HOBIE CAT SAILING

What Will I Learn?

By the end of Hobie Cat Sailing you will be able to launch, rig, and sail a sloop-rigged beach catamaran as a skipper or crewmember. Topics covered include:

• Launching and rigging the Hobie Getaway
• Tacking techniques specific to beach catamarans
• Using apparent wind to increase performance
• Proper use of the traveler
• Crew overboard recovery 
• Catamaran capsize recovery
• Small boat communications and teamwork

Topics are introduced on land and then practiced on Mission Bay in a 16' Hobie Getaway catamaran. Upon successful completion of the class you will be qualified to rent the Hobie Getaway so you will be able to keep sailing and practicing your skills after the class ends. 

Is this the right class for me?

Hobie Sailing is one of two small boat sailing classes for students who have completed Advanced Sailing at MBAC. Hobie Sailing is the more popular option and is the right class if you want to become eligible to rent Hobie Getaways at MBAC.

If you have some sailing experience but have never taken a formal sailing class, we suggest starting with Basic Sailing. Our experience has shown that people who learn to sail informally often have gaps in their knowledge that are best addressed by completing an entry-level class.

Requirements

• Prerequisite: MBAC Advanced Sailing 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).

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. Sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended. Lifejackets are provided.

During this class you will practice capsize recoveries, which will involve getting into the water. This is usually done on the second day of the class but may move to the first day depending on conditions. Bring swimwear and a change of clothes to class each day. You may use a MBAC wetsuit for no additional charge while participating in this class.

Outside of the capsize recovery it is unlikely that you will end up in the water while sailing during this class. However, it is possible, so we recommend wearing clothes that can get wet at all times. It is likely that you will get a little bit wet from small splashes, handling wet lines, etc. anytime you are 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?

Upon successful completion of Hobie Sailing you will be qualified to rent Hobie Getaways at MBAC. 

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