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Sailing School

Learn to sail with sailtime, learn from the experts.

• SailTime University

SailTime has the largest network of professional sailing schools in the world. With 30 schools certifying students to the American Sailing Association (ASA), and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) standards, we take the best techniques and materials from each school and share them with you.

World-Class Courses

Access to knowledge from around the world.

And once you earn your certification, the next step is to just go sailing! Much like learning a new language, you will need real-world experience to become proficient. SailTime Membership is the perfect way for new sailors to take the helm.

LEARN LOCALLY

Book a sailing class today.

The following locations offer online scheduling of their sailing courses. Choose your preferred location and book your certified sailing course today.

Alabama Sailing School

Anacortes Sailing School

Annapolis Sailing Instruction

Boston Sailing School

Chicago Sailing School

Detroit Sailing School

Door County Sailing School

Houston Sailing School

Jersey Shore Sailing Instruction

Los Angeles Ventura Sailing School

Asa & rsa experts, world-class training.

All US based SailTime instructors are licensed US Coast Guard captains and ASA-certified instructors. They go through a rigorous training and testing process to reach that level and are further vetted as great teachers. We only hire the best. Our schools and instructors are routinely recognized as “School of the Year” and “Instructor of the Year” by the American Sailing Association.

Why Certify?

Certifications.

Our members and students are busy people who want to get the most out of their time on the water, so our smaller class sizes facilitate a more productive learning environment. You will get plenty of time at the helm, cranking the winches, and getting your questions answered. With an emphasis on seamanship, boat systems, and cruising, you will soon be ready to head out on your own!

Success Stories

Sailtime sailing school.

At a SailTime sailing school, you can be assured that you will be learning on the highest quality yachts available. Safe, clean, and comfortable, your experience on the water will be an enjoyable one.

In addition, you’ll be learning to use the latest electronics and safety equipment on our modern Hunter and Beneteau sailboats.

Create Lasting Memories

You pay the membership fee, reserve your time online, and head to the boat to sail with your crew. When you’re finished for the day, you button it up for the next member, step off, and walk away planning your next trip.

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4,000+ alumni sailing the world, outstanding instructors, outstanding reviews, official asa certified facility, official asa sailing school for dream yachts, as featured in.

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We’ve successfully taught more than 4000 students over the years and can help you avoid common mistakes.

Here are 5 Top Tips to help you confidently embark on your sailing journey.

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• Recreational
• Personal Watercraft Operator

Whether you are a novice sailor just out to have fun on the water or want to work in the superyacht industry, IYT can help you do it better and safer. IYT is the most internationally accredited global leader and trusted standard of excellence in yacht training, maritime certification, safety, knowledge and sailing adventures.

The company certifies more boating courses with more government approvals through more schools, in more countries and in more languages than any other boating organisation in the world. IYT has achieved the highest level of internationally recognised and sanctioned best practices (ISO 9001:2008) certification through BSI, British Standards Institute.

Recreational Courses

Superyacht Courses

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• Sail cruising courses

Our practical and theory courses will take you from complete beginner to capable skipper and beyond

Stepping into the world of sailing for the first time is exciting and exhilarating. The courses in the RYA Yachtmaster training scheme will help you learn to sail and build confidence, become a useful crew member and even learn how to skipper a sailing yacht and manage it’s crew. 

Most courses can be taken either on your own or with friends and family, including children provided they meet our minimum age recommendations. There are also flexible options allowing you to do the course in one go or split over several days or weekends. 

Our sail cruising courses can also help you progress to the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Certificates of Competence  which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide and can be commercially endorsed for professional skippers and crew. 

So whether you’re new to boat ownership, want to charter a yacht on holiday, or to venture further offshore – there’s an RYA course for every level. 

Our practical on-the-water courses build confidence, teaching you everything from basic terminology and safety tips to how to skipper a yacht and manage its crew. You can enter at any level, provided you have the correct level of experience. 

Cruising Level 1 - An entry level course focusing on the principles of sailing a yacht. Can be run in conjunction with the Basic Skills course.

A short introduction to sailing for complete beginners.

Cruising Level 2 - Build on the skills gained during Start Sailing, Competent Crew or Day Skipper, focusing on sailing techniques as both crew and helm.

A hands-on course for anyone interested in becoming a useful crew member.

A course for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience and basic navigation and sailing skills.

Advanced skippering techniques for those with considerable knowledge of sailing and navigation, wanting to undertake coastal passages by day and night.

Our navigation and other specialist short courses complement the sail cruising practical courses and will take your knowledge and confidence to the next level.

A basic introduction to navigation for new skippers, crew or anyone interested in getting out on the water.

A more comprehensive course recommended for inexperienced skippers and anyone thinking of doing the Day Skipper practical course.

Take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore practical exams.

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage planning, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids.

Get qualified to use a handheld or fixed marine VHF radio with our course and exam.

From first aid to diesel engine, there are a number of related classroom and online courses you may find useful as you develop your knowledge.

• Certificates of Competence
• RYA Yachtmaster

An RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence is the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence.

You are capable of coastal passages

You are competent to undertake passages up to 150 miles offshore

You have the knowledge and experience to sail worldwide

With more than 100 different titles to choose from, there’s an RYA book, eBook or audiobook for every age, interest and ability. Visit our webshop for course books and a range of supporting titles.

Sailing is great fun for all ages and there are plenty of opportunities for young people to get involved. Check our course descriptions for minimum age recommendations.

If you want to cruise outside of the UK you are likely to need an ICC. RYA course completion certificates can be used as evidence of your competence.

Find out more about commercial endorsements, professional qualifications and what it takes to work on the water.

Fast Track® Sail and Power Courses

America’s #1 sailing school and powerboat cruising school.

Offshore Sailing School is the longest running and most respected sailing and boating education company in the United States. Founded in 1964 by Steve Colgate who met, married, and hired one of his students a few years later, the company thrives under the leadership of  Steve and Doris Colgate .

Steve is an Olympian, America’s Cup competitor and 2015 National Sailing Hall of Fame inductee. Doris founded the National Women’s Sailing Association, is an avid racing and cruising sailor, and was inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2022 for her dedication to enhancing the lives of women through sailing. More than 160,000 adults and their families have chosen Offshore Sailing School to  learn to sail ,  learn to cruise  on big sailboats, learn to drive and  manage big power yachts , and  learn sailboat racing.

Become a Certified, Confident Sailor

Fast Track® Sail and Power Courses  – an Offshore Sailing School exclusive – provide accelerated sailing lessons and powerboat education packages guaranteed to fast-track your sailing and boating skills on 26′ to 50′ sailboats, catamarans or monohull yachts. You can also tailor your sailing education with our  Individual Sailing Courses  shown below. Protect your investment with Travel Insurance. View coverage options  here . Here are all the courses we currently offer, with corresponding certification levels.

• Private Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Monohull Cruising
• Learn to Sail Certification Courses
• Fast Track to Sailing
• Family Learn to Sail Programs
• Sailing Lessons and Sailing Rides
• Small Sailboat Cruising Course
• Online Learn to Sail Course
• Docking Refresher Course on a Catamaran or Monohull
• Live Aboard Cruising Courses
• Bareboat Charter Courses
• Catamaran Cruising Courses
• Catamaran Endorsement & Refresher
• Boat Handling & Docking
• Women-Only Sailing Programs
• Navigation Courses
• Performance Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Sailboat Racing Courses
• Performance Racing Clinics
• Coastal Passage Making Courses
• Offshore Passage Making Courses
• Celestial Navigation Courses
• Powerboat Courses
• Sailing Certifications
• Top 10 Tips for Learning How to Sail
• Safety and Comfort Aboard
• Sails & Sail Trim
• Steering and Maneuvering
• Handling Spinnakers
• Engine Maintenance
• How to Become a Sailing Instructor
• How to Choose a Sailing School
• Yacht Lease Management Opportunities

Fast Track® Sail & Power Courses

Fast track® to catamaran cruising.

Go from couch to the captain’s chair with two days learning to sail on a Colgate 26, then 6 days of comprehensive big boat instruction on one of our impressive 40′-45′ cruising catamarans. 101/103/104/114

Fast Track® to Cruising

Dive into sailboat cruising on monohulls with two days learning on a Colgate 26, then board a 44′-50’ monohull for 6 days of exciting big boat instruction. Perfect course for cruising on your boat or a chartered yacht. 101/103/104

Fast Track® to Boat Handling & Docking

A comprehensive, specialized 4-day course for seasoned sailors, designed to refine your sailing proficiency, with emphasis on boat handling abilities, docking competence, and maneuvering skills on larger monohull and catamaran yachts. 111

Fast Track® to Power Cruising

Learn to skipper a big powercat, manage its electronics and systems; dock, moor, and anchor in various wind conditions. In 6 days, gain skills and confidence to charter on your own with family and friends. No prior experience required. 109

Fast Track® to Offshore Passage Making

Take a deep dive into long distance sailing with 5 days of celestial navigation, followed by 6 days of hands-on experience, gaining skills and confidence for offshore passage making and navigating without heavy reliance on electronics. 107/108

Fast Track® to Advanced Cruising

Start with the in-depth Online Coastal Navigation course, then step aboard for 6 days of intensive training covering night operations, advanced navigation, and coastal passage making on a catamaran or monohull. 105/106

Fast Track® to Performance Sailing

In just five days, gain a solid foundation in sailing with focus on learning the basics, then mastering performance techniques, essential for excelling in local club races and enhancing your boat handling skills as skipper and crew. 101/102

Individual Sailing Course Options

Celestial navigation.

