As with much of the rest of our operation, we do things a bit differently here.  Rather than just sending you off on a 2 or 3-day trip for local bareboat training, we really send you to school.  Day 1 is strictly local, and you start working early on with the most difficult and intimidating aspect of "big boat stuff:" docking.  Maybe it sounds dull, but if you've ever contemplated leaving or landing on a dock in adverse conditions aboard a bigger yacht, with lots of other yachts watching, you'll appreciate our emphasis on this critical skill.

We don't neglect other skills, however.  You'll learn the essential boat systems and special gear and electronics found on charter fleet vessels, and you'll work on maneuvering confidently both under sail and power.  Troubleshooting, anchoring techniques, piloting & navigation, provisioning & cooking aboard, and fueling & fuel range issues are all covered.

Day 2 and 3 are a combination of skill training and an overnight trip to properly round out your education.  You'll feel confident stepping aboard a large, unfamiliar vessel and quickly making it feel like your own.  You'll not only have your Bareboat Charter certification, but you'll properly impress anyone doing a checkout on the vessel with you.

On our BVI trips, we combine a proper vacation with formal instruction over the course of a week.  Same for Greece, Italy, etc!
 

Prerequisites: ASA Basic Coastal Cruising or US Sailing Basic Cruising certification, or comparable experience.  Non-certified sailors are welcome to take the course, but cannot be certified unless they earn basic keelboat & cruising certification by taking the courses or  "challenging" the standard.
 
 

Certification Achieved: ASA Bareboat Charter 104 (also called Intermediate Coastal Cruising).
Curriculum: enough to require a separate page!