Master Coastal Navigation Skills with US Sailing in Seattle
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 sessions, approx. 3 hours each
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly seated learning with some on-water practice
Overview
Gain essential coastal piloting skills with US Sailing's comprehensive four-part navigation course in Seattle. Learn to read charts, identify hazards, and navigate Puget Sound confidently—sans GPS.
US Sailing Coastal Navigation
Classroom Course - US Sailing
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join our engaging four-part Coastal Navigation course to master essential navigation tools and skills. Learn to navigate safely along the coast, identify hazards, and optimize your routes. This course prepares you for exciting adventures, whether harbor hopping or venturing offshore, ensuring you can find your way even without GPS.
4 PART CLASSROOM SERIES:
- February 24th, 27th, March 3rd, and 6th from 6pm-9pm
US Sailing Coastal Navigation: Our Coastal Navigation course is designed to acquaint you with all the tools, publications and skills required for successful coastal navigation. It also provides you with all the academic and theoretical knowledge you need to develop great navigation skills in the Coastal Passage Making course. Coastal navigation skills are the underpinning of all safe and efficient distance cruising, whether you're harbor hopping to Mexico or just occasionally out of sight of land because of Bay fog. You will learn not only how to find your way and how to identify and avoid hazards along your route, but also how to minimize the distance you need to travel and maximize your progress toward your destination.
Successful completion prepares you to:
Navigate your way along the coast using charts, compass and your own skills. If your GPS stops working, you'll be able to find your way to safe harbor. Successful completion prepares you for the US Sailing Coastal Passage Making as well as Offshore Passage Making.
Prerequisites: None!
Adventure Tips
Master Basic Chart Reading
Familiarize yourself with maritime charts before heading out to understand symbols and depth contours.
Practice Compass Use
Develop proficiency using a magnetic compass to maintain course when visibility drops or electronics fail.
Know Tide and Current Cycles
Study the local tide tables as Puget Sound currents significantly affect navigation and vessel handling.
Use GPS as a Backup
Rely primarily on traditional navigation techniques but confirm positions with GPS for added safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Orcas swimming through Puget Sound
- Bald eagles nesting near shorelines
History
Seattle’s maritime history dates back to the Duwamish people, with modern sailing culture growing alongside the city’s rise as a Pacific trade hub.
Conservation
Participants are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and support local efforts to maintain Puget Sound’s fragile marine ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Seattle
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Nautical Chart Kit
Includes charts, plotting tools, and dividers crucial for hands-on navigation exercises.
Compass
A must-have for mastering directional skills even when GPS is unavailable.
Waterproof Notebook
Useful for taking notes and recording bearings during practical sessions.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable during on-water lessons amid Seattle’s variable weather.