Sailing Instruction & Education

"I see, I forget. I hear, I remember. I do, I understand." - Chinese Proverb

Our educational programs are designed to present a defined curriculum based on the goals of the participants.

We base our educational offerings on the philosophy and theory of environmental and experiential education. Our staff loves to teach. The aim of our instruction is to teach outdoor skills, help improve judgment and foster environmental awareness. We emphasize the development of sailing and outdoor skills paired with the ethics of a responsible adventurer.

Curriculum and content can be adapted to the goals of the client, but they will include:

  • Sail theory, boat handling and seamanship
  • Navigation, weather and expedition planning
  • Campcraft and expedition travel skills
  • Safety management
  • Outdoor leadership and group dynamics
  • Environmental ethics and Leave No Trace (including LNT Trainer Certification)

Our instructional approach is to introduce, then emphasize hands-on practice.

Thorfinn Expeditions staff are experienced in sailing, outdoor skills and adventure education. We have honed our skills with some of the best organizations in the industry, allowing us to present material well and work with a wide range of groups and learning styles. Individuals and groups who might be interested in our educational programs include:

         
  • Individuals or groups who want to learn sailing and expedition skills
  • Naturalist and environmental groups
  • Outdoor clubs and college recreation programs
  • Camps
  • School groups
  • Programs geared for the disabled
  • Yacht clubs
  • Corporate trainers

In addition to our own educational program offerings, Thorfinn Expeditions can form a relationship with any existing organization or business. We provide the boat, all expedition gear, staff and safety and program management. You provide the motivated participants. Our course area is flexible and the length of programs varies from a half-day to multi-day. Inquire about rates and schedule.

Pricing

Please contact us for pricing.

Contact us to book today!

Presto 30 Maine lighthouse Coastal exploration
"Thor graciously provided an exhilarating and memorable experience for our students. They couldn't wait to tell me their stories when they returned to school. They sounded so alive. When they spoke their eyes filled with excitement and pride." - Joseph Hufnagel

Group Discounts

Thorfinn Expeditions offers special discounted group programming designed for Maine schools, camps and non-profit organizations. Our goal is to be an outdoor education resource for the state of Maine. We feel strongly about providing affordable sailing as a means of increasing accessibility of both sailing and the Maine outdoors. Please inquire.

Sailing Programs

  1. We offer both pre-designed and custom day trips for individuals and groups.
    From three hours to a full day, you will enjoy an experience that takes you out of your everyday life. Sail to an island, picnic and explore. Here, even a few hours with the sun, the wind, the water and the sky can refresh and recharge like nothing else.

    Learn more about day trips
  2. Experience true adventure by sail.
    Our sailing expeditions are designed to engage participants. Explore simply, work together as a team, and enjoy the rewards of sailing in a high performance boat along the most beautiful coastal environments anywhere. Be rejuvenated and inspired by the unique coast of Maine -- and by discovering your own new limits.

    Learn more about expeditions
  3. Gain the skills to be a solid sailor and adventurer from hands-on learning.
    We provide sailing, expedition and environmental training which allows individuals and groups to become fully immersed in the art of coastal exploration. Our professional team of sailing educators and our unique vessel provides the perfect platform for first class instruction.

    Learn more about sailing education and instruction
  4. Our program is built around a unique expedition sail vessel, a Presto 30 named Thorfinn. The Presto 30 is a high-performance boat designed and built for adventure and safety. From its Kevlar bottom to its carbon fiber masts, a Presto 30 is outfitted with safety equipment and an unsinkable design. The vessel's hull is 30 feet long and can access any body of water with a depth of more than a foot.

    Learn more about our boat