A five-day shore based course with intensive use of sextants, in preparation for offshore Passage Making or setting off on your own. Includes extensive use of sextants and tables to calculate your position at sea. 107

Offshore Passage Making

Adventure into long distance cruising in an intensive six-day course, focusing on night sailing out of sight of land, standing watches, voyage planning and provisioning, celestial and electronic navigation. 108

Learn to Sail

Start your sailing lifestyle with an exciting, comprehensive three-day course, covering all the fundamentals of sailing on a fun, safe, sophisticated, and easy to sail Colgate 26 daysailer. No prerequisites. 101

Basic & Bareboat Cruising

Transition from day sailing to confident cruiser in this six-day combo course and go from big boat basic cruising skills to ready-to-skipper and charter a cruising catamaran or monohull yacht. 103/104 or 103/104/114/p>

Advanced Cruising

Take the helm with our Advanced Cruising course: a perfect blend of practical training and advanced navigation. Join us for a hands-on experience to refine your skills and prepare you for your next sailing adventure. 106

Online Courses

Coastal navigation.

Comprehensive, self-paced online course tailored to advance navigation skills in preparation for the Advanced Cruising Course. Focus is on chart navigation and includes all necessary tools and materials for a complete learning experience. 105

Learn to Sail Online

Jump-start your sailing education with this fascinating to way to learn the basics of sailing. A great tool for beginners and “rusty” sailors, interactive online sailing lessons compliment what’s covered in Offshore Sailing School’s Learn to Sail 101 course.

Historical Snapshot of Offshore Sailing School and Its Founders

OFFSHORE High  is a biography of Steve & Doris  Colgate, written by acclaimed author and former Executive Editor of Cruising World magazine, Herb McCormick. Published in October 2021 this 288 page book includes over 170 photos from decades of Grand Prix yacht racing, building Offshore Sailing School from scratch to become America’s #1 Sailing School®, and an epic love story.  Order here.

GET IN TOUCH

Call us today.

888-454-7015       or    239-454-1700

Ask our experts about training, group packages, vacations, and more!

The Colgate 26 is used in all Learn to Sail, Performance Sailing and Racing courses. Designed by Steve Colgate and naval architect Jim Taylor, the Colgate 26 is a popular high performance keelboat, used to train plebes and cadets at the U.S. Naval and Coast Guard Academies, great for club racing and daysailing. Read more…

Newsletter Signup

The Offshore Sailing School newsletter is emailed weekly to anyone interested in learning more about sailing and boating. It is packed with sailing and boating news, how-to tips, upcoming programs, contests and special deals.

CONTACT INFO

Toll-free US and Canada: 888.454.7015 Local and International: 239-454-1700

6338 Presidential Court, #201 Fort Myers, Florida 33919

[email protected]

© 2024 Offshore Sailing School - Official Site. OffshoreSailing.com is managed by Offshore Sailing School. Please report any issues to Offshore Sailing School.

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Global 21 st century Sailing education and International Certification

Basic to advanced practical sailing training schools north america and worldwide, sailing vacation skipper training bareboat sailing certifications and licenses accepted by all yacht charter companies, us coast guard approved on-the-water sailing training schools with multimedia online interactive theory courses, the most modern up to date international sailing education program approved by the us coast guard under edu-3.

• Sailing Courses

Over a dozen multimedia online and mobile device sailing courses for complete beginners through advanced training. All surpassing international standards.

• Sailing Schools

A global network of sailing schools integrating your theory learned online with practical on the water teachings.

Alex the Sailing AI

Alex is your all-knowing sailing assistant, available anytime . FREE with all NauticEd Courses.

Give Alex a try. Click any question below or ask Alex anything!

How do sails create lift?

What are the different sail types?

How do you tack a sailboat?

Explain Gybing

Why is a keel so heavy?

How do I read nautical charts?

How does wind affect sailing?

What is a tiller extension?

What are the common sailing knots?

How do I anchor a sailboat?

What is a spinnaker used for?

How do I trim the sails ?

What are the sailing safety precautions?

How to sail a dinghy sailboat?

How to navigate using landmarks?

Explain leeward and windward sides.

How to reef sails safely?

What is a mooring ball?

How to handle a capsize?

What is standing rigging?

Explain the term "beam reach".

How to steer a sailboat?

What is a boom vang?

How to calculate drift and leeway?

Explain the role of a burgee.

How to heave to in sailing?

What is a marine sextant?

How to handle a jib sheet?

What is a fairlead block?

Explain the term "head up".

How to avoid a collision?

What is a spinnaker pole?

How to read wind shifts?

What is a sea breeze?

How to handle a halyard?

Explain the concept of "draft".

How to anchor in a storm?

What is a sea anchor?

How to reef a mainsail quickly?

Virtual Reality Training

Learn skills from basic sailing to advanced docking and Nav rules. Accelerate your training with cutting-edge VR tech.

Be amazed with VR   

Courses by rank or specialized skill courses

Introduction to sailing, skipper small keelboat rank, skipper large keelboat rank, bareboat charter master rank, captain rank, show me the ropes - i'm just getting started.

Actually, there are four ropes on a boat: the bell rope, the bucket rope, the life ring rope, and the bolt rope. Just saying, because there are a lot of crusty ol’ sailors that say there are no ropes on a boat. Anyway …

To become a confident and competent sailor, you need theoretical knowledge and practical experience.  Makes sense, right? 

While NauticEd teaches all courses to international sailing standards, we are nationally approved by the United States Coast Guard and our SLC sailing license is accepted internationally including all countries in the Mediterranean. Thus, NauticEd guides you through it all: online multimedia courses and testing, professional practical training schools, and a free electronic logbook that tracks your on-the-water experience.  All the while, our software simultaneously and automatically builds you a globally accepted sailing resume.  It’s the 21st century way of becoming a sailor!

We recommend that you start with Introduction to Sailing which is just $27. However, if you want to see how we roll first before your investment, take our fun FREE Basic Sail Trim course . In this course, you’ll learn about the wind and its forces on the sails through a series of interactive animations. It's a wee bit more advanced than totally basic, but you'll get to see how awesome our course material is. After we have built your confidence in yourself and us, we have three easy choices to continue.

• Introduction to Sailing : This course is for those who are just getting started and includes for free both the Basic Sail Trim course and the Navigation Rules Course. It's a great way to get started
• Skipper Small Keelboat :  This course, when combined with on-the-water training is approved as meeting the American National Standard for sailing training and assessment. It is for those who want to competently skipper their own smaller keelboat up to about 25 feet (8m); or
• Skipper Bundle (Skipper course and Maneuvering Under Power course):  These courses build further on the American National Standard and are for those starting out on a bigger boat 26 feet to 60 feet (8m to 20m).

When you complete the courses and the requisite amount of logged on-the-water experience, you will receive the associated certificate Rank. Read on ...

For practical on-the-water experience, we strongly encourage you to gain professional instruction from one of our affiliated sailing training schools who we recognize as meeting the American National Standards. Our instructors are highly qualified and socially rated by previous students; this information is viewable on the school's NauticEd page. This allows you to be confident that you are receiving the best instruction and direction as you begin your sailing journey. Gaining more experience can be as simple as sailing with friends, with the local yacht club, a shared boat club, a paid sharing arrangement with a friend's boat, or on your own boat.

As you gain confidence and competence at one level, we encourage you to go back to the sailing school and gain further practical knowledge to raise to the next level. You enter all this experience (and any past experiences) into your FREE electronic Logbook . Plus, your instructors digitally sign your logbook at your competence levels. It's the world's most technologically advanced and simply structured sailing education program.

Our proprietary algorithm analyzes the courses you have passed and your practical sailing experience and then issues Rank and Level based on your accomplishments. Simultaneously, our badge program directs and guides you to perform micro tasks which educate you about proper boating habits and knowledge like checking your EPIRB or side-stay turnbuckles. And don’t worry, by the time you finish our courses you’ll be eating sailing terms for breakfast.

At every step of the way, we are in the background building your globally recognized sailing resume and guiding you as to what to do next.

There is so much more to NauticEd that you will learn about on your guided journey to becoming a confident and competent sailor . The best thing for now however, is that you can start for FREE with 2 free sailing courses and a FREE sailing logbook. Just sign up. It is that easy.

Click here to get started with the FREE Basic Sail Trim Course

Or if you're ready to jump in feet first, click here to review the Introduction to Sailing course

Click here to view our specialized Sailing Courses

Be a better local sailor

To us, you’re already the smartest sailor out there. Too many times we all hear “I got it, you don’t need to teach me anything”. Yet these are the folks shown in the YouTube video collages of greatest boating bungles. The smartest sailor is the one who says “You can never be guilty of learning too much”.

While NauticEd teaches all courses to international sailing standards, we are nationally approved by the United States Coast Guard and our SLC sailing license is accepted internationally including all countries in the Mediterranean. Thus, Nauticed guides you through it all: online multimedia courses and testing, professional practical training schools, and a free electronic logbook that tracks your on-the-water experience.  All the while, our software simultaneously and automatically builds you a globally accepted sailing resume.  It’s the 21st century way of becoming a sailor!

For you, we have some great multimedia courses that are going to up your game, keep you off YouTube, and make your crew follow your leadership because you know what you’re doing with certainty and confidence.

• Skipper courses: we offer a Skipper Small Keelboat course for boats up to 25 ft (8m) or a Skipper Course for larger boats. These courses are similar in depth and knowledge but specifically cover the differences in mastering either size of boat.
• Maneuvering Under Power course: This is our most popular course and for good reason. No further explanation is required other than to ask: Can you confidently back a large boat around in a marina in a 30 knot crosswind?
• Coastal Navigation, Electronic Navigation, and Anchoring courses: For when you want to start venturing away from home base.

But as you know, just passing an online course is not going to make you a competent sailor. You must have practical experience as well. This is why we provide you with a FREE electronic logbook into which you enter past and present practical on-the-water experience. Entries can be as simple as days sailing with friends, the local yacht club, a shared boat club, on your own boat, or you can formalize it with any of our affiliated professional schools. Read on ...

As you continue to grow your theoretical knowledge and practical on-the-water experience, NauticEd is keeping track for you. Every time you pass a course, make an entry into your electronic logbook or perform a badge task, our algorithm automatically calculates and builds your sailing resume for you .  So while we issue Sailing Certifications that are globally accepted, we focus more on ensuring you become worthy of having the helm in your hands. Thus the resume!

