My hubby and I have been yearning for the sailing life for literal years now, and we decided that this summer was the perfect time to start making that dream a reality by taking the first sailing course, ASA 101! Our initial thought was to find a sailing school in Kemah, but I wondered if there was one closer to us, and, sure enough, there is! Enter Outbound Sailing on Lake Travis. We scheduled our class right away online, and the manager, Sean, confirmed with us almost immediately. Both he and Tim, the business owner, were absolute pleasures to work with! When the day finally came for Day 1 of our ASA 101 course, we headed over to Lakeway to meet our instructor, Spencer, at the dock, and, y'all, he is seriously the most open, sweet, encouraging, and engaging person ever, and that's not hyperbole! I was extremely nervous about the whole thing, but he immediately made me feel INCREDIBLY at ease, and, we got straight to work! From beginning to end, hubby and I knew that Spencer had our backs, from the dock talks to the rigging talks to the knot talks to the hours of beautiful practice sailing. He made all of that hard work feel like pure fun! Make no mistake, though, y'all! It IS hard work, and you need to know that going in! It's an actual class, so don't expect mimosas and charcuterie boards as you sail! LOL! You need to Really. Want. To. Learn. How. To. Sail. We did, so we were all in! Pro tip: When they tell you to buy the official ASA book for the course and to study it PRIOR to the class, take them seriously! Study, and especially commit the Points of Sail and the sailboat, sails, and rigging parts to memory. Also, do the 4 review sections! It'll all make things a lot easier on you! There's a 100 multiple choice question official ASA exam that you take on the morning of Day 2, and, while Spencer was a GENIUS at preparing us for it, we were able to spend more time actually sailing because of how prepared we made ourselves ahead of time! After two intense and awesome days, hubby and I both ended up passing the course to become ASA 101 certified (yay!), but, most importantly, we truly had the time of our lives doing it, and we absolutely have Spencer LeGrande and Outbound Sailing to thank for that! read more

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We just finished our ASA 101 training with Captain Scott, and he was very kind when explaining how we inadvertently made the sailboat do crazy things! LOL Captain Scott is a skilled sailor and a wonderful instructor... I'd take another class from him any time. Captain Tim, one of the owners, met with my wife and me before we decided to take the lessons. He spent all the time needed to answer all of our questions and explain the process. Lake Travis is a good place to take your sailing training, the winds come from all directions and are constantly changing. We are looking forward to further honing our sailing skills and sailing with Outbound Sailing. We highly recommend you check them out if you're thinking about learning to sail. read more

We had a Bachelorette sunset cruise with Outbound Sailing, and we were happy about the service. We spent a majority of the time out on the boat just relaxing, chatting, enjoying the sail and scenery while Captain Doran sails the boat. It was a wonderful time, and the pictures we took on the boat looked awesome after. The boat itself was very nice and the interior had a small kitchen with a mini-frig, seating space, bedroom, and small toilet room. Communication was easy with Tim and Captain Doran, and questions are always answered in timely manner. They were both nice and easy to talk to. Payment was also easy, they took credit cards over the phone, and when asked for invoice, they also promptly send it by email. I would definitely recommend Outbound Sailing for sailing cruises. read more

Absolutely would recommend this business to anyone who wants to take sailing lessons. It may be more pricey than you will find elsewhere, but I promise that it's worth it. Basically, and especially if you take a course with a friend or significant other, you get two full days of private lessons on nice, large sailboats. Way better than other courses that we have seen offered. I admit that I was terrified going into it, because the act of sailing seemed so daunting. Our instructor, Tim (who happens to own the business), was incredibly nice and patient! All of the classes have tests (it's an ASA thing, not business-specific), and Tim spent time with us after talking through the couple of questions we got wrong. Again, if you want to learn to sail, this is absolutely where you need to be. read more

I just completed the 101 course and would highly recommend Outbound Sailing to anyone. Tim and Doran are extremely knowledgeable, fun and attentive and make a personal commitment to ensuring each student learns the art and science of sailing. I look forward to additional courses with them and to many hours on the water. - Dean Kuhlmann read more

Capt. Doran took me out on Pico (Catalina Capri 18) for a 4-hr, hands-on sailing class. Capt. Doran was eager to share his extensive expertise. He was punctual and personable. I had a great time, learned a ton, and now feel confident to take out a small - medium sailboat, single-handed. I have no problems highly recommending Outbound Sailing. read more

