Our staff
We are very proud of our staff. Our instructors have an average of 10 years sailing experience and all are First Aid & CPR trained. All instructors on boats greater than 30 feet are U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains. We employ about 18 people during the summer months and three year round. Instructors / coaches have received certifications by either the American Sailing Association or US Sailing.
As you might imagine, working at the sailing school is fun. We love teaching people how to sail and take pride in our fleet of boats. Having a diverse fleet and qualified instructors provides our customers with the opportunity to build the skills and confidence required to handle any boat.
How it all started
The school was founded in 2004 by Chris Nihill who started teaching sailing in 2001 with the Oyster Bay Sailing School. Chris started the school with three older boats and the dream to pass on his passion for sailing.
Today
Port Sailing owns and operates a fleet of over 30 boats. The Sonar fleet is used as the primary used for teaching adults to sail. The Junior program sails Optimist, Open Bic, Laser, Zuma and Pixel boats. Laser and Zuma boats are available for adults to sail. Our Dufour Gibsea 43. is in St Croix and St Thomas to support the winter Caribbean operations.
About Us
Capt. Chris Nihill, owner of Port Sailing Ctr. Inc., with daughter Kristen, former Commanding Officer of USCG Cutter Kittiwake. Both Kristen and Marissa Nihill have worked as instructors at the school
Our Credentials
Port Sailing is a US Government contractor providing coaches and instructors for The US Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.
We are also contracted to provide sailing instruction for Echo Bay Yacht Club, Harlem Yacht Club's junior sailing programs and the adult program at Horseshoe Harbor Yacht Club.
Port Sailing School is a proud a member of the American Sailing Association .
