For over 40 years, the Irish National Sailing and Powerboat School has been Ireland’s leading destination for sailing and powerboat training. Located at the foot of the West Pier in Dún Laoghaire Harbour, we have welcomed more than 200,000 people onto the water since our establishment in 1978.

With a team of full-time, professional instructors, we operate all year round, giving you more opportunities to get on the water, build confidence and develop skills—whatever your experience level. From complete beginners taking their first steps afloat to seasoned sailors refining their technique, our passion lies in delivering exceptional training in a fun, safe and supportive environment.

We believe sailing should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer a wide range of affordable, high-quality courses across sailing and powerboating, including scheduled programmes and bespoke one-to-one training tailored to your goals.

What We Offer

A Proud Sailing Heritage

Founded by Alistair Rumball in 1978, the school began in modest surroundings on Dún Laoghaire’s main street before growing into the nationally recognised training centre it is today. In 1991, we moved to our current waterfront location on the West Pier, perfectly positioned in one of Ireland’s finest sailing harbours.

Throughout the decades, we have led the way in introducing more people to sailing than any other organisation in Ireland—while also breaking down barriers by offering affordable course fees, proving that sailing does not have to be an expensive sport.

Today, our reputation is built on experience, innovation, safety and an unwavering commitment to customer enjoyment. When you sail with us, you are joining a community that lives and breathes the water.

Our Fleet & Facilities

Our extensive fleet of over 300 modern, well-maintained vessels ensures the right boat for every age, ability and course. This includes:

  • Dinghies, keelboats and yachts
  • A large fleet of kayaks
  • Over 30 powerboats for training and safety support

Every vessel is maintained to the highest standard by our dedicated full-time maintenance team at our on-site boathouse in Dún Laoghaire Harbour, ensuring reliability, safety and performance every time you sail.

Sail Training Fleet

We have the largest dinghy training fleet in Ireland, with boats selected with course environment and the perfect student experience. Our fleet of 8 identical J80s are maintained in house and our Yacht Beaufort Venture is one of the world's first training yachts to be propelled by an electric motor.

Powerboat Training Fleet

In additon to our large safety boat fleet for dinghies and keelboats, check out Ireland's largest and most diverse powerboat training fleet.