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SAIL NOLA - SAILING LESSONS AND CRUISES IN NEW ORLEANS
6701 Stars and Stripes Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126, United States
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SAIL NOLA - SAILING LESSONS AND CRUISES IN NEW ORLEANS

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Ca
Review №1

I booked a sailing lesson for my boyfriend, who has always been interested in learning to sail. His three kids and I were all interested in tagging along for the lesson, and Frank was as accommodating as can be. During the lesson, he taught my boyfriend all the basics, but also gave me (and the kids!) opportunities to learn and sail. Frank was extremely professional, making sure our journey was smooth sailing, but also great company to share a boat with. We enjoyed every minute. Even our teenagers, who were reluctant at first, fell in love with sailing and the water and want to go again. Thank you Frank, for a lovely day on the water and some great lessons to boot.

So
Review №2

Absolutely a wonderful experience! Extremely relaxing and informative. Capt. Jones was adaptive; If we were making conversation, he was right in there, if we were laying back, he quietly sailed the boat. Awesome boat, and my first experience on a sail boat. My wife and I both loved it. I would highly recommend using Capt Jones to anyone!

Cu
Review №3

Excellent half a day spent onboard. It was the highlight of my trip to New Orleans. Capt. Frank was awesome personally and professionally. I would highly recommend Sailing NOLA to anyone interested in sailing, unsure of sailing, adventurous, or just wants to do something that will stand out.

Da
Review №4

My dad and I surprised my mom for her birthday with a private sunset cruise. None of us had ever been on a sailboat and found Sail NOLA online and picked this one based on its reviews. WELL - needless to say, the reviews cant even explain how much fun we had celebrating my mom and experiencing our first cruise together! Capt Frank was so easy to work with and very accommodating. He made sure the boat was also in the perfect spot for the sunset so we could enjoy it over birthday cake. We also enjoyed our private tour of the boat and seeing what his future plans for the cabin would be!!!! We will be back!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND... and have already recommended to close friends!!!

Br
Review №5

My friend and I booked a half-day sailing lesson with Frank. He was very prompt about wind/weather updates so we could have a good sailing experience. The boat was well maintained and every item functioned well for the many sailing points we practiced. Frank is very experienced and a pleasure to sail with. We recently attended an ASA sailing school and had a few items we wanted to see/practice; Frank was well-versed in every item we asked about. I learned several other valuable points of sailing from this experience. As an aside, the marina was very nice and has a large, gated-parking lot. This was a fun trip.

Ja
Review №6

Frank was the perfect Captain and host. We sailed in Lake Pontchartrain with him aboard the Irie, his pristine, sleek 46 foot sailboat. Although it was a windy night, he handled the boat with great precision which reflected his years of experience on the water. We felt safe and knew that we were in good hands. The sunset sail was relaxing, comfortable and exhilarating all at the same time.The menu selection of simple foods and beverages was excellent. I would definitely recommend Captain Frank for his knowledge, his experience and his beautiful sailing vessel. We are already planning our next outing!

Gr
Review №7

Captain Frank took my best friend and I out with our husbands for our mutual birthday celebration. He was a wonderful guide and showed us a great time. Frank is very knowledgeable and accommodating. His sail boat is equally stellar. Very fancy! Highly recommend this adventure. Get the wine and cheese tray too.

Sh
Review №8

Everything you need to know about sailing with Captain Frank is summed up in Sail Nola’s mission statement - “Personalized and Rewarding Instruction is the Goal”. Well...mission accomplished!I wanted to surprise my husband with private lessons for his birthday. Frank was responsive, professional, courteous, and willing to accommodate our schedules. He told us specifically what to bring, greeted us with a smile, oriented us to his boat (which is in tip-top shape), and got us sailing right away. In addition to being a knowledgeable and accomplished sailor, Frank is a patient and skilled instructor. Perhaps most importantly, he understands the need to relax and have fun while learning. It was an absolute pleasure spending 2 mornings sailing with Frank. We highly recommend it and can’t wait to do it again!

