Own Yacht Sail Tuition programme in Antigua - modular learn to sail course for novices in the Caribbean
Own Yacht Training
What a wonderful concept, buying a yacht, stepping off the treadmill, and seeing the world through the relaxed eyes of a Cruising Sailor.
It is possible, and many have attempted it; some successfully, and some not so successfully. However, we can all get carried away with our dreams and overlook the fundamental question: "How we are actually going to realise the dream, and sustain it"?
There are 3 steps:
- Ensure your budget not only covers the capital, and purchasing costs of your yacht, but still leaves sufficient funds for running costs in the absence of a regular income.
- Thoroughly research the type of yacht you will need in terms of accommodation, maintenance costs, ease of handling, and sea worthiness in intended cruising areas. There are many more factors too numerous to mention here.
- Make sure you are completely familiar with your final choice of yacht in terms of systems, handling, engineering, and maintenance.
Steps 1 & 2 are largely a matter of personal circumstances and preference. Step 3 is where the Miramar Sailing "Own Yacht Tuition" program comes in.
Own Yacht Tuition
We offer a series of daily modules designed to assist with the understanding of your yacht, and how it works. Some modules may not be relevant subject to your previous experience; therefore it may not be necessary to undertake them all.
Module 1: Sail Handling - Rigging; hoisting; trimming; stowing; maintenance.
Module 2: Yacht Handling under Power - Manoeuvring; docking; buoy pick-up; anchoring; rope work.
Module 3: Yacht Handling under Sail - Beating; reaching; downwind; spinnaker pole; berthing; anchoring / buoy pick-up; steering a course; passage making.
Module 4: Engines & Drive Systems - How they work; fault finding; maintenance; transmission; propellers.
Module 5: Yacht Systems & Equipment - Electrical; refrigeration; fresh water; marine toilets; stowage; safety; communications; corrosion.
Module 6: Navigation - Chart work; navigation equipment; position fixing; compasses; GPS; auto pilots; wind vanes.
Module 7: Passage Preparation - Route planning; pilotage; provisioning; cooking; customs & immigration; spare parts.
All modules are taught by our experienced and qualified RYA Instructors, and include illustrated teaching materials.
Each Module is charged at US$300 per yacht owner & crew. If required, travel to your location is an additional charge, and it is assumed accommodation would be on board your yacht.
"Please thank Pippa very much indeed for her time at the weekend. It has clearly achieved what I set out to do. If you could let her know that when we left Jolly today and I helmed the boat to berth on the fuel dock and took her off again. Witnessed by another Miramar skipper! We are now back in Falmouth and I weaved through the other yachts to find a spot near the Cat Club and anchored on the second attempt as we did not hold the first time. Huge progress. Thank you for giving me the confidence. I am delighted and now just have to keep at it. Warmest wishes"
Amanda