaches, lines, fenders, spring lines, and safe maneuvering under expert guidance. Multiple days can be scheduled for additional practice, building precision and confidence at the helm. Perfect for sailors who want to feel fully in control when coming alongside a dock.
$475/Day (includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Anchoring Clinic (half day)
Master the art of anchoring in this focused, one-day clinic. Learn how to choose the right spot, set and retrieve your anchor, manage scope, handle bow-stern anchoring, and respond to changing conditions—all hands-on. Multiple days can be scheduled to practice different anchoring scenarios, giving you the confidence to anchor safely and securely anywhere.
$475/Day (includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
3-Day Overnight Sailing Immersion (women-only)
Experience a three-day, one-on-one, women-only sailing immersion on the beautiful waters of Lake Travis, just outside Austin. This program is fully personalized to your goals.
Over three days, you’ll learn hands-on sailing techniques, navigation, anchoring, and live-aboard skills, including an overnight under the stars. This intensive also provides the perfect opportunity to practice or complete your NauticEd Practical Assessment. With expert guidance, immersive instruction, and stunning surroundings, this program is designed to turn your sailing dreams into real experience.
$1,575/Day (includes meals while on the boat, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Day Builder — Monthly Sailing Membership
The Day Builder is a monthly sailing membership designed for steady, skill-forward growth. Get two coached days on the water each month—customized around your goals—and save 20% compared to single-day bookings. Commit to your first three months, then cancel anytime.
$750/month (includes lunch, snacks, water, custom UV shirt, comfortable auto-inflate PFD for each session and Instruction)
Qualified Crew Program (NauticEd Rank)
Build the skills of a competent, confident crew member.
This program is designed for real, self-paced learning—not a rushed “zero-to-hero” experience. On the water, you’ll develop practical skills through repetition and guided practice, building confidence that lasts. These sessions pair perfectly with the NauticEd Qualified Crew online course, which covers the knowledge and theory needed to be a capable crew member—from sailing terminology and onboard systems to roles and responsibilities aboard a vessel.
This program includes three discounted, 6-hour on-the-water practice sessions, which can be scheduled anytime over the next year. After purchase, you’ll receive access to an online calendar to book sessions at your convenience.
Please note: the NauticEd Qualified Crew online course is not included in the price and must be purchased separately if you’re on that certification path.
$1,250 (each session includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Skipper Certification Program (NauticEd Rank)
Ready to lead the crew?
This program blends self-paced online theory with flexible, private on-the-water instruction, so learning to sail fits your life—not the other way around. No rigid schedules. No rushed weekends. Just the right mix of study and hands-on practice to turn knowledge into real skill.
As you complete the required NauticEd online theory, you’ll have three private days of on-water instruction to use when it makes sense for you. Spread them out as you learn, or stack them together for a more immersive experience. The program adapts to your pace and learning style.
Once your coursework and instructional days are complete, the final step is a one-day, on-water assessment to earn your official NauticEd Skipper Certification.
Please note: The NauticEd Online Skipper theory course is required for certification and is purchased separately.
$2,150 (each session includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Bareboat Charter Master Certification + SLC Program (NauticEd Rank)
Dreaming of captaining your own yacht?
Whether it’s the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or beyond, earning your Bareboat Charter Master (plus your International Sailing License - SLC) certification takes real skill—and this program builds it step by step. Forget rigid “cram courses.” This flexible, self-paced system combines online theory with on-demand, private on-water instruction, letting you develop mastery on your schedule.
How it works: As you complete the required NauticEd online theory, you’ll have four private, on-water instruction days to use whenever it fits your learning pace. Spread them out or stack them together—the program adapts to you.
Final Assessment: Once your coursework and instruction are complete, schedule the two-day official on-water assessment to demonstrate your competence and earn the Bareboat Charter Master rank.
Please note: The NauticEd Bareboat Charter Master online theory course is required for certification and is purchased separately.
$3,075 (each session includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
NauticEd Rank Assessment
Ready to earn your Qualified Crew, Skipper, Bareboat Charter Master, or Sailing Leadership Certificate (SLC) rank? These private, on-water assessments provide the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your skills and receive expert guidance in a focused, one-on-one environment.
All online coursework and minimum required days on the water must be completed prior to the assessment; these are not included in the price. During the assessment, you’ll put your knowledge into practice, showing competency in boat handling, navigation, anchoring, docking, and safety, depending on the rank you’re pursuing. Assessments are fully personalized and scheduled at your convenience, giving you the confidence and support to succeed.
$800 (includes lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a comfortable auto-inflate PFD)
Not sure where to start?
I’m happy to chat about your sailing goals and questions—even if we discover I’m not the right fit. The goal is simply to help you find the program or instructor that will make your sailing dreams a reality.