Da
Review №9

Captain Frank is as professional, pleasant, accommodating and most importantly, skilled, as you could ask for in a sailing instructor.  He graciously scheduled a private lesson for us in a very narrow window of availability (on our part.)  He went far beyond what should be expected to take us out on a particular day just before a major holiday.  Captain Frank had both a neophyte and a student with more experience and knowledge, in the same lesson, yet accommodated both seamlessly.  The Captain also communicates clearly, prior to the lesson, what you need to bring with you and what will be provided. He also keeps you informed regarding the best hours for sailing based on the weather and he updates you as warranted. The cost of the lesson was more than reasonable for the level of services and the time on the water. We have already made plans to book flights in from New Mexico, specifically to have lessons with Captain Frank again.

Ma
Review №10

After watching the America’s Cup for the first time about a year ago sailing was something that I couldn’t get off my mind. The idea of being out on the water and working both with and against the elements had a great allure and sense of adventure that couldn’t be denied any longer. I decided it was time to get out of my head and see if the reality of sailing was anything like what I had conjured up. After a quick Google search I found Sail Nola and consequently Frank. I shot Frank an email asking about availability. I also sent one to another company. Frank got back to me almost right away. The other company didn’t get back to me until the next afternoon and wasn’t extremely helpful in providing info when they did. My friend and I met Frank at the harbor in the morning and he methodically walked us through all the parts of the boat along with safety tips and some other great info. We took the boat out on a less than ideal day but still managed to have a great time learning the various points of sail and how to work with the wind. Frank is professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Thanks to him the reality of sailing was everything I hoped it would be. It’s because of this that we’ll continue to go out and learn from him instead of someone else.

Fe
Review №11

How much sailing experience do you have? What kind of boat do you want to sail? Even if your answers are none and I dont know, Captain Frank will design and execute a successful instruction program for you, as he did for me. He knows the principles and techniques of wind, spars and rigging, knots and piloting. Hell teach you to deal with varying water and weather conditions. Youll enjoy safe and fulfilling hours on the lake that youll be able to translate into independent sailing experiences. Hes affable. patient and dedicated to introducing you to a rewarding new world!

Ho
Review №12

I have over 15,000 blue water miles, but still, I was so pleasantly surprised when my family booked Capt Frank and Float On for my birthday. I had been wanting to get my 3 year old Grandson initiated in some way to sailing, not to mention getting back in the cockpit to read the telltales again. Both Frank and the boat were Ship-shape and Bristol fashion and every minute was an exhilarating joy and pleasure. He allowed me to take the helm from start to finish. His demeanor as a Captain is also first class and always supportive, instructive and complimentary. I asked him for a job, right then and there ! I highly recommend SailNOLA to both experienced and novice sailors, as the experience will stay with you forever.

Ni
Review №13

I had an amazing time learning to sail with Sail NOLA! Captain Frank is a wonderful person and a very patient and empowering instructor. He worked with my schedule and made sure we would have good lake conditions for each of my two sailing lessons. I had no prior sailing experience, but that was no problem. I learned how a sailboat works, the parts of the boat and how to sail safely. I got experience keeping the boat on course at the helm as well as working the sails while Frank steered. We had some fast winds during my second lesson and it was great to experience the boat going at top speed! I intend to continue boating with friends and I know I will feel comfortable and educated on board. I will definitely schedule refresher lessons with Sail NOLAbefore sailing trips in the future.

Au
Review №14

I had an amazing time learning to sail with Sail NOLA! Captain Frank is a wonderful person and a very patient and empowering instructor. He worked with my schedule and made sure we would have good lake conditions for each of my two sailing lessons. I had no prior sailing experience, but that was no problem. I learned how a sailboat works, the parts of the boat and how to sail safely. I got experience keeping the boat on course at the helm as well as working the sails while Frank steered. We had some fast winds during my second lesson and it was great to experience the boat going at top speed! I intend to continue boating with friends and I know I will feel comfortable and educated on board. I will definitely schedule refresher lessons with Sail NOLA before sailing trips in the future.

E
Review №15

My son-in-law, Christopher, and I had a wonderful time last week aboard Capt Frank’s boat, Float On, as he prepared us for a bare boat charter trip in the BVI. His boat is well equipped and rigged very much like the one we will be sailing. He gave us just the right amount of instruction and demonstration relative to our individual experience levels. He is a really great person with a wealth of experience to draw from for his instruction. I highly recommend Capt Frank and his boat to anyone seeking to learn more about sailing or preparing for a charter!