Get started now with either the Skipper Small Keelboat Course or the Skipper Bundle of courses (Skipper course and Maneuvering Under Power course) for sailboats larger than 25 feet (7.6 m) and start logging your previous on-the-water sailing experience into your FREE online logbook .

Skipper Small Keelboat Rank requires the Skipper Small Keelboat course . When this course in combined with NauticEd practical training, you are recognized as having met the American National Standards for sailing training . No other American sailing training association or body can boast as such.

The Skipper Rank is for larger boats (larger than 25 ft – 7.6 m). It builds further beyond the American National Standards and requires: Skipper bundle of courses which consists of:

• Skipper Course
• Maneuvering Under Power Course

Skipper a yacht on a sailing vacation

We always say there is nothing better than taking a sailing vacation, and if you can think of something better, well … you can do it on a sailing vacation anyway.

To become a confident and competent Bareboat Charter Master, you need theoretical knowledge and practical experience.  Makes sense, right? 

But don’t fall into the “certification” trap. In order to safely charter a ½ million dollar boat and guide friends and family through ocean waters, a shiny bareboat charter certification sticker earned in a two-weekend cram will never suffice. We have interviewed dozens of the world’s top yacht charter companies and they all have one requirement in common in order to let you charter one of their boats: it is a sailing RESUME demonstrating you are truely worthy to sail. It must display sufficient theoretical knowledge as well as an acceptable amount of practical experience.

NauticEd guides you through becoming properly licensed and recognized for bareboat chartering competence: online multimedia courses and testing, professional practical training schools, and a free electronic logbook that tracks your on-the-water experience.  All the while, our software simultaneously and automatically builds you a globally accepted sailing resume.  It’s the 21st century way of becoming a sailor!

First, we start you out with our Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of multimedia interactive courses and tests. They contain all the theoretical knowledge you need to know including: coastal and electronic navigation, anchoring, maneuvering a large sailboat in a marina, leadership skills, living aboard, dinghy skills and much more.

Then you enter your past and present practical on-the-water experience into your FREE electronic logbook. Entries can be as simple as days sailing with friends, the local yacht club, a shared boat club, on your own boat, and/or if you need more formalized training or a refresher, you can learn with any of our affiliated professional practical training schools.

All the while, NauticEd is keeping track for you. Every time you pass a course, make an entry into your electronic logbook or perform a badge task, our algorithm automatically calculates and builds your international accepted sailing resume demonstrating your Rank of Bareboat Charter Master.  This is what all yacht charter companies require. Read on ...

The Bareboat Charter Master Rank requires the Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of courses:

• Maneuvering Under Power
• Bareboat Chartering
• Coastal Navigation
• Electronic Navigation

You can access these courses individually or as one bundle.

To gain the NauticEd SLC international sailing license valid for European waters, you must complete the Bareboat Charter Master Rank and do a 1 day assessment of your skills. But don't mistake the simplicity of the process for ease of good knowledge and proper skills. The SLC has high standards, standards that keep people off youtube's best sailing bungles videos and keep their friends and family safe on the water.

So, here is a big bold audacious challenge for you: achieve your internationally accepted NauticEd Bareboat Charter Master Rank and an SLC or ICC, then go skipper the most amazing sailing vacation of your life.

Get started with the Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of Courses here

Visit the SLC international sailing license page here

The deep blue and beyond

Religious or not, they say that you will meet God on the ocean at some time. The ocean demands that you be prepared and able to handle what it will throw at you. It has a way of teaching you what you don’t know.

That said, maximum preparedness is the key. But you already know that; that is why you are here now. You know that to be safe, you need theoretical knowledge and significant practical experience. But how much knowledge and how much experience?

NauticEd guides you through it all: online multimedia courses and testing, professional practical training schools both near shore and offshore, a free electronic logbook that tracks your on-the-water experience, and badges that teach you proper and safe boating behavior.  All the while, our software simultaneously and automatically builds you a globally accepted sailing resume and sailing license (the SLC) .  It’s the 21st century way of becoming a sailor!

We recommend you start out with the Captain’s bundle of online multimedia courses. These ready you for the deep blue and beyond: understanding global weather systems, storm tactics, and safety at sea knowledge such as how to ditch into a life raft, what should already be stored in your ditch bag, global communication systems, what to do if you lose your rudder or hit a container, and how to repair shredded sails. We also focus on life aboard and simple tips and tricks to make life easier. If you are serious about sailing , then this is the bundle of courses for you.

But as you know, just passing an online course is not going to make you a competent blue water sailor. You must have practical experience as well. This is why we provide you with a FREE electronic logbook into which you enter past and present practical on-the-water experience. Entries can be as simple as days sailing with friends, the local yacht club, a shared boat club, on your own boat. We also introduce you to specialized training schools that focus on offshore training . You’ll have an opportunity to join their passages and see for yourself the wonder and, truth-be-told, sometimes hardship of an ocean passage. Read on ...

The Captain Rank requires the Captain Bundle of courses:

• Storm Tactics
• Global Weather Systems
• Advanced Sail Trim
• Safety at Sea

Access individually or as one bundle .

Start now by signing up for the NauticEd Captain’s Bundle of Courses and begin filling out your FREE NauticEd practical logbook.

View the Captain Bundle of Courses here

Sea talk testimonials

I now have 2 bareboat catamaran charters in the Grenadines under my belt. From my knowledge gained with NauticEd, I encountered no issues or difficulties and both charter companies were completely satisfied with my NauticEd resume. Thanks for making this happen for me and my family. Ted D , Student

Trusted by the world's leading sailing companies

How Nauticed works

Why Learn the Theory?

Online, at home, in your own time multimedia theory learning integrates perfectly with on-the-water practical teaching to make you a confident and competent sailor.

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”  Socrates

To be a confident and competent sailor, you have to have theory knowledge. Even if you are an experienced sailor, there is always more to learn. Theory covers broad topics like the rules of the nautical road, understanding tides, and coastal navigation as well as minute tips and tricks.

For example: How do you lift a heavy man back on board? Should you let out the main sheet or the traveler, why? Can you convert true to magnetic in an instant? What is the best anchor to use for a rock bottom? What is a cardinal mark? What does an isolated danger mark look like?

A solid theoretical sailing education will enable you to apply this knowledge to your on the water experiences.

Why online?  Welcome to the 21st Century for Sailing Education! NauticEd offers online multimedia theory courses that integrate perfectly with on-the-water practical training and experience.

• Easy & Immediate Access:  Learn at your own pace, at home, on an airplane, in a coffee shop or waiting in the doctor’s office. Mobile or laptop.  With in seconds of signing up, you are learning.
• Instant Results & Resume:  Online, real-time grading of tests and other tools allow you to evaluate your learning. Completed courses show instantly on your resume.
• Retention:  Multimedia format with interactive animations, videos, and colorful graphics hold your attention and aid retention.
• Social Learning Environment:  With NauticEd’s nano forums, students can collaborate with fellow students and instructors.
• Better Use of On-The-Water Training: Maximize your practical training time by showing up already knowledgeable and tested.

Sailing Resume vs Sailing Certification

Ask any yacht charter company and they all will tell you that they require a complete sailing resume; not a certification . NauticEd helps build and store your sailing resume in the cloud - for FREE.

Think about a job application.  A person with solid educational credentials as well as real world experience gets the best job.  Same with sailing.  Sailing theory plus hands on experience makes the best sailor. 

NauticEd’s proprietary software combines your theoretical sailing courses with your logged practical on-the-water experience and all your other sailing accomplishments and international licenses such as the SLC into a resume demonstrating your sea-worthiness. 

At certain milestones along the way, we’ll issue you a ‘certification”, but only after you have passed the theoretical courses and logged the requisite experience.  Your certification will list your rank and level:  Rank relates to the courses you have taken and Level corresponds to your practical experience.  But you can’t get one without the other.  That’s because education and experience go hand in hand. 

If you need a sailing license for European waters, our software will issue it instantly the moment you acheive all the practical and theory requirements.

Additionally, when you are assessed by an instructor according to American National Standards rubrics or International Standards rubrics, your Rank and Level becomes Verified. When your experience is affirmed by your CrewMates ™ your experience is Authenticated.

All this takes place in the background by our software. Your resume simply grows automatically as you sail and learn. And that’s why yacht charter companies worldwide LOVE our Resume/Certification program. And why countries who require a proper legal sailing license, accept the NauticEd SLC. You will LOVE what we do for you.

Sign up now , get two free courses and watch your resume grow – automatically.

Get a Free Sailor's Logbook

When you sign up for free, we give you a free sailor’s logbook. Why?

Whether you’re a new or experienced sailor, electronically logging your on-the-water experience is the best way to track your own growth and demonstrate your sea worthiness to yourself and to others.

This is why NauticEd provides you with a FREE electronic logbook into which you enter your past and present practical on-the-water experience. Entries can be as simple as a day sailing with friends, the local yacht club, a shared boat club, on your own boat, or you can formalize it with any of our affiliated professional schools. Our proprietary CrewMates ™ feature lets your regular crew members authenticate your logbook entries at the click of a button on your mobile device or computer. The more you sail, the more your logbook grows and the higher level you achieve within a Rank. And, with NauticEd’s automatic resume generating software, every time you make an entry into your logbook, it appears instantly on your sailing resume. Its all stored in the cloud accessible by you 24/7.

Welcome to the 21st century way of becoming a sailor. 

Sign up for FREE here NOW

Bareboat Charter Sailing License

Looking to bareboat charter a yacht on a sailing vacation? Need a license to qualify?  NauticEd has a plan and customized steps to ensure you succeed.

So here is the truth of the matter, you only need a Bareboat Charter License in Europe and the Seychelles. In every other location, you do not need a license or certification to sail a recreational vessel. Some states in the USA legally require residents to have a State Boater License Card, but that is it. So what then is all the hoohaa from certain sailing associations? Some people call them certification factories!

