Sonset Sailing School & Charters

About This Business

Sonset Sailing School & Charters, led by Captain John C. Diel, is a premier sailing institution dedicated to providing top-notch sailing qualifications, charters, and deliveries. With over 49 years of sailing experience and more than 110,000 miles of sailing under his belt, Captain Diel brings unparalleled expertise to the table. As a certified ASA instructor with a wide range of certifications, including NMEA 2000 Trainer and Raymarine trained technician, he offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes ASA 101, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 114, 117, and 118. His extensive experience in captain deliveries, teaching, and charters at Charleston Sailing School from 2016 to 2019 has equipped him with the skills to provide exceptional sailing experiences. Currently, Captain Diel owns and operates Sonset Sailing School in both Michigan and Florida, offering a unique blend of sailing instruction and charter services. His fleet includes a Catalina 22' and a Catalina 30', and he has previously owned several other yachts, including a Watkins 27' and a Catalina 36'. With his degree in Electronic Engineering Technology and an MBA, Captain Diel is not only an accomplished sailor but also a skilled technician. His USCG Captain's license and ISAF sailor ID are testaments to his professionalism and dedication to the sport. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting out, Sonset Sailing School & Charters is the perfect choice for anyone looking to improve their sailing skills or simply enjoy the thrill of sailing on the Great Lakes or open ocean. With Captain Diel at the helm, you can be assured of a safe, enjoyable, and informative sailing experience. As a seasoned sailor with over 50,000 Great Lake miles and 60,000 open ocean miles, Captain Diel has a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of sailing in different environments. His expertise in sailing qualifications, combined with his experience in teaching and chartering, makes him an ideal instructor for sailors of all levels. At Sonset Sailing School & Charters, Captain Diel is committed to providing personalized attention and instruction to each student, ensuring that they receive the best possible sailing education. With his extensive experience and expertise, Captain Diel is well-equipped to help sailors achieve their goals, whether it's to improve their sailing skills, gain confidence on the water, or simply enjoy the thrill of sailing. In addition to his sailing qualifications, Captain Diel is also a skilled technician, with a degree in Electronic Engineering Technology and experience as a Raymarine trained technician. This unique combination of sailing and technical expertise makes him an invaluable resource for sailors looking to improve their skills or troubleshoot issues with their vessels. At Sonset Sailing School & Charters, Captain Diel is dedicated to providing exceptional sailing experiences, instruction, and charter services to sailors of all levels. With his unparalleled expertise, extensive experience, and commitment to personalized instruction, Sonset Sailing School & Charters is the perfect choice for anyone looking to improve their sailing skills or simply enjoy the thrill of sailing.