membership

Our on-the-water sailing instruction is only available to members. Once you register for a class, your membership must be paid and activated for the season.

All members, regardless of sailing experience, can join a MCO for a recreational sail aboard one of the boats in our fleet. 

Your experienced Skipper and First Mate will invite you to lend a hand as you take in the sights and sounds unique to sailing in Chicago. It’s a great way to meet other members and participation is encouraged! If there is space, members are also allowed to bring a guest.

Member cost: free

Tiller Time gives current Sail Chicago students the opportunity to practice skills and maneuvers learned in class, and gain confidence at the helm under the supervision of a Sail Chicago Skipper. While Tiller Time are primarily for enrolled students, other members may join if the boat has space 24-hours prior to the sail.

Student cost: free

When boats in our fleet are not being used for program activities, qualified Sail Chicago member skippers may use them for private sails. Skippers may invite other Sail Chicago members or non-member guests to crew aboard.

Rental prices range from $30 to $120 for a 4.5-hour period, determined by day of the week, time slot, and boat size.

For Monroe Harbor boats, fee includes one parking pass transportation for the skipper and crew from the Monroe Harbor tender.

Sail Chicago has been an all-volunteer organization since its founding, operating like a co-op where members share in the roles and responsibilities of the organization. Members fulfill this "owner's responsibility" through an annual service requirement.

First-time members are exempt from the requirement during their first season. Returning members must complete 25 service hours to maintain good standing, with positions filled throughout or prior to the sailing season depending on the role. Members who prefer to opt out may do so for a fee of $400 per season.

Social events are a great way to meet other sailors, learn more about the organization, and network with potential sailing buddies. We host monthly events in season, and one or two out of season. Event locations vary.

Member cost: free

Members are welcome to hop aboard one of Sail Chicago's Colgates every Friday evening for our weekly social sailing mixer. Just register and show up — no sailing experience required. If you have never seen the lights of the Chicago skyline at night, this is your chance!

Member cost: free