What is absolutely required of a skipper from every yacht charter company worldwide is a worthy resume.  Why?  Because some “license” or “certification” associations issue you a license/certification after a one or two weekend sailing course and a paper test. But, five or even ten days of sailing experience is simply not enough. These certifictions can not necessarily be trusted across the board. So yacht charter companies require an extensive resume demonstrating your sailing education, your practical logbook of experience as master of the vessel, and any achievements and competence sign-offs by practical sailing instructors (instructor sign-offs are recommended but not necessarily required).

So how does NauticEd help its students meet this need?

The NauticEd resume system and software simply and cleverly follows yacht charter requirements. Thus, when your resume reflects sufficient theory and practical experience to actually be competent in the eyes of yacht charter companies, the NauticEd software issues you a Bareboat Charter Master Rank.   Every yacht charter company in the world accepts this Rank because it demonstrates your real bareboat charter worthiness.

And if the country you are vacationing in requires an actual sailing license, then NauticEd can facilitate this. We partner with RYA schools worldwide to issue you an ICC (International Certificate of Competence (created by United Nations)) or we can issue you an SLC which requires, in addition to the Bareboat Charter Master Rank, a one day assessment of your practical skills and knowledge. Note: be aware of sailing associations claiming that their "IPC" is aka the ICC. It is just not true!

Simply stated, if you don't have a proper sailing resume (regardless of the certification/license issued to you) you will be hiring a skipper. And that is not a bad thing. A hired skipper can usually show you places you never would have found, tell stories, teach you some tricks, and keep you safe.

First, we start you out with our Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of multimedia interactive courses and tests. Then you enter your past and present practical on-the-water experience into your FREE electronic logbook. For the ICC or SLC license you must have a sailing skills assessment. If you pass, your instructor logs in and clicks to verify your competence and the license is issued automatically - instantly. All of this is stored automatically in your resume; in the cloud. When you are ready to go chartering, simply click a button and the charter company is sent your credentials.

Start with the Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of courses NOW

Check out the SLC international sailing license here

SLC & ICC International Sailing License

The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) and the Sailing License and Credentials (SLC) are internationally accepted licenses for skippers wanting to charter recreational yachts in European waters.

Gain the ICC or SLC through NauticEd

The ICC, issued under United Nations Resolution 40, created a universally agreed upon standard of competence for skippers of recreational boats.

Recently, the SLC has become recognized as a more readily accessible and acceptable license because more schools are able to adminsiter the practical sailing competence assessment - especially in North America.

Because the ICC was created by the United Nations, a country that has adopted Resolution 40 must approve and assign a company or association to issue an ICC License. The United Kingdom has adopted Resolution 40; it has approved the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) to issue the ICC license to sailors after a skills assessment.   But because neither the USA nor Canada have adopted Resolution 40, no USA or Canadian appointed company or association can issue a true ICC.  To solve this, NauticEd has teamed up with the Royal Yachting Association to help our students obtain the ICC through available RYA schools.

Additionally, NauticEd is able to issue the SLC which is equally accepted by those countries whose port authorites require a sailing license. Read on ...

To receive an ICC or an SLC, students must pass a one-day assessment that tests their international sailing knowledge as well as their on-the-water boating skills. The NauticEd Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of courses serves to gain enough theoretical knowledge to pass the theory portion of the assessment.  The practical on-the-water portion of the assessment requires demonstration of skills associated with bareboat chartering. The full skills list is downloadable for free under the student's curriculum tab when they sign-in to NauticEd. Significant past sailing experience is also required to be logged in the student's free online logbook. All this ensures that not only is the student legally licensed to charter a yacht, but also the student has a sufficient resume to be accepted by the charter company.

If you are going on a sailing vacation, contact us . Not only are we experts and agents for all the yacht charter companies, we can advise if you need a license and if your resume is adequate.

Learn more about the ICC and the SLC

Go to the SLC page

Set up a FREE account now. Get two free sailing courses and a free logbook and resume building tool

Complete Beginner?

“The expert in anything was once a beginner.” Helen Hays, the first lady of American Theater.

Are you new to sailing and don't know where to start?

In order to become a sailor, you need theoretical knowledge and on-the-water experience. But what courses do you need? And how do you gain experience?

If you are just starting your sailing journey, we recommend you start with our fun FREE online course – Basic Sail Trim .  It is an enjoyable course, full of animations that help you realize the romance of sailing. Then as you gain confidence in yourself, take one of our Skippering courses.  Additional courses are available as you progress on your sailing journey.  No matter your eventual sailing goal, NauticEd can provide you with the appropriate level of sailing education.

Ready to get on the water?  There are a multitude of options to gain practical experience without owning your own boat. First, NauticEd has professional sailing instructors worldwide through our affiliated sailing school program.  Beyond that, NauticEd recommends sailing clubs, yacht clubs, shared boat programs, shared friendship syndicates, friend’s boats, racing regattas, Caribbean and Mediterranean crewed charter trips, local meet-up groups and the like. Before you know it, you’ll have some serious water under your belt.

When you start with NauticEd, we will hold your hand and guide you with a realistic plan to achieve your sailing goals and dreams.  We’ll even stretch your imagination a little. Could you imagine yourself skippering a boat on a sailing vacation in the Caribbean? We can! Whatever your dream, NauticEd will be there helping you with your knowledge and experience.

So cast off the lines and sign-up for free.

Click here to sign-up and get started with Basic Sail Trim NOW .

Simple and Easy Access

Cross-Platform, Multimedia, Interactive, Real-Time, Mobile Friendly and More

All our courses are multimedia and mobile friendly and operate across platforms and browsers. You can also add to your logbook right from the dock as you step off your boat. When your instructor signs your logbook online, you are instantly notified of your success and upgrade. No need for paper resumes and shiny stickers, just give your private logbook code to yacht charter companies who can instantly see your seaworthiness on your cloud stored electronic resume.

We apply the highest technology systems to everything we do.

Welcome to the 21st century of Sailing Training.

Sign-up for free now to get started. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain!

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Crew Training Courses

We offer MCA and RYA courses in Antibes (France) and Palma (Spain), tailored to yacht crew at every stage of their yachting journey. Our comprehensive training encompasses all essential modules to support seafarers in achieving the highest standards of professionalism within the yachting industry.

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Home / boating / Sailing

"All of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea - whether it is to sail or to watch it - we are going back from whence we came." -John F. Kennedy, Newport, RI at dinner prior to America's Cup Races, September 1962

Courses are mixed gender, hands-on, Physical Education courses taught on RS Quest (Beginning & Intermediate Dinghy), Laser, and RS Vision (Advanced Dinghy) vessels.

• Each class meets a total of eight times at the dock (weather permitting).
• Students need to have taken and passed our Beginning and Intermediate Dinghy classes or equivalent to participate in keelboat classes.
• Good attendance is strongly recommended in order to achieve best results.
• Satisfactory completion allows you to move on to the next class and achieve higher levels in the Community Boating Center Sailing Club.
• Students learn the basics inside the protected Santa Cruz Harbor, then venture out to Monterey Bay for further practice.

Dinghy Sailing

Beginning dinghy.

No prior experience necessary! Beginning sailing uses RS Quest vessels, which can hold 2-3 students per boat.

Students Learn:

• Nomenclature
• Sailing theory
• Proper boat handling
• Basic sailing knots
• Rigging for strong vs. light-wind conditions
• Departing and returning to the dock
• Balancing the boat
• Tacking and Jibing
• Stopping and starting on the water
• Safe-boating practices
• Self-rescue techniques
• Rules of the road
• Wind and ocean conditions

Intermediate Dinghy

This course begins with a review of the skills that were covered in the Beginning Dinghy Sailing class.

After review, the intermediate class shifts towards further development and refinement of small-boat sailing techniques.

Satisfactory completion meets prerequisite for Beginning Keelboat and Advanced Dinghy Sailing classes.

• Right of Way 
• Detailed discussion of rules of the road
• Points of sail
• Sailing in stronger winds
• Improvement of boat handling skills
• Sail theory
• Powering up vs. depowering
• How and when to reef
• Backwards sailing
• Blind-folded sailing
• Introduction to racing

Advanced Dinghy

Advanced dinghy is an introduction to high-performance racing dinghies, with an emphasis on boat control and speed. 

Wetsuits are required!

• Rigging the Lasers and Visions
• Dry capsizes
• Boat handling
• Sail shape and adjusting controls
• Upwind vs. downwind sailing techniques
• How to effectively hike
• Establishing and maintaining a plane while sailing
• Racing techniques and rules
• Sailing with an asymmetrical spinnaker

Back to Boating Center

Keelboat Sailing

Beginning | Intermediate | Advanced

Beginning Keelboat

This is a great class for those students who wish to expand their knowledge of sailing.

• "Hands-on" rigging and docking practice;
• Sailing practice on the Monterey Bay;
• Sail trim, powering up vs. de-powering, sail theory;
• Person-overboard recovery techniques and drills;
• Boating safety, VHF usage, and rules of the road;
• Weather and ocean conditions.

Intermediate Keelboat

This is a great class for students who wish to be introduced to the exhilaration and intricacies of sailing with a spinnaker!

• Review of skills learned in Beginning Keelboat class;
• Introduction to spinnaker — packing, rigging, setting, crew management/positions, jibing, dousing and safety;
• Practice new skills at the dock first;
• Eventually set and fly spinnaker on the bay.

Advanced Keelboat

This is a class for those who want an introduction into cruising.

