Sailing on the Potomac

Sailing Club of Washington One of the great things about life in Alexandria VA is the proximity to two public marinas: one at Belle Haven and the other at Potowmack Landing north of Old Town. I have always wanted to sail, and yesterday Julie surprised me by signing us up for a social sail with the Sailing Club of Washington. sailing The Sailing Club of Washington is a group of over 400 people that includes a mixture of folks who have never sailed but want to learn and old salts who've been sailing for years along with those who simply enjoy socializing with other sailing enthusiasts. The Sailing Club of Washington (SCOW) is a 501(c)(7) organization (a social club) that was originally chartered on July 12, 1966 "to provide the membership thereof with the opportunity and instrumentalities to become expert in the art of sailing for their individual and mutual education, benefit and enjoyment." Tango II on the water This boat used to be a club boat, but it's owned by a member who still shares it with the club. The Sailing Club has six boats:
  • four 19' Flying Scots;
  • two 25' Catalinas
The boats are kept at the Washington Sailing Marina just south of National Airport. SCOW offers classes, individual use of our boats, club sponsored activities and a place for sailors in the D.C. area to come together and enjoy the sport and recreation of sailing. Jules on the way to the boat. We were excited as we prepared to board the vessel. It was a short walk along the dock and then we boarded. at the dock at Sailing Club National Airport is visible behind us. The winds were light and steady, perfect for beginners. sailing on the Potomac There were several other vessels nearby, most were sailors but there were a few flat-bottom fishermen out as well. Will Nesbitt After we were underway, the skipper let me man the tiller! What fun! I had to make sure that we caught the right wind, without hitting posts or other boats. I'm at the tiller on the Potomac Julie snapped a couple of pictures of me having a blast. Preparing to tack Eventually the sun started to set and it was time to head back to port. dock What a great club! I can't endorse this activity enough. The fees are reasonable, the company was pleasant. And I really like sailing. Sunset on the Potomac We'll be back another day. If you're looking for a home near the marina, you might consider some of the following communities:

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Will Nesbitt About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo Alexandria. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

A little about Belle Haven Marina

Belle Haven Marina
Docks at Belle Haven Marina on the Potomac River
Belle Haven Marina is found on the George Washington Parkway just south of historic Old Town Alexandria. Belle Haven Marina is owned by the National Park Service and operated by Belle Haven Marina Inc. The Belle Haven Marina is a short walk from River Towers, Belle View and New Alexandria. Rowboats, canoes, kayaks and sail boats are available for rent. Sign-up for sailing lessons and your package will include a limited number of free hours of sailing. The Marina has a short pier and the George Washington Parkway has many points to fish the Potomac River. Many anglers rent or own boats which ply more serene and secluded spots nearby.

From the marina, one can see the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

For more information or to set up an appointment call Stuart at (703)765-0300.  

Alexandria Waterfront

Foxy in the boat at Fountainhead
Foxy likes fishing!
I love living near the Potomac River in the Northern VA Area. There are lots of ways to enjoy the water here and I've experienced most all of them.  This is one of the reasons I love Belle View, Bucknell, New Alexandria, Old Town, Belle Haven and many other communities here that have easy access to the River. From Waynewood to Stratford on the Potomac there are quaint neighborhoods with great homes.

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Sailing the Potomac in late spring

Julie and I went sailing again. This time we put in at the Belle Haven Marina near Belle View condos and New Alexandria. boat launch at Belle Haven Marina The marina has plenty of sailboats, canoes and kayaks for rent. They also offer lessons. Check out the spelling on the sign. sailing Julie sailing We had a great time on the Potomac. The winds were steady and fairly strong. sailing We were on the river until nearly sundown. Potomac River
Will Nesbitt About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo Alexandria. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.