Ne
Review №16

We booked an afternoon cruise for a group of girls on a Bachelorette weekend and had the absolute best time! The boat was beautiful and such a great way to spend an afternoon. Frank took great care to make sure we had a great time. Would highly recommend for an activity to get out of the hustle of downtown NOLA and enjoy a beautiful day!

St
Review №17

I booked a cruise with Sail NOLA for my wife’s birthday, and Captain Frank and his family ensured that our family had beautiful and memorable experience. From the initial communication, Frank was responsive and considerate. He monitored the weather and accommodated a quick change of schedule in order to ensure that we would have optimal weather.Consistent with his responsiveness by phone and email, Captain Frank was punctual and ready for us when we arrived. The Float On was a beautiful, comfortable, and well-maintained vessel. Captain Frank was great with our 6-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter—even giving our son lessons on how to sail the boat. Capt. Frank was his newest hero (Our daughter was more interested in lounging.). Capt. Frank is easy to talk too, friendly, open, and unintrusive. We were all at ease and comfortable spending the afternoon with him.We capped off the evening with a delicious catered meal from some of our favorite local restaurants, while watching the sunset from the sailboat. It was a beautiful, and much-needed break from the day-to-day—a great way to unwind. Highly recommended - can’t wait to do it again!

Ma
Review №18

We booked this for my sister’s bachelorette party and had a great time! Frank was very hospitable and gave us helpful tips for how to spend the rest of our weekend. I cannot recommend this experience enough- a must-do while you’re visiting New Orleans!

Al
Review №19

The sailing was beautiful! Also, importantly Frank was a great Captain, he hung back and let us enjoy our time and conversation but was always there for a quick lesson or to answer any questions. Definitely would go again!

An
Review №20

Frank was such a pleasure to work with and made my dad’s birthday sail an experience we will treasure forever! We had a large group and Frank was attentive and accommodating the entire time... even allowing my dad, who sailed years ago, to take the helm and show off for his family. I would highly recommend anyone who is looking for the opportunity to sail to work with Frank and Sail Nola. Wonderful experience!

Ki
Review №21

Only recommendation I would give to anyone looking for a unique, private, exhilarating experience on the water in or around NOLA! Did not quite know what to expect, having never been on an excursion like this before; but the entire group of us walked away feeling all bases were covered. Captain Frank is a natural host, extremely knowledgable and friendly! All previous reviews Ive read were 100% consistent with our experience! Thanks Captain Frank!

Ma
Review №22

This was honestly a SUBLIME experience. Frank was an absolutely incredible host — so amazingly accommodating and genuinely invested in us having an wonderful time. We hosted a surprise birthday for a friend on his boat, and it couldnt have been a more phenomenal experience. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Ni
Review №23

The sunset cruise with Frank was such an amazing and memorable experience. We celebrated my best friends 25th birthday and Frank was so accommodating and allowed me to decorate his boat!!! We couldnt have asked for better weather to sail. It was so picture perfect...popping champagne, listening and dancing to music and ending the day with the most spectacular sunset. Highly recommend Sail Nola- Frank is just the sweetest and will make sure you have a great time!

Be
Review №24

What an amazing experience! The evening could not have gone any better. Captain Frank was so knowledgeable and a truly gifted captain of this beautiful sailboat. He was friendly and kind And gave us our space when needed for our special moment. The charcuterie board and wine as well as dessert was such a treat. This entire adventure with SAILNOLA should not be missed by anyone!

Ch
Review №25

Captain Frank is a very friendly, polite, and patient sail instructor. He gets you sailing right away to get you excited, then begins to teach you the finer points of sailing. What a great way to learn! I highly recommend SAILNOLA!

