5 WAYS TO EDUCATE YOURSELF

Use the cold months to improve your knowledge of all things nautical

Take an Online Sailing Course

Nauticed (nauticed.com), the American Sailing Association (asa.com) and US Sailing (ussailing.org) all offer online sailing courses that take you through the theory of sailing and navigation. These are a great way to start the season sharpened up and ready for anything.

Can’t tell a hitch from a bend? All you need is an armchair, a tumbler of your favorite tipple, a short length of line and a copy of The Ashley Book of Knots. You’ll soon be amazing your crew with your knot-tying prowess.

Learn to Love Your Engine

Take an in-depth online course in diesel engine know-how with Boaters University (boatersuniversity.com). You’ll learn how to maintain your engine and troubleshoot common problems. Heck, you may never have to call for a tow again.

Sew What?

Price out the cost of replacement cushions and covers for your boat, and when you’ve picked yourself off the floor, check out Sailrite’s (sailrite.com) inventory of do-it-yourself projects and kits, complete with excellent instructions. Save money and learn a valuable new skill—what could be better?

Get a Six-Pack

Sorry, not that kind. Take a classroom or online course for the OUPV/6-Pack Captain’s License, and you’ll be able to take out up to six paying passengers. Plus you’ll have learned a lot.