This comprehensive cruising course is designed for sailors with prior sailing experience. Six on-the-water days (3 as skipper). Certified students will act as skipper or crew aboard a 38-50 foot sailboat, navigating coastal waters by day. The curriculum covers essential skills, including basic navigation, cruise planning, anchoring techniques, boat systems, and maintenance procedures. Students will also learn international sailing considerations and how to respond to various “what if” scenarios that may arise offshore, becoming the “first responder” in such situations. Most charter companies require a sailing resume from the Skipper, and this internationally recognized ASA 104 certification is often a key requirement for chartering vessels.

Course Curriculum
On the first day, students will arrive in the evening and plan the trip itinerary and provisions, including meals (breakfast, lunch, and at least one dinner aboard). After a provisioning run and charting lesson, the class will finalize plans and spend the night on the boat at the marina.

The second day, we will set sail for the first anchorage. Once anchored, students will participate in a classroom-style session covering the yacht’s electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems. Navigation skills will also be practiced as students chart their course for the next leg of the trip. Dinner will be prepared onboard, and students will get hands-on experience prepping the dinghy to head ashore and explore.

On the third day, the group will dock at a marina, which provides additional docking practice. Dinner will typically be enjoyed ashore at a local restaurant, and students will complete their ASA 104 exam.

On the last day, students will plan the departure route before sailing back to Sturgeon Bay, with an anticipated midday arrival.

Format

This course is taught from Harbor Club Marina, located in Sturgeon Bay, WI. It is offered as a 4-day overnight course, beginning on Tuesday, June 10th, and returning on Friday, June 13th around noon. The Bareboat Cruising Made Easy textbook is included with your purchase of the course.