Course 2

Day Skipper

This is for anyone who has completed the Competent Crew Course or has suitable previous sailing experience on a big boat. On completion of this course you should be able to skipper a yacht in coastal waters. You will learn basic navigation, rules of the road, anchoring, etc. but mainly you will take responsibility for organizing the yacht and its crew for short passage making. This certificate is accepted by Charter Companies.

The course consists of 5 sessions on Vanguard. She is a 45 feet sloop which has been modified to offer safe and comfortable sailing experiences to novice sailors. Her wide decks, with many hand-holds, ensures safe working. The cockpit is set up for efficient working of winches and sail trimming. Below decks there is air-conditioning, 2 toilets, galley and fridge, etc.

The Genoa has roller-furling to ease sail handling. The anchor is operated by electric windless and all the navigational equipment ensures safe passages.

Lunch is provided on board, as are soft drinks and the use of wet weather gear. All the required safety equipment is on board - life jackets, safety harnesses, etc.

The five sessions are spent mainly sailing the yacht. Theory of sailing is acquired along the way in order to maximise sailing experience. Topics covered will include steering, sail handling, sail trimming, tacking and gybing, man overboard, navigational exercises, a few knots and the vocabulary associated with these topics.

Safety is our main concern when sailing – this is emphasised in all manoeuvres. However we also like to have fun when sailing and many new friendships have been forged on Vanguard!

Please contact us about commencing your course. We sail most weekends and occasionally mid-week. It is necessary to confirm your attendance before the weekend – usually by email to info@yachtingventures.com