I recently got the bug to learn how to sail and did some research to find the best place to do so on Lake Travis. The reviews led me to Outbound Sailing and I must say it was even better than I expected. I took the 101 with a friend last month with Tim and really learned more than I thought I would about sailing. His years of experience, kind and funny personality, and the equipment all combine to make an outstanding experience. We did not have good enough wind to finish the 2nd day on the water so Tim scheduled us for this last weekend at no additional cost. I love his philosophy that he just wants to make people into good sailors who will enjoy the sport - I feel that some places would just say "tough luck" if the weather didn't cooperate. On the makeup day we were with Doran because Tim was already busy. Doran was just as amazing and we learned a ton! We then got checked out on the little boat, "Pico", before dropping Doran off and sailing alone for the first time. We felt quite prepared for the experience, but yet still realized we have so much to learn and need much more experience. We will be using Pico at the discounted "student rate" to get some experience until we can take the next class and start using the larger boats. I think this is a great way to organize the classes and allow for some great practice as we "move up" in the sailing world. Looking forward to taking the next classes and growing my knowledge and experience in the sailing world. BVI and Belize, I'll be there before you know it to charter a sailboat with friends and family. read more

Outbound Sailing - Boating Near Me - Lakeway, Texas

Capt. Doran was my instructor for ASA 101 and provided an outstanding service. His insight, experience, knowledge and colorful stories culminate in an amazing experience. Anyone looking to obtain their certification should be considering Outbound for developing an excellent foundation to your sailing journey. read more

We used outbound sailing for a girls weekend in Austin.It was the highlight of the weekend! Outbound sailing has such well kept boats and captain Tim was amazing at catering our sail to our needs. Would highly recommend them!!! read more

Outbound Sailing - Boating Near Me - Lakeway, Texas

Tim Taylor from Outbound Sailing took 4 of us out Sailing earlier today and he didn't make a dime on the whole outing. You see, Outbound Sailing takes volunteers at Big Brothers Big Sisters out for Sailing adventures and they don't ask for anything in return. And as a matter of fact, due to bad weather, Tim had to reschedule our trip 4 or 5 times and every single time he was cheerful and easy to work with. We had a great day of Sailing lessons, swimming and sunshine and writing this review is the least I could do. Highly recommend these guys for any sort of outing you might come up with and if you have kids that you want to introduce to Sailing... Well, they have a lot of experience! read more

I'll first start with my experience even prior to getting on the boat. While other companies were difficult to reach, OBS was quick at answer and booking was simple with a $75 deposit. On the day of our reservation, they informed us of where to park and was on time. We met Captain Doran and went on our way along the Colorado River on Boomerang. The water was nice enough to go for a swim. Several of my sail mates dived right in. Also during the trip, he pointed out some interesting landmarks and even a celebrity home! As we were returning to shore, I was able to take control at the wheel, which was an amazing feeling. All in all, I'm so glad we went with Outbound Sailing (OBS). This was an excellent first time for me! Can't wait to go back when the wind picks up. read more

I just completed ASA 101 (Basic Keelboat Sailing) Certification course and I could not have had a better experience. My boyfriend and I have dreams of traveling the world on a sailboat, but I had zero experience sailing and he had some experience as a kid but no formal training. We thought we might have to go to the coast for proper lessons, but we found good reviews of Tim Taylor / Outbound Sailing online and I'm so glad we did. From the beginning, you can tell that Tim cares about offering quality, personal instruction to meet the needs of whatever your goals might be. There is an initial meeting where you are introduced to Tim and the boats. If you like what you see, you pay a deposit and take home the ASA 101 book to read and study before your lessons (which you should do because it accelerates your lesson if you are already familiar with the basics - at least in theory). The ASA 101 course is two full days that comprise of talking over the book/theory, practical instruction with knots, getting the boat ready and put away, handling the boat under power, and plenty of sailing. I highly appreciated Tim's instruction style. It is calm, encouraging, personable and humorous. It's never intimidating, demeaning or heavy-handed. As a couple, my boyfriend and I were treated equally and got equal time at the helm, as crew on the lines, and practicing each skill such as raising the mainsail or maneuvering the boat back into the slip. Our comments and questions were always welcome. Insider's tip: watch out for Slim, the grog-loving PFD. I'm looking forward to going back for ASA 103 and beyond. Thanks for a great first course, Tim! read more