• Boat systems
• Back and fill
• Introduction to charts and navigation

Junior Sailing

Super Junior Basic Dinghy  |  Junior Basic Dinghy  |  Junior Intermediate Dinghy  |  Junior Advanced Dinghy

Super Junior Basic Dinghy Sailing

This class is geared towards our younger sailors with smaller class size, more games, and a slightly slower pace than the Basic Sailing Class.  Students in this age group will learn and practice:

• Boating safety and sportsmanship
• Launching & rigging the boat
• Basic knot tying
• Proper boat balance for skipper and crew
• Tacking and jibing
• Steering with a tiller extension
• "Right of Way" and "Rules of the Road"
• How to right a capsized boat

Junior Basic Dinghy Sailing

Students master the basics inside the protected Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor, then venture out onto the beautiful Monterey Bay for further practice, weather permitting. Students in this grouping will learn:

• Rigging for strong vs. light winds
• Tiller extension and main sheet hand exchange during a tack or jibe
• How to steer while under tow

Junior Intermediate Dinghy Sailing

This program begins with a review of the skills acquired in the Junior Basic Dinghy Sailing Class. After a review on the first day, the emphasis of this course shifts towards further development of boat-handling skills. Students in this group will learn:

• Review of basic dinghy sailing skills
• How to sail in stronger wind
• Improvement of boat handling, boat balance, sail adjustment, and steering
• Sail theory, sail trim, angle of heel, points of sail, powering up vs. depowering, and reefing
• Dinghy sailing drills and racing
• Basics of US Sailing racing rules and vocabulary

Junior Advanced Dinghy Sailing

This course begins with a review of the skills acquired in the Junior Intermediate Dinghy Sailing Class. After a review, the class focuses on better boat handling skills and racing. Students in this group will learn and practice:

• Review of intermediate dinghy sailing
• How to rig RS Visions and Lasers
• Emphasis on sailing drills and games
• Mark rounding and racing
• Racing rules

How to Enroll

Registration opens on April 1st. 

UC Santa Cruz Students: click here.

Adult Comunity Members: click here .

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Return to Boating Home

Click here for more information about dinghy class levels.

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Learn how to prepare your boat for hurricanes with proven strategies and detailed planning.

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Learn to Sail

You have wanted to learn to sail your entire life. ASA can bring you closer to fulfilling your dream. Our collection of resources will get you out on the water safely and confidently. With 400 schools worldwide you can find a school near you. To help you get started, we have an large collection of new sailor resources including beginner sailing lessons, online courses, webinars, and mobile apps. Become an ASA member and enjoy the many benefits of being part of the largest sailing education organization in the world.

Intermediate

Build your Skills

So you know how to sail. Now what? Now you'll work on getting better, feeling more confident, and taking your sailing to the next level. Now that you have a basic foundation of sailing it's time to have fun with your new knowledge. You can focus on expanding your sailing resume to make you a more effective skipper. We have continuing education classes like Celestial Navigation (ASA 107), Offshore Passagemaking (ASA 108), Cruising Catamaran Sailing (ASA 114), and more.

Sail the World

You are now ready to entertain the thought of sailing around the world, sailing in exotic destinations or quiting your job and living on a boat. You can safely navigate a boat in most conditions and you are only limited by your imagination. Your ASA certifications open the door to bareboat charters in Greece, flotillas in Croatia and family sailing vacations in the Caribbean. ASA partners, affiliates and schools are worldwide and they can help you find the sailing adventure that fits you best. ASA members get steep charter discounts - join today.

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9 Best Sailing Courses for Beginners (Anyone Can Take)

Whether you prefer learning to sail online for free, investing in an affordable online course, or gaining hands-on experience with in-person lessons, the opportunities are endless. In this article, we've compiled the nine best sailing courses for beginners to help you achieve your sailing goals of exploring new waters or sharpening your skills.

The best sailing courses for beginners include NauticEd's free and paid courses, ASA 101, and RYA Day Skipper Theory. ASA’s First Sail is designed to familiarize you with the basics of sailing in a fun and engaging way. Udemy courses, BoatUS Foundation Courses, and Offshore Sailing School complete the list.

NauticEd's courses cater to both free and paid learning preferences, while the American Sailing Association and other institutions provide comprehensive programs to suit your needs. What makes their courses the best? Let's find out.

• You can explore affordable online options from NauticEd and Udemy.
• American Sailing Association also offers a wide range of sailing courses.
• In-person sailing courses are available to provide hands-on experience.
• These top nine courses offer a comprehensive sailing education and equip students with the necessary skills to become confident sailors.

On this page:

Top sailing courses for beginners, free online courses, cheap online courses, in-person sailing courses.

Here's a list of the nine best sailing courses anyone can take:

• NauticEd - Skipper Rank
• Udemy - Sailing Basics
• American Sailing Association's Your First Sail
• NauticEd - Qualified Crew Member
• BoatUS Foundation Courses
• Udemy's Beginner Sailing Courses
• American Sailing Association (ASA) - ASA 101
• Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training centers - RYA Day Skipper Theory
• Offshore Sailing School

The right sailing course ensures you build a solid foundation in sailing basics, enabling you to progress faster and sail safely.

A well-rounded curriculum caters to individual learning preferences . For instance, some people might enjoy theory-based learning, while others benefit from hands-on experience. If you carefully analyze the available course options, you can find a suitable match for your specific needs and aspirations.

Investing in a quality sailing course is an investment in yourself. So, choose a course that resonates with your goals and gets you closer to your dreams of sailing the open seas.

NauticEd - Skipper Rank course : This free online course offered by NauticEd covers the basics of sailing for beginners and helps you earn your Skipper Rank. This course teaches basic sailing concepts, including sail trim, steering, and safety tips. It is perfect for beginners who want to earn a certification recognized by charter companies worldwide. The course is self-paced and can be completed on your own time, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.

Udemy - Sailing Basics : This free course on Udemy introduces beginners to sailing fundamentals, basic knots, boat handling, sail trimming, and safety procedures, making it a valuable starting point. This online course is a great option for those who are just starting out in sailing. It is designed for complete beginners and covers the basics of sailing in an easy-to-understand way.

American Sailing Association's Your First Sail : This short, online course familiarizes you with the world of sailing, sailboat workings, common commands, and basic sailing terminology. The course takes only 30–45 minutes to complete and is perfect for those who are new to sailing and want to get a taste of what it's like on the water.

NauticEd - Qualified Crew Member course : With only $39, this course teaches essential sailing skills, improving crew competence at an affordable price. The course covers topics such as sail trim, boat handling, safety procedures, and navigation, making it a valuable resource for those who want to become competent crew members. It is a self-paced course that can be completed on your own time, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.

BoatUS Foundation Courses : The BoatUS Foundation has several inexpensive online courses ideal for beginners , including boating safety, navigation, and boating skills. These courses are affordable, with prices ranging from $19 to $39. The courses are self-paced and can be completed at your own pace, making them convenient for those with busy schedules.

Udemy's Beginner Sailing Courses : A variety of affordable sailing courses ranging from sailboat selection to sailing basics and navigation, with prices starting at $14.99. These courses are perfect for beginners who want to learn at their own pace and on a budget. The courses are designed for complete beginners and cover the basics of sailing in an easy-to-understand way.

American Sailing Association (ASA) - ASA 101 : Beginners can start with their ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing course, which teaches essential sailing skills and terminology, to equip you with the skills to helm a keelboat confidently. The ASA 101 course provides hands-on sailing education for all skill levels and is available at various ASA-certified sailing schools. The course is typically taught over several days and includes classroom instruction and on-the-water training.

Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training centers - RYA Day Skipper Theory : This RYA course is designed for novices looking to learn essential navigation, meteorology, and safety procedures, regardless of their sailing experience. The course is typically taught over several days and includes classroom instruction and practical exercises. RYA training centers offer a range of sailing courses for beginners and experienced sailors alike, making them a great option for those looking for a comprehensive sailing education.

Offshore Sailing School : The Offshore Sailing School offers a variety of in-person sailing courses designed for beginners. Their Learn to Sail course covers basic sailing skills while providing hands-on experience and expert instruction. With multiple locations across the United States, you have the opportunity to learn sailing in a convenient and picturesque setting. This renowned school provides comprehensive learn-to-sail programs in various locations across the United States.

How free, paid, and in-person courses differ

Accessibility : Free online courses are accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Paid online courses are also accessible to anyone who is willing to pay the course fee. In-person courses are often limited by location and availability.

Flexibility : Free online courses and paid online courses are often self-paced, allowing students to complete the course in their own time. In-person courses, on the other hand, are often scheduled at set times and require students to attend classes in person.

Learning style : Online courses are often more suitable for those who prefer to learn at their own pace and in their own environment. In-person courses are often more suitable for those who prefer hands-on learning and interaction with instructors and other students.

Cost : Free online courses are, as the name suggests, free of charge. Paid online courses and in-person courses often require a fee, with in-person courses often being the most expensive due to the cost of materials and instructors.

Course content : Free online courses may not offer the same level of depth and detail as paid online courses and in-person courses. In-person courses often offer the most comprehensive and hands-on learning experiences.

Certification : Free online courses may not offer a certification upon completion, while paid online courses and in-person courses often offer a certificate or diploma. In-person courses often offer the most recognized certifications.

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How To Get Qualified With Sailing Courses – RYA, ASA, IYT

Getting out on the water for the first time can be a daunting task, and navigating through the range of sailing courses and qualifications can be overwhelming. In this blog, we are going to explain the different yachting schemes available around the world (ASA, RYA etc), the qualifications they can offer, and discover the best path for you.

This applies to anyone wanting to sail or motor any yacht under 500 tonnes, most yachts are only around 10 tonnes!

Do I Need Sailing Qualifications/Licences?

If you keep your boat in the UK, only sail in the UK, and your boat is under 24m long, then no, technically you don’t.  However, if you want to charter a boat, sail anywhere else in the world, or want to keep your insurance renewals low then a qualification or two is essential!

Finally, it’s not just about the licence, do you really want to take out your pride and joy, that probably cost 10’s if not 100’s of thousands, and try your luck? There is a lot of training and knowledge involved in becoming a skipper and working towards a qualification is the best approach to gaining the skills and knowledge.

How To Get Qualified

We have decided it is a good idea to get some qualifications, now how do we achieve them?  Before picking a school or instructor, you first have to look at which association they belong to. There are many to choose from as most wealthy countries have their own associations with their own qualification schemes. Once an association has been picked we can start looking at the appropriate qualifications, and finally, the schools that teach those qualifications.

