Advanced Cruising and Seamanship
A comprehensive series of four online classes, delving into seamanship essentials to help elevate your sailing expertise.
Embark on a comprehensive journey through crucial seamanship principles essential for cruising proficiency. From understanding the intricacies of weather patterns to mastering advanced navigation techniques and sail trim, each live series is designed to equip sailors with the practical knowledge and skills needed to navigate confidently in various conditions.
Bill Gladstone is a great instructor who explains everything clearly and gives practical examples. I learned a lot of new skills and strategies that I can apply to my sailing. Highly recommended!
I enjoyed this online course very much. Bill Gladstone is an experienced sailor and a wonderful teacher. He covers all the essential topics and also shares his own stories and tips from his cruising adventures. I feel more confident and prepared for my next cruising trip.
WHO IS THIS CLASS FOR?
Ideal for sailing enthusiasts of all levels, from novices looking to embark on their first coastal cruise to seasoned sailors aiming to refine their skills. Whether you're seeking to enhance your seamanship knowledge, boost confidence in handling various sailing scenarios, or simply aspire to enjoy safer and more fulfilling voyages, this course is tailored to meet your needs. With a focus on practical learning and real-world problem-solving, participants will emerge equipped with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate open waters with confidence and ease.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
This online class will offer a comprehensive array of seamanship topics - covering everything from understanding weather patterns and their impact on sailing to mastering advanced navigation techniques using both traditional and modern electronic methods. Gain valuable insights into safety protocols and emergency procedures to develop the skills necessary to handle challenging situations with confidence. Through these live interactive lessons and exercises, students will develop the crucial knowledge essential for successful coastal and open-water cruising.
TOPICS COVERED
SESSION 1
UPWIND SAIL TRIM
Navigating upwind, against the prevailing forces, showcases the pinnacle of sailing and sail design. In this dedicated session on upwind trim, we will dive into the foundations of sailing upwind while covering sail trim techniques. Learn how to sail upwind swiftly and efficiently while uncovering the nuances of optimal sail shape. Learn how to effectively utilize both the mainsail and jib to unlock peak performance while refining performance in varying air densities. We'll also explore advanced strategies that can help enhance auto-helm functionality and efficiency.
SESSION 2
DOWNWIND SAIL TRIM
The majority of our cruising endeavors involve reaching. If not, perhaps it's time to consider an alternative destination! In this session, we will turn our focus to learning the effective deployment and ideal trim of gennakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and symmetric spinnakers when reaching or running. Additionally, we will explore the correct application of whisker poles for jib and mainsail handling, alongside insights into Code sails and furling systems.
SESSIONS 3 & 4
MARINE WEATHER
With the constant expansion of weather information sources and technology, staying informed is paramount. In this comprehensive session, we'll uncover valuable insights into selecting optimal weather sources tailored to your needs and requirements. Learn to merge personal observations with forecast data to craft localized weather predictions, empowering you to plan and strategize your passages and routes effectively.
CRUISING AND SEAMANSHIP
Cruising encompasses a multitude of skills beyond sailing alone, from navigation to engine maintenance and everything in between. In this final session, we will explore a myriad of challenges that may arise during your cruising endeavors. Topics will include safety protocols, mastering essential knots, anchoring techniques, storm management strategies, reefing procedures, and more. Finally, we will cover practical solutions and problem-solving approaches to ensure your cruising experiences are safe and successful.
Embark on your cruising adventures with confidence and enthusiasm, armed with a wealth of knowledge, invaluable tips, and expert tricks learned during this Advanced Cruising and Seamanship online series.
YOUR HOST
BILL GLADSTONE
Director of Education, North U
Bill Gladstone is the Director of the North U Performance Division of American Sailing. He is the author and creator of books, seminars, online classes, and clinics. Bill’s racing experience covers the spectrum, including everything from dinghies to maxis, ponds to oceans, and foredeck to helm. Bill has been teaching sailing and racing for over forty years throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Graduates of his seminars and clinics number in the tens of thousands. They are winning races and cruising with confidence the world over.
