March 2015 Coastal Navigation Course

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:  The March 2015 Coastal Navigation Course is required for Sail Chicago members who intend to register for Bareboat Cruising Courses this summer. It is also open to other Sail Chicago members who have a desire to learn coastal navigation. Those who wish to enroll in the on-the-water Bareboat Cruising Course need to be Cruising skippers.  

WHAT IS TAUGHT:  In this course, students learn to identify chart symbols and their corresponding visual observations; define true and magnetic compass readings and application of variation and deviation; plot course and position; calculate time/speed/distance; take bearings and fixes; adjust for set and drift; and, plot danger fixes.  Students work at a table with charts, dividers and parallel rulers.  The instructor will present a topic and students will complete exercises using the charts and plotting equipment at their tables.  

Aids to navigation and rules of the road are covered in a pre-class assignment through a free on-line course, Nautical Know-How Basic Boating Safety Course at http://boatsafe.com.

WHEN:  Coastal Navigation is conducted on three half-days at REI on March 21 from 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M, March 22 from 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. and March 28 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.

INSTRUCTION:  The instructor is Bob Lapin, who in the past year has successfully completed the requirements for the U.S. Coast Guard OUPC Captain's License.  Experienced coaches will be positioned at each table to assist participants.

REGISTRATION: Click on this link above to register.

What’s Included: U.S. Sailing's Coastal Navigation textbook

Cost: $125.