3 Credits 45 Contact Hours (Lecture)

The Basic Seamanship course consists of both theoretical and practical modules and gives a basic understanding of the knowledge that is required to be an active crew member on board a Yacht either power or sail. More advanced modules are aimed at increasing a students' nautical knowledge sufficiently to be a watchkeeper on board a bareboat Yacht, or a flotilla skipper in fair weather, in daylight hours within sight of land.

Students will become a safe boaters and be prepared to meet boating challenges. With this knowledge they will have a life-long source of recreation with safe, environmentally friendly activities. Specific objectives include the fundamentals of small boat handling, chart reading, rules of the road, rigging, safety and regulations.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will possess the knowledge and ability to...

• Navigate a modern sea-going sailing vessel, using both traditional and modern methods
• Understand and be prepared for possible safety considerations related to ocean voyaging
• Show full understanding of world weather patterns, including ways to forecast and route for weather while voyaging
• Operate, understand, and maintain all shipboard equipment, including the auxiliary propulsion systems, electronics and sailing gear

For the complete course syllabus and overview, please download the Sea|mester Student Handbook.