Step Four: Advanced Sailing (Racing & Cruising)

Classes last two weeks and run for eight weeks each summer at the Charlestown site only. Students are permitted to enroll in up to two sessions.

Dream of venturing beyond the harbor and setting forth on the ocean blue? Or maybe you love the heart-pounding thrill of the race? The Step 4 classes are the next stopping point for those sailors who have mastered the basics, possess solid boathandling, and want to perfect their skills in Racing or Cruising... or both!

Prerequisites: 12-years-old by the beginning of class AND satisfactory completion of Step 3: Intermediate Sailing or equivalent AND passing the Intermediate Sailing Test (offered on Fridays during the summer).

IMPORTANT: Intermediate and Advanced Sailing classes are only for experienced sailors who are comfortable sailing without an instructor in the boat. Please check prerequisites carefully before registering. If you are unsure about which class is appropriate for your child please call the office. 

Racing 

This course teaches students the rules, techniques and strategies of dinghy and keelboat racing, as well as enables more advanced students to hone their skills and proudly represent the COURAGEOUS name as they compete against other clubs in local and national regattas. 

• Train with our US Sailing certified staff on our 420s and J/22s 
  
• Attend lessons led by our world-class guest coaches
  
• Put your skills to the test as you compete against other top sailors from across the region at local and national regattas, including Courageous' R19 Junior National Championships.
  

Cruising

This course gives advanced students a chance to get out of the inner harbor and explore the islands and surrounding waters of Massachusetts Bay through a combination of day-trips and overnight voyages. Students will be taught concepts and skills, including: navigation, GPS plotting, engine use, anchoring, weather forecasting, and passage plan development and execution.

• Learn to navigate the Boston Harbor Islands, read charts, anchor, and other nautical skills
  
• Experience the freedom and excitement of navigating an island journey
  
• Anchor, secure your boat, and set up camp for a night under the stars