To ensure the safety of our Members, guests, sailboats, and others, Minneapolis Sailing Center uses a wind speed rating system. Our rating system is unique to our program and regardless of prior certifications received elsewhere, every member must receive a rating with us. There are three wind speed ratings that are indicated by a corresponding flag color. In order to check out a sailboat during Open Sailing, the skipper must be rated for that boat in the current wind speeds.
WIND SPEED AND RATING LEVELS
Light to Medium Wind: Green Flag – 1 knot - 12 knots
Heavy Wind: Red Flag – 13 knots -20 knots
No Sailing: Black Flag – 21+ knots
Check the Weather and Updates page for the current flag color and to check the live webcam of the Ensign fleet. If you have questions on the current conditions call the Boathouse (612-470-7245).
HOW TO EARN A WIND RATING
Take a class: Successfully complete one of our educational courses or private lessons. Our beginning classes grant a green flag rating for that particular boat. New members are not required to take our classes to be evaluated, but they are encouraged for newer sailors or those who have not sailed in years.
Get evaluated: Be evaluated to show your sailing skills for a particular boat at each wind speed level. Click on the Evaluation Form link below to see what is included in the evaluation. To schedule an evaluation, sailors need to complete a pre-test for the flag color they would like to be evaluated for. Sailors need to get 80% to schedule an evaluation. If unable to pass the written test we recommend a Private Lesson to work on the terms and skills that were missed.
Experienced Sailors: Before gaining access to the fleet, all new members will need to learn MSC-specific safety plans, member policies, and how we expect the fleet to be cared for and rigged. This is why each member must complete an evaluation or class, regardless of their sailing experience. Instructors will take into account the individual’s experience and adjust the evaluation as necessary. For example, an experienced dinghy sailor could get a red flag rating on a laser, the instructor can make the decision to also award a red flag rating on the C420.
Evaluations take about an hour and can be scheduled for weekdays or weekends between Noon-5pm. 24-hour advance notice is preferred, however, if additional dockmasters are available evaluations may be scheduled on the same day.
If you need help remembering how to rig our boats, check out our rigging demonstration videos.
During open sailing, members have access to the boat and wind conditions for which they are rated. A flag will be hung outside the boathouse showing the current flag conditions. Members are encouraged to check the Weather and Updates page or call the Boathouse (612-822-8328) to check the current flag color and sailboat availability before coming down.