During the three day intensive sailing program, the aim is to teach attendees the basic skills and knowledge of sailing. This program includes the following: theoretical and practical part of teaching (meteorology, nautical charts, on sailing boats in general, maneuvering engine, sailing on default route, changing direction according to the wind...).
This 3-day weekend sailing course is designed for beginners or those with basic sailing knowledge. The goal of the course is to teach the essential skills and foundational knowledge needed to become an effective yacht crew member. By the end of the program, participants will complete the ISSA Yacht Crew certification.
Prerequisites:
No prior sailing experience required
Minimum age: 16 years old
Suggested course duration: 20 hours (minimum 3 days)
Yacht Construction:
Understand the basic parts of a yacht and their functions:
Cockpit, Bilge, Heads, Galley, Bow, Stern, Boom, Mast, Rigging, Haulyards
Operate essential yacht systems:
Toilet, Gas oven, Sink, Shower
Refuel and refill water and diesel tanks
Operate the inboard engine (start, stop, check cooling system, pre-start inspection)
Line and Spring Handling:
Combine lines of the same or different diameters
Tie essential knots:
Bowline, Fisherman’s Bend, Fasten a line to a cleat, Coil mooring lines
Handle mooring lines:
Hand over, Take, Make fast on cleats, Let go
Sail Handling:
Set and strike sails
Reef sails and shake out reefs
Fender Handling:
Secure fenders with the proper knots
Maneuver the fenders effectively
Anchor Operation:
Prepare the anchor for weighing
Operate the windlass (let out and take in chain)
Dinghy Operation:
Safely deploy and retrieve the dinghy
Secure the dinghy to the yacht
Use paddles effectively
Safety Skills:
Move safely around the deck
Use safety equipment (life vests, harnesses)
Operate distress signaling equipment (pyrotechnics, mirrors, flags, etc.)
Use firefighting equipment (fire extinguishers, blankets)
Make distress signals using at least four methods
Other Skills:
Observe and communicate information about the sailing area (e.g., direction and distance to objects)
Understand navigation lights on your yacht at night
Signal appropriately in foggy conditions
Effectively handle the helm
Arrival: Thursday evening or Friday morning – Get acquainted with your instructor, accommodation, and course schedule.
Course Start: Friday morning – The program begins with theory classes, followed by sailing from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with breaks for lunch and swimming.
Daily Routine: Each day will follow a similar structure:
Morning: Wake up, breakfast, theory session
Day: Sailing with breaks for lunch and swimming
Evening: Dinner and debrief
Course End: Sunday afternoon – Completion of the program, certification, and a final debrief.
This course is ideal for beginners or anyone who wants to refresh their basic sailing knowledge and skills. You’ll gain the confidence to handle various yacht operations and enjoy the freedom of the open water in a safe and structured environment.
Continuing education and training: ISSA Inshore Skipper, Advanced Sailing and Racing Skills, Offshore and Regatta Courses.
PRICES, DATES AND AVAILABILITY