Sailing is an exciting activity that combines adventure, technique and a deep respect for the sea. If you are already experienced in sailing, but want to improve your skills and knowledge, refresher courses are an excellent option. In this article, we will explore the benefits of these courses, what to expect from them and some popular options.

1. Why take a refresher course?

The advanced sailing courses are fully practical courses that are designed to help sailors acquire sailing techniques to generate automatisms and confidence in the student. Some reasons to consider one are:

• Skills Improvement: You will learn specific techniques such as docking, maneuvering, navigation in different weather conditions, to crew management in challenging conditions.
• Safety: Safety at sea is paramount. A refresher course will teach you how to handle emergency situations and make calm and considered decisions.
• Certification: Some courses combine practice and theory. They offer recognized certifications that can be useful if you want to work in the nautical sector or rent boats. This is unfortunately not the case for Spanish qualifications.

2. What to expect from a refresher course?

Advanced courses may vary in length and content, but generally include:

• Theory: Classes on meteorology, electronic navigation, and route planning. You will learn to interpret nautical charts and use modern tools.
• Practical: The practical part is fundamental. You will have the opportunity to apply what you have learned in a real environment, at sea. The ideal is to take the course on a coast that allows you to practice all the techniques that you will later use on board.
• Evaluation: Some courses include exams or practical evaluations to ensure that you have acquired the necessary skills.

3. Types of advanced training courses

There are different types of courses to suit your needs and level of experience: We divide them into courses to improve crew or skipper skills. Sailing in family, coastal or oceanic waters.

• Berth
• Monocoque refinement
• Catamaran training
• Coastal navigation
• Ocean Navigation
• Motor

4. Where to find advanced training courses

• Sailing Schools: Some sailing schools offer advanced programs. Investigate options in your area or in popular sailing destinations.
• Nautical Organizations: Schools approved by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) offer internationally recognized courses.

Conclusion

Advanced sailing courses are a valuable investment for any sailor looking to improve their skills and increase their confidence at sea. Whether you are looking for safety, certification or simply want to enjoy your passion for sailing more, there is a course that is right for you. Don’t hesitate to take the next step and take your sailing experience to the next level!

Refresher Courses Julio Verne Náutica

Ocean sailing is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences a sea lover can live. From the majesty of the waves to the vastness of the horizon, sailing the high seas offers a unique connection with nature. In this article, we will explore some key aspects of ocean sailing, from preparation to execution of an unforgettable voyage.

1. Preparation: The First Step to Adventure

Before setting sail, good preparation is essential. This includes:

• Check list of the boat: The equipment and revision of the boat. Before setting sail, familiarize yourself with your boat. Knowing the boat and checking where and how the key elements of the boat are located is essential for safe navigation when there is no possibility of external assistance.
• Route planning: It is not only necessary but mandatory to make a travel plan. In the travel plan we must include:
  • A pilotage plan for entry and exit at the ports of departure and arrival.
  • Meteorological analysis.
  • Route hazards.
  • Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA).
  • Nautical charts and navigation applications for safe and efficient routing.

2. Navigation Techniques

Ocean navigation combines both traditional and modern techniques. Some of the most important are:

• Astronomical Navigation. Use the stars and other celestial bodies to determine your position. This classic method is still fascinating and useful in case of technological failures… It does not depend on on-board power!
• GPS, plotter, Radar, AIS, GRIB files: Nowadays, we have electronic equipment that greatly facilitates navigation. Let’s use them to our advantage.

3. Safety at Sea

Safety is paramount in ocean sailing. Here are some tips:

• Safety Equipment: Always wear life jackets on deck, check that your mandatory safety equipment is complete and up to date with expiration dates.
• Communications: Again we are back to combining modern and classic devices:
  • Classics: Radio stations: VHF short range and long range SSB,
  • Modern: IRIDIUM (voice worldwide coverage), SATLINK (internet)
• First Aid Knowledge: Having basic first aid knowledge can be crucial in emergency situations.

4. Life on Board

Sailing is not only about getting to a destination, but also about enjoying the journey. Here are some things you can do on board:

• Cooking at sea: Experiment with simple recipes that you can prepare while sailing. Food tastes better when enjoyed overlooking the ocean.
• Marine wildlife watching: Keep your eyes open for dolphins, whales, birds and other sea creatures. Ocean life is one of the biggest surprises of sailing.
• Navigation guards: The night provides an incredible spectacle: the celestial sphere without light pollution.
• Relaxation and reflection: Take advantage of the time at sea to disconnect and reflect. The disconnection from everyday life on land that the ocean imposes can be very rejuvenating.
• Camaraderie: life on board 24 hours/day outside the comfort zone creates very strong and permanent bonds between crewmembers. Nothing like ocean voyages to help meet new people.

Conclusion

Ocean sailing is an adventure that offers freedom, challenge and beauty. With the right preparation and an adventurous spirit, you can create unforgettable memories at sea. So, pack your bag, choose your route and let’s set sail for adventure!

From Julio Verne Náutica, through our colleagues of the Asociación Náutica Navega, we offer you different oceanic programs for this 2025. What are you waiting for to know them?