RYA vs IYT vs ASA

Every qualification has to have an authorising body or association.  You would be forgiven for thinking that just picking the most local yachting or sailing association is the way to go, but sailing is an international sport and hobby. Yachts can take us all around the world and we wouldn’t want to limit our future selves by obtaining the wrong certificate. The three biggest associations are Royal Yachting Association (RYA), International Yacht Training (IYT) and American Sailing Association (ASA) so let’s start by looking at those.

Royal Yachting Association

The RYA is the oldest and most internationally recognised governing body of dinghy, yacht, and motor cruising in the world. They were the first association to standardise training in the yachting industry and they have been going strong for nearly 150 years.

The RYA is equally focused on recreational boating as it is on professional boating which makes their qualifications particularly versatile.

Once you gain the RYA Day Skipper certificate you can easily convert it into either an ICC (international certificate of competence) which is free to do for RYA members or even get it commercially endorsed as a professional qualification without having to repeat any exams.  The same can be said for the subsequent RYA Yachtmaster qualifications. This versatility and global reputation make the RYA qualifications a difficult route to beat.

International Yacht Training

IYT is a relative newcomer and was founded in 1998. Despite being a relatively new organisation, it has made quite an impact and shaken up the yachting industry for the better. International Yacht Training forced the RYA to take a more international approach to their training and the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) was actually created by International Yacht Training. However, the RYA rapidly got on board with this and now offers the ICC to holders of its own qualifications without any further or retesting required. Put simply, you can easily convert RYA qualifications to IYT qualifications, but cannot convert IYT to RYA.

You would expect there to be a strong rivalry between these two organisations but instead, they appear to work well together and have both worked to make the ICC the internationally recognised qualification it is today.

The IYT also have a good offering of professional qualifications, allowing their holders to work in the industry and arguably offer the best set of qualifications for those wishing to go on to working on superyachts. IYT are without a doubt a well-regarded association worldwide, but despite this, these newcomers are much less well known than the RYA and have far fewer training centres around the world, making their qualifications harder to obtain.

The ASA is the most prominent sailing association in America.  They are solely targeting recreational sailors and have a well thought out approach to this market.  Whilst they are less well known internationally, and they don’t offer the same options to progress into professional sailing, they do offer a good alternative to the ICC called the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC).  Officially, the IPC is the only recognised yachting ticket in the USA when it comes to chartering boats, however, in reality, the ICC will usually be accepted.

If you only want to sail in the USA, the ASA will probably do. However, for the most versatile qualifications, internationally recognised, for recreation and professional use, as well as the easiest to find training centres for, is, without doubt, the RYA.  I chose the RYA when I learnt to sail and it has never once held me back from all my adventures. On the other hand, I have met many sailors who gained other qualifications elsewhere (ASA, IYT, SA Sailing, Australian Sailing, etc…) who have had to retest at some point to get their RYA tickets.

The RYA wins hands down.

RYA Cruising Scheme – Day Skipper to Yachtmaster

Okay, so RYA it is, but which RYA course should you start with?

The RYA offers many courses from complete beginner courses to celestial navigation courses.  Where you start really depends on your prior experience and what you want to achieve. This diagram outlines the progression and entry points into the RYA Cruising Scheme:

Up until Day Skipper, you can really jump in at any point depending on your ambition.  However, once you reach Day Skipper Practical, each course assumes you have a certain amount of prior experience and knowledge, usually exactly equivalent to the course that came before it. Watch out when trying to jump or skip courses from Day Skipper Theory and onwards as you will often get caught out by your fragmented knowledge and either downgraded or simply fail the course.

There are lots of courses to suit your needs and lots of different entry points depending on our experience. If it seems a bit overwhelming we can make this simpler if we ask the question: Why do you want to take a course?

If you just want to try out being on the water for the first time, go for Start Yachting, or Start Motor Cruising.

If you want to learn to be a useful crew, start at Essential Navigation and Seamanship.

If you want to learn to be a skipper, start with Day Skipper Theory.

If you are already an experienced yachtsman and want qualifications to back it up, start with the Fast Track to Yachtmaster.

Choosing An RYA Sailing School

Finally, we know what course we want to take, now we just need to find somewhere to take it! The RYA has over 2,500 recognised training centres around the world. That’s a lot to choose from! Luckily, we are here to help make the right choice for you.

RYA Theory – Online Vs Classroom

There has been a recent shift from classroom learning to online learning. We did a lot of research into this and found the benefits of online learning to be so great that we have fully switched over to this medium and embraced e-learning. We believe we can provide a much better quality theory course with the aid of technology and are proud to be producing some of the best-prepared students for their practical training. By removing the need for travel and the cost of premises and accommodation, we have found we can offer a tailored experience for each of our students at a far more reasonable cost.

We actually wrote a whole blog on Online Vs Classroom courses so if you want to find out more, I urge you to check it out: Can You Really Learn to Sail Online ? Or, if you are already sold on the idea of an online course, head on over to our website and give our Free Trial a go .

RYA Practical Centres

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a practical centre, first and foremost, where do you want to sail? Some people just want somewhere local, some want adventure, and some want sun. Think carefully about where you want to sail and make a holiday out of your practical course in the right location.

Once you have a location in mind, time to start searching. There will no doubt still be multiple options but remember, cheaper is not better! There isn’t a large profit margin on RYA courses, so if a training centre is cheap, they are probably cutting corners. The first corners to cut are instructor wages and vessel maintenance so getting a cheap course may just result in your hard-earned money getting wasted on inexperienced instructors and poorly maintained vessels. This is not worth the savings as it will severely impact your enjoyment and how much you can get out of the course.

Armed with that advice, we recommend using the RYA’s Find a Training Centre tool to help you find the best training centre for you: https://www.rya.org.uk/wheres-my-nearest

So, what have we learned?

• You need qualifications to charter a boat.
• Qualifications will lower your insurance premium.
• Qualifications will help you learn, stay safe, and enjoy your time on the water.
• Go with RYA qualifications for maximum versatility and recognition.
• If you want to be a Skipper, you need the RYA Day Skipper certificate.
• Take your theory courses online with Ardent Training.
• Choose where you want to learn to sail (in the sun or somewhere close to home?)
• Go quality over price to get more out of your training.

If you want any more advice, you can always contact one of our team at Ardent Training.  Just drop us an email at [email protected] or give us a call on 01688 325025.

If you can’t wait to get started, check out our Free Trial of our RYA Day Skipper online theory course.

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Home  Education  Adult Sailing  Sailing Certification Courses & Endorsements  Basic Keelboat

Sailing Certification Courses & Endorsements

Basic keelboat, the basic keelboat graduate will have successfully demonstrated the ability to responsibly skipper and crew a simple daysailing keelboat in familiar waters in light to moderate wind and sea conditions..

Find a school near you

Recommended Equipment: It is recommended that Basic Keelboat Certification courses and examinations be conducted on 18′ to 27′ daysailing sloop-rigged keelboats with tiller steering and with adequate equipment inventory to complete all required certification outcomes.

Prerequisite: There is no US Sailing prerequisite for Basic Keelboat Certification. Check with your school to see if they have any pre-course requirements.

Certification Requirements: Basic Keelboat Certification requires the successful completion of the following knowledge and skill requirements. These requirements are expected to be able to be performed safely with confident command of the boat in familiar waters with a wind range of 5 to 15 knots. Some regions may have stronger prevailing conditions, which are acceptable if the candidate can safely control the boat and be aware of his or her limitations in these conditions. The certified candidate will be able to skipper a tiller-steered keelboat up to 27 feet in length.

Is chartering a yacht your dream vacation, but don't know where to start? Try US Sailing's Basic Keelboat course! Learn more about how getting your basic keelboat certification can start your chartering journey in this video with US Sailing partner The Moorings.

Practical Skills

Preparation to sail:.

• Demonstrate the ability to recognize and forecast prevailing local weather conditions.
• Demonstrate how to properly board a boat.
• Perform a presail check for the boat’s flotation integrity, safety and legally required equipment, and crew indoctrination.
• Demonstrate the proper rigging of the sails, halyards, sheets, blocks, and winches.
• Check all other equipment specific to your boat not indicated above.

Crew Operations and Skills:

• Demonstrate how to put on a life jacket.
• Demonstrate tying and use of knots: stopper knot, bowline, cleat hitch and a square knot.
• Demonstrate the use of these sail controls: halyards, sheets, Cunningham/downhaul, and outhaul.

Leaving the Dock or Mooring

• Demonstrate appropriate helmsman and crew coordination and skills for departure suitable to the conditions: raising sails, line handling, casting off and boathandling.

Boat Control in Confined Waters:

• Demonstrate in close quarters under sail: starting, stopping, speed control, tacking, jibing, steering control, sail luffing, the No-Go Zone, getting out of irons, backing the jib, and crew coordination and communication.
• Demonstrate sailing a predetermined closed course and maneuvering around obstacles.

Navigation:

• Point out Aids to Navigation in the harbor and local waters that you are sailing, and respond accordingly.

Navigation Rules, International-Inland:

• Demonstrate the use of Navigation Rules while sailing.

Boat Control in Open Water:

• Demonstrate proper sail trim with accurate sheet adjustment of the main and headsails. Make use of the sail telltales and identify points of sail.
• Perform a heaving-to maneuver.
• When appropriate, demonstrate sailing “by the lee” and explain the inherent dangers involved.

Heavy Weather Sailing:

• Demonstrate how to reef and/or depower sails.

Overboard Rescue Methods:

• Properly demonstrate one of the overboard rescue methods, which is most appropriate for your sailing ability, boat type, crew experience, wind and sea conditions, and maintaining constant visual contact with the person in water.

Safety and Emergency Procedures:

• Explain the proper procedure for using an approved distress signal.

