Master Sailing with US Sailing Basic Cruising in Seattle
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle basic boat maneuvers and movement on a moving vessel.
Overview
Join the US Sailing Basic Cruising Series in Seattle and gain essential skills to skipper your own boat. This three-day course offers expert instruction, hands-on sailing, and the chance to explore Puget Sound’s stunning waters.
US Sailing Basic Cruising Series
Course - US Sailing
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a transformative 3-day Basic Cruising course, where you'll gain the skills to confidently skipper a 40' sailboat in various conditions. Learn essential techniques, from maneuvering under power to emergency procedures, all while enjoying the thrill of sailing. Perfect for aspiring sailors ready to take command on the water!
3 DAY COURSE FROM 9AM-5PM
BASIC CRUISING 1: SATURDAY YOU ARE BOOKING BASIC CRUISING 2: FOLLOWING SUNDAY BASIC CRUISING 3: SATURDAY ONE WEEK FROM START DATE
Overview:
The Basic Cruising graduate will have successfully demonstrated the ability to responsibly skipper and crew an auxiliary powered inboard cruising sailboat during daylight hours, within sight of land in moderate and sea conditions.
Decription:
Basic Cruising 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 a wind range of 5 to 20 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 cruiser up to 40′ in length.
Curriculum:
- Wheel steering
- Inboard diesel engine
- Larger heavier vessels
- More complex systems
- Importance of conservation
- Marine Weather and prevailing conditions (classroom)
- AC/DC electrical systems
- Formulating Departure Plans
- Tacking and jibing skills for larger vessels
- Points of sail review
- Right of way/Collision avoidance review
- Maneuvering Under Power
- Starting and stopping practice
- Back and fill maneuver
- Docking
- Cruising Boat Systems
- The need to conserve
- Center of effort & center of lateral resistance
- Weather helm
- Lee helm
- Draft and how it applies to the mainsail
- Fresh water system
- Waste/Head system
- De-Powering mainsail exercises
- Jib Shaping exercise
- Reefing
- Maneuvering Under Sail in Close Quarters
- Aids to Navigation
- Sea buoys and Beacons
- Channels
- Local hazards
- Tides and Currents
- Visual observations
- Captain Jacks Tides & Current tables
- Plan a day sail trip
- Crossing the Traffic
- Separation Zone
- Steering to a Compass Course
- Anchoring Drills
- Establishing ranges
- Stove and Oven Operation
- Emergency Procedures Discussion
- Reefing While Under Sail
- Close Reach point of sail
- Crew Overboard Drills using the Figure Eight method.
Prerequisite:
US Sailing Basic Keelboat Certification or equivalent
Tipping:
Tipping your instructor is customary within the boating industry and it is greatly valued and appreciated!
Adventure Tips
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Choose shoes with good grip to maintain stability on wet and moving decks.
Dress in Layers
Seattle’s weather can change quickly; layering keeps you comfortable and dry.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water on board to stay hydrated, especially during sunny or windy days.
Listen to Weather Briefings
Pay close attention to daily weather updates to ensure safe sailing conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals often seen near marinas
- Bald eagles soaring above the Puget Sound
History
Seattle has a rich maritime heritage, with sailing deeply embedded in its culture since the early 20th century.
Conservation
Efforts to protect Puget Sound’s water quality and marine habitats are ongoing, with local regulations promoting eco-friendly boating practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Seattle
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and wind to keep you dry during variable weather.
spring specific
Non-Slip Sailing Shoes
Ensure safety and grip on wet boat decks.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare from water and protects your eyes during bright days.
summer specific
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures throughout the day.
fall specific