Avoid getting a lifejacket with straps across the front. The straps catch on the side of the boat or dock if you are trying to get out of the water.
The pictures below show lifejackets that are smoother across the front, so they do not catch when being pulled from the water. Zhik and Stohlquist are good names. I am less familiar with the West Marine brand life vest, but I am sure it is a good vest. You will also note that the straps over the shoulders give your arms a lot of free movement to handle sails and not catch on the rigging.
Lifejacket / Personal Flotation Device Requirements
All participants in SailATL sailing programs must have and wear a US Coast Guard approved lifejacket (also known as a Personal Flotation Device - PFD). Jackets must be worn near the water, on the docks and when in the boats. An acceptable lifejacket will have a label with US Coast Guard Approved Type III PFD (note that the classification system is changing to Performance Level 70 for inland lake boatting). If you currently own an approved lifejacket that fits, bring that to class. If you plan to purchase a lifejacket, below are some examples of lifejackets that work well for sailing. These lifejackets also work well with other water sports that require free arm movement, such as kayaking.
Motorboat Operator Certification Course (July 2026)
The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) is dedicated to fostering a culture of safe boating among recreational and club boaters. SailATL is coordinating the NSBC Boat Control On-Water Training Course to enhance motorboat skills and safety awareness for AYC Race Committee participants and recreational boaters on Lake Allatoona. This training is especially valuable for safety boat operators overseeing sailboat racing on the lake.
The course includes classroom and hands-on skills training using the Atlanta Yacht Club (AYC) race committee safety boats. It is highly recommended for anyone serving on an AYC Race Committee.
The NSBC Boat Control On-Water Training Course is scheduled for July 11, 2025, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Participants must be at least 16 years old by the end of 2026.The registration fee is $150 for AYC members and $160 for nonmembers. Each participant who successfully completes the training course will receive a certificate of completion from the National Safe Boating Council and maybe eligible for an (agent dependent) insurance discount. Click the registration button to sign up.
US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Level 1 Certification Course (April 2026)
US Sailing serves as the national governing body for the sport, overseeing everything from sailboat racing regulations in the United States to course curricula and instructor certifications. To become a certified sailing instructor, individuals must complete the US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Level 1 Certification Course. Many college students who earn this certification go on to secure summer coaching positions at sailing clubs nationwide. The leadership experience and public-facing role of a summer coach provide valuable skills that benefit them throughout their careers.
If you're interested in the Level 1 Instructor Course, click the "Interested" button to learn more.
In addition to our weekend and weekday sailing courses, SailATL offers or facilitates a variety of training programs, certification courses, and sailing seminars. The selection of available courses and seminars evolves as new opportunities arise. Additionally, SailATL occasionally organizes mini-clinics led by accomplished sailing coaches. These focused sessions, typically held over a weekend, concentrate on specific aspects of sailing, providing valuable hands-on instruction.
Sailing Clinics and Seminars