Returning to the Dock or Mooring:

• Demonstrate appropriate helmsman and crew coordination and skills for arrival under sail and/or power suitable to the conditions: boathandling, deploying fenders, stopping, tying up and lowering sails. Explain at least two different approach plans for other conditions.
• Demonstrate stowing of sails, rigging, and equipment. Thoroughly clean the boat, and install any covers.
• Check both the electrical and bilge systems for dock operation if required.
• Check the locks on companionway, lockers, and hatches. Make a final check of docklines, spring lines, and fender placement.
• Describe personal preparation such as clothing and sun protection.
• Be familiar with the nomenclature for basic parts of the boat, sails, battens, and rigging.
• Describe the proper use of life jackets and throwable flotation devices.
• Describe the use of sail controls.
• Explain potential electrical hazards such as overhead electrical wires and lightning.

Sailing Theory:

• Describe basic sailboat design, sail theory, and boat dynamics.
• Explain how to read the wind and determine all points of sail.
• Understand what is meant by the term “sailing by the lee” and explain the inherent dangers involved.

Leaving the Dock or Mooring:

• Understand the effects of wind, tide and currents in relation to the boat and surrounding area while preparing to get underway.
• Describe the differences and alternatives for leaving under sail and/or power in upwind, crosswind and downwind situations.
• Be familiar with basic chart reading specific to your local waters.
• Describe Aids to Navigation: buoys, daymarks, regulatory markers, and other markers specific to your local waters.
• Describe the Navigation Rules, International-Inland, for Stand-On and Give-Way sailboats and powerboats for collision avoidance and understand your state and local boating regulations.
• Describe weather warning sources.
• Understand the Quick-Stop and Figure-8 overboard rescue methods to include: constant visual contact with the person in water, communication, rescue plan, sequence of maneuvers, boathandling, course sailed, pickup approach and coming alongside the person in water (or simulated object).
• Describe methods of getting a person in water on deck.
• Be familiar with the treatment of overheating, hypothermia and seasickness.
• Describe the use and regulations for flares.
• Be familiar with at least six different distress and emergency signals per Navigation Rule 37.
• Be familiar with the U.S. Coast Guard requirements for safety equipment.

Anchoring Techniques:

• Be familiar with anchoring procedures for emergency situations such as loss of boat control, sudden storms, prevention from going aground or injured crew situations.
• Describe the differences and alternatives for arrival under sail and/or power in upwind, crosswind and downwind situations.

Challenge a Course

If you are an experienced sailor, you may also challenge a course to achieve the desired level. the us sailing keelboat certification system is a series of sailing levels based on the natural progression of experience from daysailing to cruising and then extended passage making..

A certification candidate may, with previous experience and competency, challenge the required prerequisite levels by completing the written and practical examinations for each required level.  Essentially, you will be taken for an on-the-water check out for the highest level of certification you are challenging.  Pass the practical and then take the exam for the appropriate certification levels.

An example is that you wish to challenge the bareboat cruising certification.  You are taken for an on-the-water check out at the bareboat cruising level to ensure you have the skill sets we expect our students to have at that level.  Pass the practical and then you take the multiple choice exams at the basic keelboat, basic cruising, and bareboat cruising levels.  Click here to review the standards at all of our certification levels.

For further information, contact an Accredited US Sailing School.

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• Junior Sailing Safety Guide

Safety at Sea

• Safety at Sea Planning
• Hosting a US Sailing Championship

Zeth Morgan Education Coordinator Email Zeth Morgan

Bonnie Braddock Learning Design and Development Specialist Email Bonnie Braddock

Diana Emmanuelli Competition Manager Email Diana Emmanuelli 401-342-7912

Andrew Clouston SVP Programs & Services Email Andrew Clouston

Karen Davidson Adult Program Coordinator Email Karen Davidson (401) 342-7934

Bradley Schoch Senior Instructional Designer Email Bradley Schoch

Peri Burns Educational Operations Manager Email Peri Burns 401-342-7963

Andi Barton Sr. Education Coordinator Email Andi Barton 401-342-7910

Stu Gilfillen Director of Education Email Stu Gilfillen 401-342-7967

Betsy Alison Adult Director Email Betsy Alison 401-342-7914

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June 18, 2024

Yacht club profile, armdale yacht club: promoting sailing for more than a century.

Nestled on the shores of Halifax’s Melville Island is the historic Armdale Yacht Club (AYC), the second oldest yacht club in Nova Scotia, which prides itself on its friendly atmosphere, collegial club culture and inclusivity to boaters and non-boaters alike.

The club’s history goes back to 1920, when a group of young men organized a club out of Stoneman’s Armdale Boat House on the lower end of Halifax’s Quinpool Road. After the initial club was torn down, the group relocated to what is now Regatta Point on the city’s Northwest Arm. By 1947, the group relocated again to their current location on Melville Island, which they rented from Canada’s Department of National Defense (DND). 

Although Melville Island currently hosts the AYC, its history goes back much further than that. Since 1732, the island has been a private estate, hospital, quarantine station, military prison, prisoner of war camp, a military training station and an ammunition depot.  All the buildings used by the AYC today, according to past club commodore Sarah-Jane Raine, are original buildings dating back to the 1800s.

“They’re all original. Our clubhouse, when you stand in the centre part of it, was put there in 1808. DND allowed us, over a period of time, to add around the perimeter — the last piece being out in 1968,” said Raine. “The stone jail is still there, and it was built in 1884, and it is pretty well original to what it was back in 1884. The cells, now, are rented out on a yearly basis to the members for storage.”

While the AYC is steeped in history, that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a modernized club with all the services and facilities one would see in any Atlantic Canadian yacht club. The AYC offers wet and dry winter storage, a slipway and cradle system with a maximum capacity of 35 tons, daily and seasonal marinas and moorings, water and power hookups and a fuel dock.

With a membership of 198 boating members and 86 social members, the AYC hosts an large fleet of Bluenose and Roue sailboats, which are regularly put to use during the club’s weekly races.

“We do PHRF racing on Wednesdays, one design racing on Thursdays, weekend races and we have a significant cruising group,” said AYC Commodore Jeff Nelson.

The AYC also hosts six regattas every year, the largest being their Harbour Islands Classic where boaters race around all the islands in the Halifax Harbour. The club also hosts the AYC Opening Regatta, the Ice Breaker Regatta, the Die Hard Regatta, the Mark MacNeil Memorial Race and the Commodore’s Cup.

The club, like many, offers a learn to sail program for both youth and adults. The AYC also offers a program called Broader Reach, which seeks to introduce sailing to new Canadians in the Halifax area.

“Nova Scotia is surrounded by water, and a lot of people would like to be out on the water,” said Nelson. “When we looked at our programs, we kind of discovered there wasn’t any on-ramps for people arriving in Nova Scotia to get them on the water, so we developed the Broader Reach program, which has been quite successful in bringing new people into boating.”

The Broader Reach program has brought people from an assortment of backgrounds, from Ukrainians to Mexicans, Brazilians, Syrians and beyond.

Beyond sailing, the club makes a point of engaging their members in monthly social activities. This, according to AYC’s Communications and Marketing Officer, Brian Blakeney, allows the club’s 86 social members to regularly participate in club activities.

Even when the club goes off and does their cruising functions, we try to take it to a place where socials can drive to. We try to involve them as much as we can,” said Blakeney. “We had casino night, we had jazz night, we had a wine tasting and jam sessions on Friday night.”

Club members and visitors can also take advantage of the full-service bar and restaurant at Spinnakers, located onsite. The location also offers catering for functions held at the club through Horizons Catering, hosted by Executive Chef Andy Thomson.

Between the historic location, the regattas, the amenities and the services provided at the AYC, the clubs management had a lot of positive things to say about their spot on the Northwest Arm. Their favourite thing about Armdale Yacht Club, however, is the collegial spirit and friendly attitude of their membership.

“It’s a very friendly outgoing club, and I’ve had that said to me by new members. They’ve always felt welcomed here. People will talk to them, even if they don’t recognize them,” said Raine. “You always see groups of people standing together and chatting. If you come up into the clubhouse, it can be a stranger just here for the first time or here for 25 years; they’ll speak to you.”

“We’re steeped in history, but we have one heck of a good time,” said Nelson.

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Shelter island’s menantic yacht club is setting sail into 2024.

By Robert Harris

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The Menantic Yacht Club (MYC) is back for another season of fun Sunfish racing and camaraderie.

Our membership has increased over the years, with an average of 25 sailors participating every weekend. There will be one major change this year as the MYC’s long-time Commodore Pete Bethge has retired; he and Sallie are now enjoying life full-time in Florida. The MYC leadership now consists of yours truly as commodore, Steve Shepstone as vice commodore, Melissa Shepstone as treasurer, and Betsy Colby as secretary.

I hope everyone had an enjoyable winter and spring. I know some of our sailors, including Peter Beardsley, Alicia Rojas and Lee Montes, did their share of frostbiting over the winter.

On a sad note, Dave Olsen, a long-time, much-loved member of the MYC passed in December. Dave was a top notch sailor who was more interested in giving a helping hand to anyone in need, on or off the race course, than in finishing first. Dave hand-made a number of the MYC’s most beautiful trophies; some of his handmade trophies reside at the Shelter Island Yacht Club as well.

Dave, with his green helmet and helping hand, will be missed by the entire Shelter Island sailing community, and especially by the MYC.

On Sunday June 23, Vice-Commodore Steve Shepstone will hold a Race Committee “Tune-Up Practice” at 1 p.m. at his home at 5 Wheeler Road. He will review RC duties, including safety procedures, sailing instructions, mark placements and communications. Review will be both on shore and on water. Volunteers and sailors are  invited and should attend. RSVP to Steve Shepstone ( [email protected] ). You will learn about the finer points of conducting sailboat races. Steve is a judge with US Sailing.

Charlie Modica has a special treat in store for everyone this summer — stay tuned.

Betty Bishop and Matt Fox will captain the stake and mark boats, and hopefully our dedicated crew of volunteers will return: Debra Mintz, Amy Cococcia, Dave Daly, Ben Gonzales, Melanie Coronetz, Rita Gates, Ed Goble Elsie Rose, Mike Donlon, Susan Donlon, and all the others who volunteer from time-to-time.

