BASIC CRUISING

What Will I Learn?

Topics of the course include:

• Weather forecasting
• Basic coastal navigation
• Systems checks
• Docking and mooring procedures
• Anchoring
• Boat handling in confined waters
• Heavy weather sailing methods
• Safety and emergency procedures
• VHF marine radio operation
• Operating an outboard engine

After completing this class students are eligible to take the written exam to obtain a US Sailing Basic Cruising Certification.

Is this the right class for me?

Basic Cruising is the next step at MBAC for students who have completed Basic Keelboat Sailing Levels 1 and 2. It is an ideal course for those wishing to gain the skills and confidence necessary to sail a keelboat as the person in charge.

Requirements

• Prerequisite: MBAC Basic Keelboat Sailing Level 2 or equivalent experience.
• This class is open to all participants aged 14 and up.
• A general liability waiver is required to participate. Anyone under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.
• Participants must acknowledge that they are water-safe (able to swim 50 meters and comfortably tread water).
• You must possess a US Sailing Basic Keelboat certification to qualify for the US Sailing Basic Cruising certification.

How to Prepare

Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. The temperature can feel much cooler than expected once you are on the water, so it is a good idea to bring a jacket, even on warm days. We suggest comfortable closed-toed shoes and sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended. Lifejackets are provided.

It is unlikely that you will end up in the water while sailing during this class, but you may get a little bit wet from small splashes, handling wet lines, etc. anytime you go on a boat. 

Bring sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and snacks or lunch (for all-day classes). MBAC has a water bottle refilling station and there are a number of restaurants nearby, but keep in mind that food and drink are not available for purchase at MBAC.

Parking can be a challenge at MBAC, especially during the summer months. Please visit our parking page for more information.

What's Next?

After completing this class students are eligible to take the written exam to obtain a US Sailing Basic Cruising Certification.

While Basic Cruising is the final class in the keelboat series at MBAC, there are many opportunities to continue sailing and learning after this course. 

We recommend Advanced Sailing if you want to become eligible to rent sailboats from MBAC. A private lesson is a good option if you have specific skills you would like to work on with an instructor. 

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