West Marine Offshore Sailing Symposiums

March 8-9, 2002, Annapolis, MD and April 12-13, 2003 Newport, RI.

We hope you will join us for this 2-day, intensive workshop that will help you turn those bluewater dreams into reality.

In two fully packed days, we will outline specific steps needed from the preparation phase to the completion of a long offshore passage. Our panel of experts will share tips and practical advice, drawing from thousands of miles at sea, and no question will go unanswered.

The West Marine Offshore Sailing Symposium has been shaped by the experiences of over 800 skippers and crews in our Caribbean 1500 and other events. This curriculum is designed to present a balanced, accurate view of what passagemaking is all about.

Just two sessions will be offered in 2003, and class size is limited to the first 70 entries, so grab your crew and come! Choose one of three easy ways to register: call us, mail, or print & fax entry form on our website. All info is below.

Symposium includes:

• Lectures from 9-5 Saturday, 9-4 Sunday


• Course reference notes


• Continental breakfasts both days


• Luncheons both days


• Certificate of course completion

• Equipping your boat for offshore passages


• Sail selection and sail trim - focusing on long-term cruising needs


• Weather and weather information sources


• Planning ahead for heavy weather


• Heavy weather techniques


• Understanding the Gulf Stream


• Proper use of safety gear


• Using your HAM or SSB radio


• Latest onboard e-mail and satellite communications


• Onboard preventive maintenance


• Troubleshooting your diesel or (same time frame)


• Provisioning, meal planning, life onboard


• Watchkeeping schedules


• Making landfalls in new places


• Medical preparedness and coping with emergencies


• Making emergency repairs


• Overcoming fear and anxiety

Entry Information