Ti
Review №26

Everyone who has a remote interest in sailing but may be intimidated should book with Sail NOLA. My husband and I had very little experience with sailing before taking private lessons with Capt. Frank at Sail NOLA. Frank started the day by giving us a basic lesson on the terminology, equipment and safety principles.He then allowed us (with great instruction) to give it a try ourselves on day one. Having a patient, dedicated, thorough instructor made the experience truly a one of a kind! We even caught some frightening weather towardthe end of our lesson but Capt. Frank handled it with great expertise. We look forward to our future in sailing, thanks to Frank!

Jo
Review №27

We spent a terrific morning with Captain Frank on Lake Ponchetrain! In addition to being a fine sailor and teacher, Captain Frank is a terrific guy. My wife, a friend, and I went out for a sail on the lake. While my wife and I were interested in simply enjoying some time on the water, our friend, who has some sailing experience, was keen to take the wheel. Captain Frank guided her expertly and our pal was elated, (as were we - smooth sailing). Thank you Captain Frank!

pa
Review №28

Living the dream, exceptional afternoon sailing with Capt Frank Jones. Frank is quite patience and kind, an outstanding teacher. Highly recommend the opportunity to sail with Capt Frank Jones.PK Tucker

as
Review №29

Wow. A wonderful experience and a talented instructor. My boyfriend and I took two lessons from Frank- zero sailing experience prior- Frank was patient, confidence-inspiring and fun to spend a day with. We had a tremendous time on his lovely boat and learned a great deal. No better way to spend an afternoon. Cannot recommend him highly enough.

Br
Review №30

Thanks to Captain Frank! We had wonderful time aboard, and can’t wait to go again.. Captain Frank is very patient and all around wonderful teacher... we had lunch and drinks aboard to add to this dreamy experience...highly recommend and look forward to going again soon!

Am
Review №31

We had a lesson with Sail Nola and it was an incredible experience. The conditions were perfect for a day of sailing. I would highly recommend having a lesson with captain frank if you are thinking about learning how to sail.

A
Review №32

I could not have made a better choice than Sail Nola! Despite some patchy weather and scheduling conflicts the entire experience was PERFECT. Capt Frank was extremely knowledgeable & accommodating and the boat was a beauty! Sail Nola is the way to go.

Te
Review №33

August 26, 2018 was a special evening for me and my 6 guests. I was celebrating my 60th birthday in New Orleans. I wanted to do something extraordinary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Captain Frank Jones and his daughter Nicky made my birthday weekend very special.The guests thoroughly enjoyed the peacefulness of the Lake and the skill of the captain. We were treated to quite the sunset in the end.I highly recommend a sail on Lake Ponchatrain with Captain Frank Jones.It will be a memorable trip

Ja
Review №34

I took my girlfriend on a sailing lesson for two with Captain Frank and she had the time of her life. Captain Frank is easy going, patient, and professional. He made both of us feel comfortable in the boat and we had a blast sailing on a beautiful and windy day! We both highly recommend Sail NOLA, and are looking forward to our next lesson.

Su
Review №35

We had a great time with Captain Frank. He has an easygoing nature, and he was very comfortable with teaching us some sailing techniques, which made the rise more enjoyable for us. We can see he has much experience and is able to deal with any circumstances that may arise, so you will feel confident in your safety with him.

Ci
Review №36

Sailing with Capt Frank was a pure delight. The whole experience was great from start to finish. I especially enjoyed being able to take the helm and experience some nice winds on the Lake. Capt Frank has a pleasant and calm manner which is always a bonus when sailing!

Ne
Review №37

Sunset cruise with Frank was a great expereince from start to finish. He really went out of his way to ensure our first sailing adventure was a memorable one - all in a relaxed, informative, safe, competent manner. Highly recommended as we had a great time and are now looking forward to lessons aboard Float On with Frank soon.

Ja
Review №38

We had a wonderful Saturday sail with Sail Nola. Captain Frank is a joy to be around. He was kind to our kiddos and let them sail the boat. He is an excellent sailer and we feel very comfortable with him as our captain. Being out on the lake is a sublime way to get away and enjoy a sunset, birds’ singing and the wind in your hair.

