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:
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.
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.