Description
Discover how our comprehensive training program equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to confidently navigate and skipper inshore waters.
- Master the art of coastal navigation and sailing techniques, starting from the basics and progressing to advanced skills.
- Learn essential seamanship practices, including sail handling, anchoring, and docking, to become a capable and confident skipper.
- Acquire a deep understanding of marine safety protocols, weather patterns, and emergency procedures, ensuring you can handle challenging situations at sea.
- Gain the necessary knowledge to plan and execute coastal passages, navigate using charts and electronic devices, and make informed decisions for a successful sailing adventure.
- Create unforgettable memories and have a blast with our friendly and experienced instructors.
Course description
Embark on an exciting sailing adventure with our Inshore Skipper Course. Designed for aspiring sailors, this comprehensive program will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate coastal waters confidently. From mastering the art of sail handling to understanding weather patterns and safety protocols, this course covers a wide range of essential topics to transform you into a competent and qualified skipper. Join us and discover the thrill of sailing while immersing yourself in a learning experience that will leave you well-prepared to navigate the seas with confidence and expertise.
The minimal standard of Inshore Skipper Certificate
Theoretical
Taking over a vessel: Hull and rig checks, machinery and systems checks, instrument checks, safety equipment checks
Meteorology: Sources of information, personal observation, weather patterns, sea and land breezes, cloud types and formations, precipitation and fog
Pilotage and passage planning: Pilot books, almanacs and information sources, passage planning considerations, navigating a coastal passage, passage strategy, port regulations, pilotage plans
Vessel handling: Anchoring mooring and MOB, berthing and leaving a berth, handling in confined areas with and against cross currents
Chartwork: Review of position fixing and running fixes, course to steer to counteract a current, effect of tide and plotting the effect of tides and currents
Collision Regulations: Review of collision regulations, lights, sound and shapes, application of the regulations
Practical
Vessel Check-out: Hull and rig checks, machinery and systems checks, instrument checks, safety equipment checks, fuel and water capacity
Responsibilities of Captain/Skipper: Communication with crew, delegation of crew seamanship general deck work, ropes, knots and splices, care and use of lines
Vessel Handling: Anchoring, mooring and MOB, berthing and leaving a birth, handling in confined areas, handling with and against cross currents.
About the inshore skipper license:
At our sailing school, we proudly collaborate with three prestigious systems to provide you with the highest quality education and certifications. We offer courses recognized by NauticEd, ISSA (The International Sailing Schools Association), and the Bulgarian National System. With these esteemed partnerships, we ensure that you receive comprehensive training and obtain recognized qualifications that will set you on a successful sailing journey.
NauticEd International Sailing Education (USA)
Executive agency “Maritime Administration”
International ISSA inshore skipper license
The International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) license is a prestigious recognition of your experience and qualifications in the world of sailing. By obtaining the Inshore Skipper license, you demonstrate your ability to manage a yacht in coastal waters, opening up a wide range of opportunities at sea.
Graduates of the courses receive the Inshore Skipper license and optionally can obtain the VHF SRC license from the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA).
These licenses are recognized by leading charter and insurance companies.
What the certificate allows:
• Operating a vessel up to 78 feet/24 meters in length.
• In coastal waters up to 20 miles from shore.
• In good conditions with moderate wind and sea state.
Training and certification mean more than just confidence on the water. Earning a sailor’s qualification offers numerous benefits, including personal development and adventure, safety on the water, career opportunities, and the ability to rent boats.
• You will be able to enjoy the freedom of renting boats worldwide with a recognized sailor’s qualification.
• Gain confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of accomplishment through sailing certification.
• Learn essential safety protocols and navigation methods to ensure exciting sailing experiences.
• Open doors to various sailing-related professions, from deckhand to yacht captain.
Course Schedule for ISSA Inshore Skipper at Good Captain
Our course is designed to be flexible, accommodating various schedules while providing comprehensive training through 14 engaging sessions.
Session 1: Introduction and Safety Basics
We begin the course with an introduction to sailing and important safety protocols, providing a solid foundation for all future lessons.
Sessions 2-4: Sail Theory and Terminology
Delve deeper into the theory of sailing, learn about different types of sails, points of sail, and master the terminology that will define your navigation.
Sessions 5-6: Navigation and Chart Reading
Discover the art of navigation and develop your chart-reading skills. Learn how to interpret nautical charts and effectively use various navigation tools.
Sessions 7-8: Wind Awareness and Sailing Techniques
Explore the nuances of wind and its impact on sailing. Learn how to adjust sails, handle different wind conditions, and use advanced sailing techniques.
Sessions 9-10: Boat Handling and Maneuvers
Practice boat handling skills, including tacking, jibing, and docking maneuvers. Enhance your ability to manage the vessel confidently and precisely.
Sessions 11-12: Weather and Meteorology
Learn about weather conditions and how they can affect your sailing experience. Understand how to interpret weather forecasts, identify potential hazards, and make informed decisions.
Sessions 13-14: Anchoring and Emergency Procedures
Master the art of safely and effectively anchoring a vessel. Additionally, gain knowledge of emergency procedures to be prepared for unforeseen situations on the water.
On board, you'll need the following:
- Closed-toe shoes for comfortable movement around the deck.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, headgear.
- Sport or specialized marine gloves for hand protection and good grip.
- Soft bags for convenient storage of personal items. Remember, there’s limited space on board for hard suitcases, so soft bags are recommended.
FAQ
What are the dates to start a course?
