Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for the club?

Visit the DoSportsEasy portal, scroll down to Sailing and click “Registration”, then fill out the required information. If you are 18+ and have a license, please register as a driver so the club can offer enough programming for everyone. Registration is required by Oct. 15th for the fall and Feb. 15th for the spring. This is a hard deadline and cannot be adjusted. You will not be able to participate in club activities if you are not registered after this date.

Where do you sail?

We sail out of the Washington Sailing Marina. We either sail in the Lagoon adjacent to the Marina or on the Potomac River by Reagan National Airport. The location depends on the weather.

The official address is: 1 Marina Dr, Alexandria, VA 22314

What time are practices?

This semester (fall 2023), our social practices are 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays! Our racing practices are Thursdays from 2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Depending on sailor and officer availability, we may add additional practices to accommodate those who can’t attend on Wednesday and Thursday. All practices are subject to change based on the weather and available daylight.

You must RSVP to attend a practice. We only have so many boats, so many sailors, and so little time. Our weekly emails will contain links to RSVP. We will be prioritizing paid members followed by registered members for practice sign ups.

What should I bring to practice?

Please bring shoes that can get wet, some type of work or sailing gloves, a PFD/lifejacket, sunscreen a dry change of clothes, and water. Please do not wear jeans (and avoid cotton if you can), and instead opt for athletic/quick-dry, synthetic, fleece, or wool options.

If you do not have gear such as lifejackets or gloves, we have many extras you can borrow.

How much are dues?

Dues for Social Sailors are $150 per semester. Dues for Racing Sailors are $225 per semester. Dues must be given to Financial Chair Ella Napolitano in either cash or check. If you are paying by check please make it out to “American University”. Dues are due by Mar. 15th this spring. 

Our dues go towards transportation, marina fees, boat maintenance, and development of the club. For racers, the additional dues goes towards regatta fees, hotels, and regatta transportation. If you are unable to pay or need some form of assistance, we are happy to work with you.

What are the requirements for members?

In order to be a fully participating member you must pass a swim test. In addition to the swim test, you need to pay your dues, register on DoSportsEasy, and sign the Club Constitution. If you are missing any of these requirements you will be prohibited from participating in club activities.

How do I get club emails?

You can join the mailing list using this interest form

Where can I find the Constitution? How do I let you know I read it?

Once you are registered and fully committed to joining the team, please read through the Club’s Constitution for official policies and rules. The Constitution is attached and linked HERE. Please confirm you have read through the Constitution by filling out the form HERE.

Am I guaranteed a spot at a regatta if I pay racing dues?

No. While we try to make it fair for all racers, we typically take members who are regularly involved with the team – those who enhance the culture and community of the team. As a club team, we reserve the right to determine rosters, membership, and invitations.

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