SML Sailing was formed in 2006 to provide US Sailing certified instruction for beginning sailors and coaching for experienced sailors looking to improve their skills, based on Smith Mountain Lake off Gills Creek, about 45 minutes southeast of Roanoke, Virginia. Led by Captain Pete Phillip, the business combines a full sailing school with half-day charter options for those who’d rather relax and enjoy the ride.

Sailing courses range from basic boat handling and sail trim for individuals to racing and spinnaker maneuvers for a full crew. Novice courses give students a solid understanding of sailing principles alongside plenty of hands-on, on-the-water experience sailing the J/24, while more advanced sailors can take out the Laser sailboats or the Tanzer 16 solo. Classes are scheduled by appointment and run five hours, with a consistent focus on safety, good seamanship, and having fun.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Smith Mountain Lake Sailing Charters invites guests to spend a half-day charter with Captain Pete, accommodating groups of up to four sailors. Guests can simply relax and enjoy the ride or get hands-on, helping trim sail and steer the boat, giving a genuine taste of what it’s like to sail Smith Mountain Lake. Charters are available aboard either the J/24 “Rascal” or the O’Day 35 “Joie de Vivre.”

For anyone near Roanoke looking to learn to sail or enjoy a relaxed half-day sailing charter on Smith Mountain Lake, SML Sailing School and Charters offers both structured instruction and laid-back charter options under Captain Pete’s personal guidance.