CALIFORNIA SAILING COOPERATIVE
Experience the freedom of sailing with Southern California's premier non-profit sailing club. At CSC, members develop seamanship skills at their own pace, build confidence on the water, and join a vibrant community of passionate sailors who share a love for the ocean and adventure.
Marina del Rey Sunset Sails
Experience the beauty of Southern California waters at golden hour
Hands-On Learning
Develop your sailing skills with experienced instructors
Vibrant Community
Join fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for sailing
Expert Instructors
Learn from our dedicated team of experienced sailing professionals
CSC is located at Marina City Club, Marina del Rey.
Schedule a Guest Sail
WHY SAIL WITH US?
HISTORIC SAILING CLUB
California Sailing Cooperative has a rich history of being run by volunteers who love sailing, learning, and socializing on the water. Our community brings together individuals from across Southern California, creating a welcoming environment for sailors of all skill levels.
ASA CERTIFIED TRAINING
As an American Sailing Association certified facility, we offer comprehensive training from basic keelboating (101) through advanced coastal cruising (106). Our experienced Skipper-Instructors work with you to earn certifications at your own comfortable pace.
MEMBER-FOCUSED APPROACH
Unlike traditional sailing schools that rush through certification in 3-5 days, CSC provides ongoing opportunities to build skills and confidence through monthly memberships. Our cooperative model means more time on the water at lower costs than commercial schools.
MEMBERS
Our cooperative is proud to have dedicated members who contribute to our vibrant sailing community. These experienced sailors help maintain our vessels, mentor new members, join for parties, and ensure the cooperative continues to thrive.
HOW DOES CSC WORK?
JOIN THE COOPERATIVE
Become part of our sailing community through a simple application process. No prior experience needed – we welcome sailors of all skill levels from complete beginners to seasoned captains.
SAIL WITH INSTRUCTORS
Enjoy full-day sails (10:30am-4pm) with ASA-certified instructors and crews of 6-7 members. Rotate through different positions while receiving personalized guidance tailored to your learning goals.
EARN CERTIFICATIONS
Progress through ASA certifications at your own pace. Work with multiple instructors to gain diverse perspectives, building confidence and competence on the water while making new friends.
Each certification level achieved opens up new sailing opportunities, unlocking more extensive club resources and benefits. Members can also participate in weekly happy hours, bi-annual social gatherings, and hands-on maintenance workshops to further advance their sailing skills and network with fellow enthusiasts.
SAILING EXPERIENCE WITH CSC
Members collaborating to raise sails during training
Hands-on certification process with experienced instructors
Community events strengthen our sailing network
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I become a member of CSC?
Start by filling out our contact form to get in touch. We'll discuss guest sail opportunities, membership availability, and answer any questions you might have about joining our cooperative sailing community.
Does CSC allow for ASA Certification?
Absolutely! CSC encourages ASA Certifications with instructors ready to help with both textbook learning and on-water skills. Our flexible approach allows members to get certified in weeks or take years, depending on your personal preference.
What kind of experience is required to join?
We welcome members of all experience levels – from those who've never been on the water to well-seasoned sailors. Our diverse club includes members with varying backgrounds and sailing expertise, creating a rich learning environment.
AT THE HELM: MEMBER MUSINGS
Finding My Sea Legs
After three months with CSC, I've gone from complete novice to confidently taking the helm in moderate winds. The patient instruction and welcoming atmosphere made all the difference in my sailing journey.
Catalina Adventure
Our weekend trip to Catalina Island with fellow CSC members was the perfect way to put my ASA 103 skills to the test. Nothing compares to dropping anchor in a beautiful cove with friends you've made on the water.
Learning Through Teaching
Becoming a Skipper at CSC has deepened my own sailing knowledge in unexpected ways. Helping others master sailing skills reinforces my own understanding of this incredible sport.
MEET OUR KEY MEMBERS
Captain Chuck Cady
Founding member with over a million years of sailing experience. Chuck's patient teaching style had helped hundreds of members develop confidence on the water while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Captain Charlie Hentges
ASA Master Instructor with expertise in coastal navigation and advanced sailing techniques. Charlie's engaging teaching approach combines technical precision with practical knowledge gained from thousands of nautical miles.
Commodore Jane Linehan
Leading CSC's community initiatives, Jane's background in education and passion for sailing creates the perfect combination for fostering our cooperative learning environment.
Skipper Emeritus John Hardy
Discover Skipper Emeritus John Hardy's enduring sailing journey and unwavering commitment to educating others.
Ursula Kress
With extensive blue-water experience and a passion for the ocean, Ursula was a key figure in the formation of CSC.
CSC Sailing Moments
Explore our sailing adventures through these captured moments on the water.