Ta
Review №39

Frank is AMAZING! We had such a good time doing a sunset cruise while on a girls trip to NOLA. He was so accommodating and let us bring our own cake and decorations. The boat cruise was definitely the highlight of our experience! Would absolutely recommend! :)

Kr
Review №40

I was in NOLA this past weekend for a bachelorette party, and we can all agree this was the one of the highlights of our trip. Captain Frank was great and very helpful with any of our questions we had about the area/recommendations for local fun/making sure our overall experience was wonderful. We watched the sunset on the water while drinking champagne, enjoying the view, and listening to some music. I can speak for our party when I say we highly recommend a cruise be added to your agenda when traveling to NOLA.

Ka
Review №41

My fiancé and I took an afternoon cruise with Frank. He was so friendly and accommodating. He even gave us a quick lesson about some of the basics of sailing. He is a great teacher. The cruise is very romantic and lovely for a couple but would be lots of fun for a group as well.

an
Review №42

Just do it. If you’ve always been curious about sailing and what it must feel like to move with nothing but the wind, there is no time like the present. The session is immediately hands on and informative. Cap’n Frank is a teacher, and within three hours you will have a feel for helming the boat and a knowledge of basic points of sail and tacking. Once you’ve seen it and felt it, any reading or online study you do about sailing will make so much more sense. My second lesson is coming up and I can’t wait.

Mo
Review №43

First sailing lesson for my wifes birthday... Could not have been more impressed with Frank and his boat! Learned so much on our first lesson. My wife and I are hooked and we will be back for lesson #2 very soon. Thank you Frank for such a wonderful experience!Douglas & Mona

Bi
Review №44

My daughter and I had a marvelous sail with Frank. Hes great at conveying his expertise while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable. He immediately put us to work sailing the boat. I highly recommended SailNOLA for anyone interested in a cruise or a lesson or both.

Em
Review №45

My husband took me for a sunset cruise on Oct. 27th. It was part lesson, part sightseeing, and all sailing fun. Captain Jones was patient, professional, and entertaining. We enjoyed his company, and hope to see him again sometime.

An
Review №46

Take the Sunset Cruise with Captain Frank! You won’t regret it. Perfect for date night, birthdays, anniversaries etc. You choose your menu and alcohol. What could be more perfect?!?? We will be back with friends!

Al
Review №47

Where to begin?.?........... First off, any notion of an authoritative skipper will be put to rest as soon as you meet Capt. Frank. He is punctual but also catered to a tardy student (me) without any gripes. Expect to be met with a warm smile and a basic rundown of all the safety equipment onboard, a keystone of any seasoned skipper. There are many skills to be learned with sailing and Mr. Frank let me set my own pace on tackling certain ones that I felt I needed more instruction and practice. A+ vessel and equipment beyond par from the normal weekend cruiser and an instructor who’s only concern, besides his vessel and passengers safety, is their enjoyment of the experience. Whether you plan on taking an enjoyable cruise on the lake or honing in on your sailing skills, Sail NOLA is capable of catering to all of your needs.

Do
Review №48

My husband and I shared a unique and wonderful Valentines Day sunset cruise with SailNOLA and Capt. Frank. We sailed over the lake for 2 and 1/2 hours at sunset, and it was fantastic. The 36 boat was very comfortable and Capt. Frank stocked it with wine and cheese - it was quite romantic and special! Weve recommended Sail NOLA to all of our friends and will definitely do it again for a birthday, anniversary, or just to relax at the end of a long day - after Mardi Gras, Capt. Frank is getting a larger, 42 boat, which will be even better. The price is reasonable, especially if you share it, and its a great opportunity to sail with a professional for a fun time!

jo
Review №49

We had a great time sailing with Captain Frank. Hes very nice and also quite knowledgeable and gave our 7 year old her first sailing lesson. She loved it. We will sail with Captain Frank again.

Om
Review №50

I had the opportunity to get my first sailing class with Captain Frank, and it is definitely where you want to start if you are considering sailing. He is very encouraging person, and puts you at the helm from the beginning. I have learnt a lot for a first class, and will definitely come back to learn more.

Je
Review №51

Frank provided a wonderful experience aboard his beautiful vessel Irie for the 92nd birthday celebration of our family patriarch Al who has aspired to sail for many years. He was patient and kind in allowing and guiding Al in how to sail Irie. We cant thank him enough for helping us to fulfill Als dream of being at the helm!!!

