Scott Paul | Modern Sailing

Scott Paul

Instructor

Scott first discovered his love for the water as a child, boating and waterskiing on the lakes of Minnesota. As an adult, he continued to nurture this passion by sailing and boating on the lakes of Colorado and Wyoming with his family. In 2000, while living in the UK and working for the tech company HP, he decided to take up yacht sailing after hearing about his colleagues’ “on-the-water” adventures. Scott attended classes on blustery Tuesday nights and earned his initial RYA sailing credentials through practical instruction on the waters of the famous Solent, as well as Southampton and Portsmouth Harbors.

Scott quickly embraced bareboating, embarking on his first trip to the British Virgin Islands with more experienced sailing friends. It was here that he truly began to live his dream of exploring remote islands, secluded beaches, and charming restaurants under the power of the wind, the sea, and the trusty Iron Genny. Since then, he has chartered sailing yachts and catamarans across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific, and the Americas.

In 2017, seeking a transition from the corporate world, Scott decided to pursue his captain’s license. He completed various passages, including trips from Havana to Miami, Belize to the Florida Keys, and Fiji to Vanuatu. He currently holds a USCG 50-ton Master Near Coastal Auxiliary Sail credential.

Scott first sailed on San Francisco Bay in 2014, leaving from South Beach Harbor for long tacks to the Golden Gate Bridge, and enjoying “recreational” Friday night beer-can racing hosted by the local yacht club. He returned to the Bay in 2021 to work towards his ASA Instructor credentials at Modern Sailing. Since then, he has logged over 160 days on the Bay, which he considers invaluable in honing his seamanship and sailing skills.

Now, Scott splits his time between San Francisco, Denver, St. Thomas, and other destinations with his partner. When he’s not on the water, he enjoys snow skiing, cycling, backpacking, and exploring new cultures. With a deep passion for adventure and travel, Scott has visited over 70 countries and is always eager to embark on new sailing journeys. Whether on a charter or as an ASA instructor, Scott brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a genuine love for the water to every voyage, helping students and friends along the way.

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  • Esther C

    I took ASA 101 with them recently. They have the best customer service I've ever seen! I mistyped my address when I signed up online so didn't receive the textbook. I called and the lady immediately sent me another copy! Everyone at the club is super friendly.

  • Ray Arceneaux

    The vessel was clean and in fine condition - very nice boat for training, well-equipped.

  • Trudy Flores

    Captain Jeff Cathers is really cool. I had such a great time on the Farallones Day Trip. It was actually my very best day of 2020. Thank you so much for coordinating the trip.

  • Andrew Goble, San Francisco

    It has been wonderful sailing with MSC over the years. Please extend my thanks to the owners, management, and staff for unrequited professionalism and high standards in a charter fleet. I have sailed with several in my years and none nearly hold a candle to the quality of business and staff at Modern Sailing.

  • David Dolenc, Member

    I love sailing in the San Francisco Bay and greatly appreciate everything that MSC has to offer, the classes, clinics, club sails, racing and charters. I enjoy our supportive sailing community and use every opportunity to spend time on the water. After obtaining the certifications from MSC I did my first charter in Croatia in 2022 with my family. It was amazing and we’re looking forward to returning soon!

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Modern Sailing School & Club

Sausalito Location
2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

Berkeley Location
1 Spinnaker Way, Berkeley
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

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