For each class, with the exception of the Soling, eleven races were scheduled from 22 July to 2 August 1996 off the coast of Savannah at the Wassaw Sound (an area of the Atlantic Ocean).

An exception was made for the Olympic yachting events, which customarily must be staged on the open sea.

On account of this principle, the city of Savannah was chosen for the organization of the sailing events.

Spectators were given the opportunity to board boats that will sail out to the courses to provide a close look at the competition.

The sailing events were held off the coast of Savannah at the Wassaw Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.