Loved our experience with Captain Tim. He took my husband and I out for a sunset sail on our wedding anniversary. The boat was immaculate and Tim was charming and showed us a great time. We were also lucky that the weather was perfect and it was just so peaceful on Lake Travis. Will plan on sailing with Captain Tim again! read more

Outbound Sailing - Sunset on Lake Travis - Boating Near Me - Lakeway, Texas

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What an amazing experience we had with Tim and Outbound Sailing last weekend! It was an absolute pleasure being on this amazing boat that had exactly all we needed. We had comfortable seating for all five of us, sweet tunes going through the onboard speakers, a grill to cook up some lunch, a fridge for our cold ones, and a bathroom. Tim went above and beyond to make sure we had a fantastic time, including letting us take part in manning the boat and dropping us off for swims along the way. Sailing with him really made our vacation weekend and I would highly recommend this package to anyone! read more

My husband and I decided on a sunset sailing cruise for one of our many 9th anniversary treats. It was quite fantastic! Tim is not only a fantastic captain, but he is a gracious host and we couldn't have had a more enjoyable time. My husband grew up sailing, so he was quite excited to assist and take the helm. We were blessed with beautiful weather and an incredible sunset. We look forward to our next voyage!! Thanx Tim!!! ~Julz & Jake read more

Wonderful experience, Tim Taylor is extremely passionate about what he does. From this, you get great value and an solid education on sailing. I took the ASA 101 sailing course from him, individual lesson. My story: I am embarking on a 40 day sailing voyage around the Caribbean. I will be living on a sailboat, scuba diving, and visiting many different remote islands. In preparation for this, I decided to find sailing lessons that could prepare me. After shopping around and talking to multiple sailing teachers, I chose Tim. I chose him because on the phone, he basically prescribed me my lesson. He said he would touch on things I should be prepared for...etc. When we began sailing, he did everything he said and more. I took away more than just a 101 ASA sailing certification, but enhanced skills when it came to trimming the sails and rescuing some one overboard. Tim said I learned fast, but I only have him to thank for it. PS: His Australian accent really heightens the experience. read more

Tim Taylor just provided me with ASA 101, 103 and 104 instruction and testing. It was a fantastic experience. Not only does Tim have a way of teaching that simplifies and greatly emphasis on the real world of sailing, but he does so in a really positive manner that makes one want to learn more and excel at all aspects of sailing. From man overboard drills to tacking and jybing to knot tying, Tim's experience and years spent on boats comes through in a delightful way. Chris read more

My husband and I sailed with Captain Tim yesterday afternoon. It was such a beautiful experience. The boat was clean and well maintained. Right away we felt safe and in good hands. He has sailed all through Florida and the Caribbean so his stories and experience are very interesting. We had a particularly windy sail so it was really fun when he tacked the sails. He took us on a 2 hour ride and pointed out the different areas and homes around the lake. We will definitely be back again for another sail in April. Thanks Tim!! read more

"I had a great time sailing" ...yeah, I've heard that before. The sailing 101 class was way more than what that cliché statement captures. This was an eye-opening experience and the lessons just completely opened a whole new world for me! The entire experience was epic, starting with going to the marina, meeting our captain, Tim; aka "nerves of steel". Heck even the classroom was on a sailboat! I am a structural engineer and I have owned several boats in the past including a 51-foot boat, I thought I was knowledgeable.... WRONG! I realized that I really did not know ANYTHING! I should have taken this class prior to even getting a power boat. Heck I should have signed my kids up for this class as it will provide life lessons for them that they won't be able to get anywhere else. I learned things I never even thought about, regarding untying the boat, reversing, motoring, setting the sails, tacking, jibing, heeling over, more tacking, more jibing until I was exhausted. Finally, packing everything up correctly, wrapping up the lines, tying things off. I was taught that there is a proper order for every single movement that you make on the boat. There is a right way and wrong way to even get on board! Outbound Sailing's boats are very nice and very clean. Right when I walked up I could see the tidy knots, and lines that were wrapped. The membership process is cool which allows me to practice on sailboats without having to own a sailboat. I plan on practicing on their little boat Pico and working my way up to the larger boats. I have already signed up for the next class and can't wait to work my way up where we go as a class to the Caribbean! The class only has 1 other student, so I got to do every part of the crew jobs. I can't say enough about the experience, you just must sign up and experience it for yourself!! read more

