Skipper training

Mooring and casting off in narrow marinas is the biggest stress factor for many aspiring skippers – and this is exactly where we come in. In our skipper training, we take a lot of time for the supreme discipline: maneuvering in the tightest of spaces. We practise reverse parking ("Roman Catholic") until you get the hang of it and know exactly how to use the wheel effect (screw effect) to your advantage instead of fighting against it. You will learn how to handle mooring lines safely, how to steam into the spring and how to keep calm in crosswinds and bring your boat safely into the box. Your experienced trainer will be right by your side, giving you calm commands and correcting you constructively so that you gain more confidence maneuver by maneuver. The aim is for you to remain cool and in control of your yacht by the end of the week, even in stressful situations and under the gaze of other crews ("harbor cinema"). We simulate various scenarios so that you are well prepared for your first charter.

A good skipper can not only steer, but also lead his crew with overview and competence. This training is therefore about much more than just maneuvering: we train your eye for the "big picture". This includes daily trip planning, taking into account detailed weather reports, safe navigation with charts and plotters and the correct assessment of dangerous situations. A central point is safety training: we practice the "man overboard" maneuver (MOB) intensively under sail and engine so that every move is right in an emergency. You will also learn how to instruct your crew – which often consists of friends or family – correctly, distribute tasks and give clear, calm instructions even in critical moments. We discuss topics such as reefing, anchoring in crowded bays and motor skills. By the end of the week, you will not only be more technically proficient, but also feel mentally prepared to take responsibility for the boat and crew.