Experience a truly amazing and challenging journey which will give you a sound introduction to life at sea.
Note: This course is not for the casual sailor, and since we will be at least two days from land at some point, it entails a certain amount of risk. The passage north of Bermuda is often rough and winds over 50 knots are not uncommon. Call for the latest info about times and instructors for this course. Students who have taken this course with us can repeat the course (if space is available) for 50% off.
Generally scheduled early December. Please call for further details.
The course format is a one week cruise, with at least three to four days spent offshore, for over 80 hours of instruction. Although this course is intended to take up where Advanced Cruising stops, this course can be taken out of sequence, if you have some open water experience already.
Topics include
- Inspecting the boat, rigging and systems
- Spinnaker use, rigging a preventer or brake
- Diesel servicing and repairs
- Night watch using radar and other means
- Weather forecasting with SSB, weatherfax, satellite
- Single line docking practice
- Gulf Stream Analysis
- Man overboard drills with a Life Sling
- Trip planning, supplies & provisioning
- Preparing for 40-60 knots using a stay or trysail
- Medical emergencies
There are two instructors per course, and no more than six students. The passage will include a leg that will bring us over 300-500 miles from land.