sail better. race smarter. go further
I'm Stephen Skinner — a passionate sailor, US Sailing Certified Instructor, and USCG licensed captain with over 20 years on the water. I offer private coaching, performance coaching, and charter captain services in San Diego and along the Southern California coast.
I teach at J/World Performance Sailing School in San Diego CA.
Sailing has taken me from San Diego Bay to Hawaii, Antigua, Ensenada, and deep into Baja — across Transpacs, race weeks, offshore passages, and everything in between. That experience shapes every session I teach.
Lifted Tack is the personal side of my teaching — flexible, one-on-one, and built around your goals, your boat, and your schedule. Whether you're just finding your sea legs or preparing to race offshore, I'll meet you where you are.
For structured courses, group programs, and US Sailing certifications, I teach at J/World Performance Sailing School — San Diego's premier sailing school for over 40 years. Not sure which is right for you? Ask me.
Get in touch - I’m happy to point you in the right direction.
How can I help?
Personalized instruction on your boat or at J/World — your pace, your goals, your schedule.
Private Coaching
J/World's race clinics are the best place to start — I help teach them. For sailors ready to go further, I also offer one-on-one coaching, focused on the specific skills your racing needs most.
performance coaching
ready to get on the water?
Whether you’re looking for personal coaching or a structured sailing program, let’s figure out the right fit together.
charter captain
Navigation, safety, and the helm for day sails, charters, and deliveries. A great way to build confidence after your certification at J/World.
