Sailing may seem like a seasonal sport, but there are quite a few places around the country that offer it year round. But the best part, some places offer it for free!

Every Sunday afternoon, The Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle offers free boat rides, rain or shine. Visitors can see the crews in action before setting sail in these classic wooden boats.

Houston’s Port Authority offers 90-minute cruises of the Houston Ship Channel onboard the M/V Sam Houston. Advance reservations are required, but the tour is entirely free.

Ever heard of Dragon Boat racing? It’s a paddling sport that originated in Asia, and there are teams all over the country.

In San Francisco, the Bay Area Dragon Boat crew offers free lessons every Saturday morning. They provide the gear, so all you have to do is show up.

And then there’s one of the best local experiences in New York City: The Downtown Boathouse. The Boathouse offers free kayaking lessons in the harbor through the fall. The only requirement? You have to know how to swim.

If you’re a boating enthusiast traveling to a new city, check out local teams and boathouses. You might be surprised by what’s out there.

Check out our Water Sports & Adventure section for more hints.