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!

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.  

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.

For boats moored at Monroe Harbor, fees include one parking pass to the Monroe Street Garage and complimentary transportation for the skipper and crew to and from the boat via the Monroe Harbor tender.

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

Sail Chicago has been an all-volunteer organization since its founding. It operates like a co-op, where members are owners who share in the roles and responsibilities of the organization. At Sail Chicago, members fulfill their "owner's responsibility" through an annual service requirement.

First-time members are exempt from the member service requirement during their first season. Returning members must complete 25 service hours to maintain their membership in good standing. Positions are filled during the sailing season or prior to its start, depending on the role. Returning members may opt out of the service requirement by paying a fee of $400 per season.

Contact volunteer@sailchicago.org for more information on available positions.

Social events are a great way to meet other sailors, learn more about the organization, and network with potential sailing buddies.

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!