I wish I could leave a 0 for this company. Tim of Outbound Sailing needs to be taught customer service skills when dealing with customers as he clearly has none. Take your business elsewhere. read more

I have taken ASA 101, 103 and 104. For 104 my wife and I went on one of Tim's Sailing/Training vacation and it was phenomenal. Tim is so knowledgeable, patient and commanding (at the right times). We all went to the BVI, UVI and Puerto Rico and learned a ton. Highly recommend taking 101 or training's with Tim. Could not hope to find a better experience. read more

I highly recommend private lessons with Tim over any other ASA program in the area after researching many alternates - his boats are beautiful and he is a fantastic teacher at all levels. with this program you start on a nimble 28' mid sized boat and finish your classes on a 31'. I have to date done Asa 101 and 103 with 104 next up and my confidence as well as proficiency at sailing has improved many fold. Outbound also offers a growing fleet of crazy well kept boats in their membership fleet which also seems like a great set up (I'm not a member yet but may be after my classes). In short I highly recommend anyone to outbound sailing and you will really enjoy working with Tim! read more

Wow! What a great experience! My wife and I have always wanted to learn how to sail and instead of starting with tiny boats and teaching ourselves, we decided to take the leap and learn how to sail a real boat right, the first time. After some internet searching and looking at reviews online, for not only Texas but around the country, we decided to use Tim from Outbound Sailing. The small class approach (usually only 2 people at a time) really suited our approach to things, not to mention more time on each skill! Going into sailing with very limited knowledge can be a little overwhelming. Tim made it very relaxed, enjoyable, and most of all fun! We took both the ASA 101 and ASA 103 and have come away feeling very confident in our ability to safely sail a 30+ ft. sailboat together or singlehanded. If you are thinking about learning how to sail either to eventually do a charter in some other country or just for the new skill set, I can't recommend Tim more. As soon as our schedule allows we will be back to take ASA 104 and further our knowledge. Thanks Tim! read more

With friends, did a sunset cruise with Outbound Sailing December 30 on Lake Travis. We had a wonderful time with our captain, Doran. None of us had sailed on Lake Travis and we had a wonderful time. We brought out own snacks and drinks. It was a lot of fun and my friends are still talking about it. If you want to impress your friends or have a special outing in Austin.... I would highly recommend Outbound sailing..... read more

Tim is an amazing teacher with a very hands on and personalized touch! He made it easy to sail through ASA 101, 103, and 104 at my own pace and got me ready for the BVIs on my own! He is light hearted, laid back, but has a serious attention to detail! He makes everyday on the water fun and comfortable. I look forward to staying friends with Tim and planning flotilla many trips together! read more

I had a terrific experience learning to sail with Outbound Sailing. Tim made me very comfortable with their process and was even kind enough to meet with me before I signed up to show me the boats. Doran was my instructor and he was terrific. Doran has a way of explaining the complicated in an incredibly simple way. He was patient when I made mistakes and quickly shared best practices from decades of his personal experience. I loved his sailing stories and his Camraderie for the two days we spent in class and in the water. I passed my exam easily thanks to their help and look forward to many more days in the water read more

I just returned from Outbound Sailing's November Adventure Learning trip to the Virgin Islands and had the absolute best experience! I wasn't taking a certification course, but 3 men on the trip were and I was able to watch them learn so much and gain a lot of sailing knowledge and experience, while at the same time having an amazing time! We were able to explore 8 islands in 9 days, doing some long passages and also stopping to snorkel, eat ashore, and explore the beautiful British, Spanish, and US Virgin Islands. Tim is an amazing person and incredible sailing instructor - we really had a great time with him. Would highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in learning to sail or just interested in being around it and going along to support their significant other! AMAZING experience, thanks so much to Tim for all that he does!! read more

My wife and I were looking for a location in the San Antonio / Austin area to take a basic sailing course certified through the American Sailing Association (ASA). We received the recommendation to seek out Tim Taylor with Outbound Sailing. After a two day course, where we both met all of ASA Keelboard 101 standards, I can tell you that Tim is simply a great instructor. He has the unique ability to clearly define reachable goals, walk the student through a process, talk them through the execution, and then let them take full control with confidence. Within two days, both my wife and I were able to handle all aspects of sailing a mid-size sailboat with confidence and ease. Tim's easy going personality and clear instruction under the ASA lesson plans had us tacking, jibing, trimming sails, and managing the sailboat quickly and without anxiety. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking the same level of instruction through ASA. read more