Our courses offer flexible start dates to accommodate your schedule. We have regular course intakes every Saturday, providing you with convenient options to begin your sailing journey. Additionally, we understand that individual circumstances may require different scheduling arrangements. Therefore, we are also open to adjusting the course dates to meet your specific needs. Whether you prefer weekend courses or weekday sessions, we strive to create a learning experience that works best for you. Contact us to discuss your preferred start date and let’s embark on this exciting sailing adventure together.
How long does it take?
The duration of our Inshore Skipper Course can vary depending on individual progress and availability. Typically, the course can be completed within one to two weeks, encompassing a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. However, we understand that everyone learns at their own pace, and we are dedicated to providing a flexible learning environment. If you require a more tailored schedule, we can adjust the course duration to accommodate your needs. Whether you prefer an intensive program or a more relaxed learning experience spread over a few weeks, we are committed to ensuring that you receive the proper training to become a confident Inshore Skipper.
How much hours we are at the sea?
At our sailing school, we prioritize individual progress and skill development rather than focusing on specific timeframes. Our Inshore Skipper Course is designed to ensure that each student attains a confident level of proficiency in the required skills. The duration of the course may vary depending on the number of participants on board during training sessions. With smaller groups, the learning process can be more efficient, allowing for a quicker progression. Conversely, with larger groups, additional time may be needed to ensure that every student achieves the desired level of confidence in their skills. We believe in prioritising individual progress, providing personalised attention, and creating a supportive learning environment to ensure that each participant receives the necessary training to become a competent Inshore Skipper.
Do you provide an accommodation on board?
While we don’t provide accommodation on board, we strive to make our courses more intensive and cost-effective for our participants. To achieve this, we often combine individuals into smaller groups, allowing for a more personalized and engaging learning experience. By creating these smaller groups, we can focus on providing individual attention and ensuring that each participant receives quality training. Additionally, this approach helps to optimize the course duration and maximize the value for our students. We understand the importance of making sailing education accessible and affordable, and our commitment is to deliver exceptional training while keeping the costs reasonable.
Does your licenses allows me to charter a boat upon successful graduation?
Yes, upon successful graduation and obtaining the appropriate license, you will have the necessary qualifications to charter a boat. Our licenses are recognized and respected within the sailing community, enabling you to confidently charter a boat and embark on your own sailing adventures. Whether you aspire to explore coastal waters or set sail on exciting voyages, our courses are designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed to navigate with confidence. Join us and unlock the freedom to embark on unforgettable sailing experiences as a qualified skipper.
Do I need to take an additional exam?
For NauticEd and ISSA courses, there is no additional exam required beyond the assessments conducted within our school. Upon successful completion of the course and meeting the necessary criteria, you will receive the respective certification from NauticEd or ISSA without the need for an external exam.
However, for the national courses, such as the Bulgarian Maritime Administration “Master of vessels up to 40GT” course, an additional exam is required at the maritime administration. This exam ensures compliance with the specific regulations and requirements set by the maritime authorities. Our instructors will guide you through the necessary steps and provide support and guidance if you choose to pursue the national certification.
Rest assured that we will provide you with all the information and guidance needed to understand the examination requirements based on the course you select. Our aim is to ensure a smooth and straightforward process for obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications to pursue your sailing ambitions.
Can I take theory online?
Yes, we offer the flexibility of taking the theory portion of the course online. Our comprehensive online program allows you to study and learn at your own pace, from the comfort of your own home or any location with an internet connection. Through our user-friendly online platform, you will have access to interactive lessons, engaging multimedia content, and quizzes to test your understanding of the theoretical concepts.
This online learning option provides convenience and flexibility, allowing you to fit the theory portion of the course into your schedule. Once you have completed the online theory component, you will be ready to apply your knowledge during the practical sessions conducted on the water. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the practical aspects of sailing, ensuring a well-rounded and hands-on learning experience.
With our blended learning approach, you can enjoy the benefits of both online theory and practical training, providing you with a comprehensive sailing education that prepares you for real-world sailing adventures.
Does theory course completion make me eligible to obtain a license?
Simply completing the theory course is not sufficient to obtain a license. Practical exercises and hands-on training are integral components of the licensing process. These practical sessions provide you with the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained in the theory course and develop the necessary skills to become a proficient sailor.
During the practical sessions, you will participate in various sailing exercises, such as maneuvering the boat, handling sails, practicing navigation techniques, and conducting safety procedures. The practical training allows you to gain confidence and proficiency in real-world sailing scenarios under the guidance of our experienced instructors.
It is important to complete both the theory and practical components of the course to meet the requirements for obtaining your license. Our comprehensive program ensures that you receive a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ultimately preparing you for the responsibilities and challenges of sailing.
What makes your "Master of Vessels up to 40GT" national course different from any other school?
Our “Master of Vessels up to 40GT” national course may have a higher cost compared to other schools due to the unique emphasis we place on practical training. While other schools may primarily focus on meeting the minimum requirements set by the national standards, we go above and beyond to ensure that you receive comprehensive and practical sailing education.
Our practical training is designed to prepare you for real-world sailing experiences, allowing you to confidently charter a boat and navigate coastal waters with safety and enjoyment. We prioritize hands-on experience, teaching you essential sailing skills, maneuvering techniques, navigation strategies, and safety procedures that go beyond the shallow requirements of the national standard.
By investing in our course, you are not only meeting the minimum qualifications but gaining the skills and confidence needed to embark on exciting sailing adventures. Our aim is to provide you with a robust and immersive learning experience that equips you with the knowledge and practical abilities to sail safely, have fun, and fully enjoy the freedom of exploring the seas.
