"REQUIREMENTS TO SAIL"
We do want you to have the
opportunity to learn as much as you can while aboard Bel Ami, but we don't have
classes, requirements, and exams. We are pretty informal and practice the
see-one, do-one method of teaching. Our charterers are usually on
vacation, as well as trying to learn, so we are anything but rigorous!
Ask questions, be ambitious, and pitch in wherever you
have interest, be it planning the itinerary, piloting the boat, preparing the
food, cleaning or maintenance.
Below are some of the subjects we like to see people gain experience with
and what we consider important for your safety and enjoyment.
 | Plan the cruise within the limits of your time and your capabilities. We stress that getting to the most number of islands is not usually what makes a successful cruise. |
| Get to know the vessel on which you are sailing. Understanding the basic operating systems, its limitations and care will make "life" aboard less stressful and more comfortable and possibly make your spouse more receptive to sailing again! |
| Don't take chances with anything or any situation. Safety and conservation should not only be your politics, but your rule of thumb when dealing with your boat, how you rig, navigate, prepare, care and sail. |
| Sailing and cruising can be more than just boating up and down the channels. The ocean is a marvelous ecosystem. Snorkeling, beach combing, and learning about plants and animals are wonderful natural world pursuits you can explore. We like to be observant with nature. We too, however, must admit we are captivated by the island culture. We enjoy the little shops, restaurants, and watering holes. I find the people fascinating (even the tourists). |
I have spent many years cruising in the Virgin Islands and have
experienced a lot of varied activities. If you have certain interests,
talk about them. We may have just what you are looking for.
Having said that, our ambition is still to get you out on the water every day and get you comfortable in those Virgin Islands cruising grounds.