And, of course, Betsy Colby will be race PRO, hopefully assisted by Marion Thomsen, Ed Hydeman and others. Non-sailors from the Shelter Island community are also invited to volunteer. Charlie, as usual, will loan the MYC his inflatable for use as the stake boat, and Jonathan Brush’s powerboat will be used by the Race Committee. Tom NcMahon’s BW will be used also.

Prior to the first race on Sunday, June 30, there will be a skippers’ meeting at our “clubhouse” at Commodore Pete’s Landing, i.e., the North Silver Beach Town landing, starting at 12:30 p.m., with the first horn going off at 2 p.m.

We will all have a chance to catch up with each other after a long winter, and to answer any questions about the upcoming season. If you have not already returned your waivers and membership forms, please bring them. They will also be available at the meeting.

The MYC was started in 1933, continued until the early 1950’s, and then had a hiatus until Commodore Pete reactivated it in 1968. Back in the day, Commodore Pete sailed Cape Cod Rockets; later he switched to Sunfish, which we sail today. In the words of Commodore Pete: “Menantic Yacht Club has a wonderful history of being a welcoming club. We are very proud of our two “C’s — camaraderie and Corinthian sailing.”

The MYC is a family-oriented club, and we would love to have some younger sailors join us. In previous years we have had families sailing together and as teams sharing the same boat.

We are a very congenial club, open to all. We may not have a clubhouse, but the sailing is great, the camaraderie is superb, and we just have tremendous fun. All sailors, novice to expert, are welcome. Just show up in West Neck Harbor at 2 on any Sunday starting on June 30 and going through September 1 the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.

Check in with the Race Committee giving them your full name and sail number, and be sure to bring your life jacket. Non-sailors are also welcome to assist with the Race Committee and stake boats. You can get more information about the MYC from our Facebook page: Menantic Yacht Club, or from Bob Harris at [email protected] . Steve and Melissa Shepstone have a fleet of loaner boats available on a first to reserve basis. Contact Ellen Leonforte at 914-450-1450 or at [email protected] to reserve your boat.

The MYC is a Shelter Island tradition. Let’s keep up the tradition, so please join us this summer for some of the best fun you will ever have.

See you on the water.

On a another note: congratulations to Peter Beardsley, Lee Montes, Paul Zinge, Rich Prieto and others on their participation in the Sunfish North American Championships this past weekend. Peter and Lee qualified for the Worlds. No small feat against 105 other competitors.

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Solution Inland Championships 2024 at Northampton Sailing Club

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New boating safety education course and safety report

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must have a Boating Safety Education ID Card to legally operate a boat in Florida.

The U.S. Coast Guard recently published their 2023 safety report.

Nationally, 75% of boat operator deaths, the operator did not have a safe boating class. Florida is 83%.

Manatee Sail and Power Squadron is offering an 9-hour course at the Palmetto Library on Saturday, July 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. which continues the following Saturday, July 27 at the same times.

The course will teach boat operators the following skills:

• Information about Florida Boating Laws, regulations, boat registration, and licensing.
• Required boating safety equipment.
• The Dos and Don’ts of boating safety.
• Practical knowledge of navigation and rules of the waterways.
• How to manage medical emergencies and mechanical problems on the water.
• The basics of towing and trailering.
• Special important information for hunters, anglers, and sports enthusiasts.

The boating course aims to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, help save money on boat insurance, and qualify individuals for a Florida Boating Safety Education Identification Card.

The Power Squadron will give out a certificate of completion on the final day and the Florida Fish and Wildlife will mail students a Boating Safety Card.

The course costs $30 cash or check. A textbook is included with the price.

Same family couples may share a textbook and only need to pay one registration fee.

Payment and registration deadline is July 18, 2024. 

Register here or contact Larry Beverage at [email protected] or 941-518-3971.

Copyright 2024 WWSB. All rights reserved.

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Published on June 16th, 2024 | by Editor

Challenges for 170th Annual Regatta

Published on June 16th, 2024 by Editor -->

The 170th New York Yacht Club Annual Regatta featured an historic fleet of more than 150 boats when the racing was held June 14-16 in Newport, RI. After a successful Around the Island Race on day one, light winds limited some of the racing for the remaining two day schedule.

For the top-flight competitive fleet in ORC B, their four race series fit into the light winds on the final day where David Team’s TP52 Vesper squad fought with rival Fox, skippered by Victor Wild, doing most everything as right as can be expected on a very challenging day.

“We felt in the first two races, when it was really light, 6 knots and under, that we had a click of pace on people,” says Team. “But then the wind shifts come into play with that light of a breeze. The first race we got it called right, the second race we were on the wrong side of the shift, but our speed was still good all day.”

As the seabreeze filled for Races 3 and 4, Fox found its groove. Going into the leeward mark rounding of the final race, it appeared everything was going the way of Wild’s crew, which had a two-point lead in the standings and was ahead in the race.

“Fox was leading, we were trying to do our best to figure out how to pass them,” says Team. “They fouled [a boat from another fleet] and they did the right thing, a 360, and that kind of just reshuffled the race.”

In the five-boat ORC B, with a preponderance of professional sailors across the fleet, one small mistake can make a huge difference. In this case, it dropped Fox from first to fourth in the race, and from first to second in the regatta.

Team has actively raced his 52-foot Vesper for four-plus years. While he’s based on the West Coast, his sailing has been concentrated further east, Florida in the winter and then splitting his summer regattas between the Great Lakes 52 circuit in the Midwest and Newport. This year, with the ORC World Championship scheduled for early fall, is a Newport summer, and the Annual Regatta is one key step on the way toward contending for a world championship in the fall.

“It’s a process,” Team says. “We think we’re on the path to where we hope to be. We still have some things to accomplish. We’ve got a couple of very strong competitors that we are trying to beat. Sometimes we do, sometimes we don’t. We’re all trying to get better for September/October.”

While Team has his eyes squarely set on ORC competition, that’s definitely not the case for Drew Freides. A devoted one-design skipper, Freides entered his Cape 31 Pacific Yankee in the Annual Regatta hoping that enough of his fellow Cape 31 owners would follow suit and he would enjoy some one-design racing in the up-and-coming class. When the class fell short of what’s required for a one-design start, the Pacific Yankee team and three other Cape 31s were moved to ORC D.

“It definitely had us on two wheels a little bit,” says Freides, a former world champion in the Melges 24 and Melges 20 classes. “We weren’t prepared for handicap racing, so we had to adjust our sailing. We wanted to beat our fleet [of Cape 31s]. But the boat is pretty competitive under ORC. We changed our expectations after we got off to a good start and started racing against the rest of the fleet as well.”

Freides and his team were super consistent through three races, taking two seconds and a third, winning the class by 3 points. As the smallest and lightest boat in the fleet, successfully racing the Cape 31 required some strategic concessions.

“Tactically, it made you think differently,” says Freides. “We couldn’t put ourselves in spots that could compromise us because the bigger boats were faster upwind. Once we turned the corner, we could sail away from them pretty easily.”

In second and third in the overall standings were two other Cape 31 teams, which is somewhat of a surprise given that handicap rules have traditionally not been kind to lighter, smaller, faster boats.

“I haven’t done a lot of homework on the ORC rating of the Cape 31,” says Freides. “But these boats seem to rate really well under ORC. [Cape 31 designer] Mark Mills has done a fabulous job. I’m surprised more people haven’t bought these boats because they’re just a lot of fun.”

The largest fleet at the regatta was the IC37 class, with 24 boats. The fleet this year has been buoyed by nearly 10 new teams. But after the dust settled this weekend, the name at the top of the results was a familiar one, Steve Liebel and his New Wave team. With a fifth, a ninth and a second in the crucial final race, New Wave finished the regatta tied on points with Daniel Thielman’s Kuai team, winning the regatta via a tie breaker.

“Sailing was phenomenal, a little tricky today, shifty and light, but a good time,” says Liebel. “Sometimes you were looking like a hero, sometimes you were a zero. We were both today. I think we were second-to-last in the first race today, but climbed back. In the end, it was a good day.”

Last year, the IC37 fleet usually numbered around 15 boats. This year it should be greater than 20 in all major regattas, which means winning requires an extra degree of caution.

“A fleet with 12 to 15 boats is a little more forgiving,” says Liebel. “You have a bad start or have an error, all of a sudden you’re in 10th. You pass 5, you’re in the top 5, so you’re ok. In 23 or 24 boats, you get deep—and every top boat out there was deep at some point—and it’s hard to get back to the top half of the fleet.”

While the other four boats in the top five were all teams with previous experience in the class, Liebel was encouraged by the three new teams—Glory from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Nathan Allman’s Barefoot team and Bill Zartler’s Voodoo Too—that rounded out the top 10.

“It’s exciting to see those new people coming into the class and doing well,” says Liebel. “A lot of people, a lot of different boats, had some very good finishes. It’s great to have those people come into the class, see success and hopefully they’ll want to come back.”

Event information – Race details – Results

Tags: New York Yacht Club Annual Regatta

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Man dies, two rescued after yacht capsizes off Lady Elliot Island

The search for a sailor who went missing when a yacht overturned off the Queensland coast has ended in tragedy after his body was recovered.

Police said the 65-year-old man had been travelling on the yacht from Yeppoon to Brisbane when an EPIRB was activated about four nautical miles south of Lady Elliot Island about 5am Sunday.

The vessel was found shortly after 10:15am with two men in the water.

RACQ LifeFlight said the father and son had managed to climb onto the upside-down vessel to raise the alarm.

They were winched into a rescue helicopter.

"It's believed the keel snapped on the boat the men were on, causing it to overturn," LifeFlight said in a media release.

Police said a 62-year-old man and 27-year-old man were taken to Bundaberg Hospital where they remained in a stable condition.

They said the body of the 65-year-old man was found shortly after 2pm.

Police said all three men were from Yeppoon.

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