How would you like try a new adventure by getting out on the lake for an afternoon sail with an experienced skipper and learn all about our fun-filled sailing community, right here in Nashville?
If you have an interest in learning to sail, LATH is your first step toward exploring this new adventure, at no cost.
You’re cordially invited to come join us for our Learning at the Helm (LATH) program. This introductory sailing program is open to anyone (18 and older) with an interest in sailing. There is no charge, and, you will actually get out on the lake and go sailing.
WHAT IS “LEARNING AT THE HELM” ALL ABOUT?
The goal of LATH is to share our passion for sailing with the Nashville community and to promote member involvement within the Percy Priest Yacht Club (PPYC).
Every Tuesday evening of the sailing season, experienced PPYC skippers will provide LATH participants with a basic introduction to sailing and then take you out on the lake for an on-the-water sailing experience. This is a very fun weekly club program for everyone. Besides giving newcomers a great way to try out a new hobby, we all have a great time enjoying a sunset cruise on the lake. Our fun-filled LATH events give everyone a chance to experience the thrill of sailing. LATH is also a great way to meet a welcoming bunch of new friends, who are eager to share the joys of sailing.
If you enjoy the LATH experience, you can take the next step and explore our free PPYC University member sailing instruction courses, our club boat program, and even our Wednesday Club Race nights.
How to Attend a “Learning At The Helm” Session
Online Registration is required for each weekly LATH session. Spaces on boats are limited and spots can't be guaranteed. Once registration closes each week, the LATH directors will start planning ahead pairing LATH participants with an experienced PPYC skipper so we can all get out on the water as soon as possible.
Dates and Time: Tuesdays at 5:00 PM
Plan ahead to arrive on time. Traffic almost always causes travel delays getting to Hamilton Creek Sailboat Marina.
Location: Meet on the deck at Hamilton Creek Marina
As you enter the Hamilton Creek Recreation area off of Bell Road, continue straight until you see the gate entrance and “sailing marina” sign. When you arrive, head to the marina clubhouse, check-in at the registration desk out on deck, get a name tag, turn in your LATH Waiver and Release agreement, and our LATH Directors will introduce you to your skipper.
Requirements: Must be 18 or older. Online Pre-registration is required.
A signed LATH Waiver and Release Agreement [click button below] will cover you for the season. Learning at the Helm (LATH) Waiver & Release
While each sailboat is equipped with enough life jackets, LATH participants are welcome to bring their own USCG approved life jacket, especially if you already have a properly-sized life jacket.
How To Register for a “Learning At The Helm” Evening
Newcomers are welcome at any LATH event. Online Pre-Registration is required. From the PPYC home page, scroll the “What is Happening in the Next 60 Days” option and locate your preferred Tuesday date. Click the “Register Here” link for that date. And complete the online registration. If the event date is full, you can join the waiting list and our LATH Directors will make our best attempt to get you on a boat.
You can also Click the link below. The Event Calendar will have a registration link for each LATH date over the season.
What are you waiting for? Take that first step to your next new & exciting adventure. Come join us at our next Tuesday Evening LATH event.
Requirements: Must be 18 or older. Pre-registration is required. Anyone participating in the LATH program for the first time must sign a Waiver and Release Agreement [click button below] that will cover you for the season. Newcomers are welcome at any LATH evening.
Learning at the Helm (LATH) Waiver & Release
How to Prepare for a Learning at the Helm Class
It is important that LATH participants come prepared for sailing by bringing the following:
- Comfortable and loose-fitting clothing for ease in moving around the boat, and as appropriate for the expected temperature
- Rain jacket if rain is expected
- Soft-soled shoes with non-marking soles (no flip flops, dress shoes, hiking boots, cowboy boots, etc.)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Bottle of water
- Sunscreen (lotion, not spray)
- A PFD (personal flotation device, i.e., a life jacket) is also recommended. All boats will have the number of PFDs required, but if you have your own, it would be good if you brought that with you.
Weather cancellation:
We do not sail during thunderstorms, heavy winds or heavy rains. If weather conditions do not permit safe sailing, we will hold a classroom-style lesson on the clubhouse deck.
Continue to Expand Your Sailing Skills by Becoming a Member
After two evenings of sailing in our LATH program, if you like the sport of sailing and would like to continue participation in the LATH program, applying to become a Provisional PPYC Member is expected.