Almost done... new sailors

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We're almost at the end of the class. The cadets have made very good progress, although we have had difficult weather this spring. Several times we have cancelled sailing altogether, which reduces the time we can spend sailing.

We've learned the major parts of the boat and how to rig it properly.  This involves learning a lot of new words, too!







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These cadets are sailing a Beam Reach, with Coach John Jackson offering advice... at this point, they don't need much.

To pass Basic Sailing, the cadets need to learn terminology, rigging, how to steer & how to handle the sails, basic maneuvers, and Right-Of-Way rules. This gives them the skills to handle the boats from the dock to any nearby destination, and back again safely.





Cadets who pass Basic Sailing receive the Sea Cruise ribbon for their uniforms, and academic credit. This is the equivalent of a college-level course. Once they are qualified 'basic sailors' they can continue to sail either for fun or to learn more ... like navigation, weather, communications, along with advanced sailing skills... and many of our sailing cadets have gone on to race or charter sailboats on their own.




The main purpose of the class, however, is to teach teamwork and leadership- none of this can happen just on it's own!


Here's two of our advanced sailors, handling the boat quite well. Although this picture looks idyllic, it was actually quite a rough day. They just make it look easy!





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Moments after the above photo, along comes a gust... wind strength jumped from the neighborhood of 12mph to around 20mph.

This time, everything is fine & under control. A bit later, the boat heeled over enough to have water pouring in over the side. Then it was time to start bailing the water out!





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Here's one of our new sailors, doing a great job. In this photo, we have just finished a 'Baby Duck' drill which included every Point Of Sail, Tacking, and Stopping.

This afternoon, most of the new sailors went from being able but hesitant and needing a reminder now and then, to handling the boats decisively and confidently. Big improvement, great afternoon of sailing!



... posted by Assistant Coach Douglas King

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