You want to go sailing. You understand tacking and jibing. You can recite the points of sail without thinking. Yet when it is time to return the boat to her slip, your heartrate quickens and your grip on the wheel tightens. Perhaps it has been a few months and you are not sure you remember all the principles. Maybe you have never even docked a sailing yacht before!
I have a weekend course designed to help you understand the theories and to help you decide how to use the behavior of the boat to help you get her into a slip or alongside a pier or bulkhead.
On the first day, we will cover the following topics through discussion and hands-on learning:
Don't worry if you don't know the terms. You Will! I will simply explain...in plain terms...what makes sailboats move the way they do. Then you will reinforce that knowledge with hands-on practice. The goal is to anticipate the boat's movement rather than just wish for it. At the end of the first day, you will know how the boat will respond to applying power in both directions and to various dockline configurations. You will also know how to apply this experience to working the boat backwards into a slip.
The second day, we will work on crew management. That is, you will learn how to prepare your crew and communicate with them during various maneuvers. Preparation is the key. Both your vessel and your crew must be ready to execute a drama-free approach to a slip or dock. Feel the pride the comes from completing a landing slowly and quietly...as it should be done!
At the end of the course, you will receive individual feedback on your performance to help you leverage your skills and further develop any weak areas.
Ideally I run this class with a maximum of four students. Alternatively I can offer private instruction at higher rates than for a full class. Either way, the fee includes a berth on a mid-size cruising sailboat, instructional materials, an experienced instructor, fuel, and holding tank pump-out. Food, is NOT included. Given the short class and the fact that we stay in the marina overnight, each person will be responsible for his or her own food.
If you are interested, call Rob at 908.672.3609.
A refresher class is a great way to shake off the winter rust and begin your sailing season!
Any questions? Send us an email or call us at 908.672.3609.
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