St
Review №52

Really enjoyed our cruise with Frank. Highly recommend it for any group size. Very relaxing and he even gave a great lesson. Book with Captain Frank!

Am
Review №53

Cant say enough good things about Sail Nola! We had a private lesson with Capt. Frank and he made us feel completely at home and let us decide how much we were comfortable with taking on....I had so much fun...our two hours flew right by. Ill be back!

Je
Review №54

Had a great time with Frank on the Float On ! Lessons included some more advanced topics like emergency/troubleshooting and docking. Highly recommended for sailors of all skill levels.

El
Review №55

Captain Frank and Nikki were great! We sailed as a part of a father/son 60th and 30th birthday celebration. We had been to New Orleans many times, so I wanted to incorporate an excursion on this trip to make it extra special. Sail NOLA didn’t disappoint! We learned about sailing, had mimosas and a cheese and meat plate, and enjoyed a beautiful morning on the water! This is a perfect activity for any age and a great way to enjoy a different part of NOLA. Highly recommend!

Kr
Review №56

Loved it!! Captain Jones was wonderful! I was just on it this past Sunday for a bachelorette party and we had a blast! It was such an amazing time! I will definitely be back next time I visit NOLA!!

Ke
Review №57

We took this excursion as part of a bachelorette party and it was-by far- my favorite part of the weekend. Captain Frank was very cordial and friendly and made the trip awesome for all of us. It was very relaxing and didnt feel rushed at all. Highly recommend!

J
Review №58

My sail with Captain Frank was the highlight of my friends bachelorette weekend in NOLA. It was so relaxing, and beautiful and was the result of the best pictures from our whole weekend. Including the ones curtesy of the Captain. We enjoyed champagne as we watched the sunset and listened to some tunes. it was such a pleasure to sail with Captain Frank I would highly recommend it for your stay in NOLA.

Al
Review №59

Our bachelorette party had such a wonderful experience sailing at sunset with Sail Nola! Captain Frank was so knowledgeable and accommodating and very committed to making sure our party had a great time. We will be back!

Er
Review №60

We had a great time with Frank sailing on Lake Pontchartrain. Great work team outing and I can highly recommend it to anyone.

Ri
Review №61

My wife and I did a dinner cruise. The experience was fantastic, and we plan to take further lessons!

Va
Review №62

This sunset sail was one of the surprises for my bachelorette weekend, and it was definitely one of the biggest highlights ! We had so much fun relaxing, listening to music and sipping champagne. I absolutely recommend a sail with capt jones to anyone visiting New Orleans!

Mi
Review №63

My fiancé and I needed to prepare for sailing the BVIs. One of us acquired a sailing certificate and sailed a few voyages, but it was years and years ago. One of us has never set foot on a sailboat and needed to become comfortable onboard. I was drawn to Frank and Sail Nola because his website emphasized learning by sailing experience from the beginning as opposed to the educational certificates. Frank’s assertion was correct, and his lessons were the perfect choice. You can learn and actively participate as much or as little as you prefer. Seriously, you can kick back or you can grab a line and a winch. Frank always worked with our limited schedule availability to make sure we were able to sail. From the very first email when I reached out to Frank, he was professional, courteous, helpful and available anytime. He even took us sailing on our first lesson although he was a bit under the weather. Our time on the water always flew by, and each lesson we learned tips and tricks for the particular scenario in which we found ourselves. Frank is a font of information if you ask. We’re ready to go and we couldn’t have done it without Frank!

cr
Review №64

We had a great time sunset cruizen with Capt Frank and will definitely book again.

Ke
Review №65

Great time sailing with Capt. Frank! Cant wait to do it again!

Jo
Review №66

Fantastic birthday experience! Right here in NOLA.

Information
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66 Comments
5 Rating
  • Address:6701 Stars and Stripes Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126, United States
  • Phone:+1 504-390-8370
Categories
  • Sailing school
  • Cruise agency
  • Training centre
Working hours
  • Monday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Tuesday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Wednesday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Thursday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Friday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Saturday:8:30AM–9PM
  • Sunday:8:30AM–9PM
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