Education

Navigate in open waters without a GPS with the ‘EZ Sextant’ app. The phone’s camera is used to take sightings of the sun, moon, Venus, or Mars. The sighting results are automatically plotted on your device as running fixes, no sextant skills required. You can also use your sextant and take advantage of the built-in almanac and plotting tools. Mike will demonstrate the app and cover some celestial navigation and GPS basics.

presented by Michael Novey developer of EZ Sextant

Is racing to Bermuda on your Bucket List?  Come visit with past A2B Racers Beth Berry, skipper of KYRIE and Albert Bossar, Skipper of ALLEGIANT.  These experienced offshore Captains are ready to share their experiences and answer all questions on this unique race to Bermuda—the only international race which departs from the Chesapeake Bay!

In addition, both skippers offer a unique perspective as they were both part of the Organizing Authority for the 2024 Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race.  Whether a trip to Bermuda is a long time Bucket List item, or a new idea,  please join for this exciting and engaging presentation.

presented by Beth Berry & Albert Bossar

Buying a cruising sailing catamaran offers several notable benefits:

1. Stability
2. Space
3. Shallow Draft
4. Performance
5. Reduced Heeling
6. Safety
7. Efficiency
8. Versatility

Overall, a cruising sailing catamaran combines comfort, performance, and practicality, making it an appealing choice for long-term cruising and living aboard.

presented by Jeff Grossman & Jean Levine of TwoCanSail

One of the simplest knots to learn is the bowline and it is one of the knots few boat operators do correctly and for the right purpose.  Learn from the Carey’s about some simple knot tying as well as which knot can be used in an emergency for the safety of the boat and crew.  Short segments of line will be provided to practice with during the seminar which is a great seminar for all members of the family.

presented by Ben & Teresa Carey of Morse Alpha Expeditions

Ever wonder what it’s like to sail across an ocean?  Hear what the crew of Serene (2023 Excess 14, #11) did to prepare and more importantly how we operated a brand-new cruising catamaran and successfully managed through issues like weather for an exciting 3000nm crossing from the Canary Islands to Saint Lucia, a route Christopher Columbus similarly sailed twice.  Learn about power management, crew watch rotations, sail plan selection, fishing with handlines, and much more.  The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, the popular annual cruising event, is held every November.

presented by Captain James Lee

Do you look at the sailboats finishing in front of the Eastport Bridge and think, “I wish I was out there, but I don’t know the first thing about racing?”  Join lifelong racer and Annapolis Sailing School director Ian Morrison as he walks you through a typical sailboat race.  He will then discuss what makes a good crew: how to read the water, where your weight needs to be and the importance of a positive attitude.

presented by Ian Morrison of Annapolis Sailing School

Almost 200 years ago, the Erie Canal opened the doors of inland America to the ocean. That door remains open providing an easy journey to and from the ocean for cruisers. Adventure awaits cruisers on the Great Loop or out the St. Lawrence on the Down East Circle Route. Between the ocean and Lake Ontario are 30 locks separating the sweet water cruising of inland America and the ocean. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River are worthy grounds for the diehard cruiser to explore. This course will focus on the gateway to sweet water cruising and include planning for the trip, preparing the boat for the canal, locking, and resources along the way.

presented by Dave Lochner

Rich will conduct a review of current water maker technology and options for Cruisers.  From high output AC 120v systems to the latest in energy efficient 12v DC Systems.  Pros and Cons of the available systems will be review to give cruisers a better understanding of how the technology works and help them select a water technology type that best fits their cruising style and budget.

presented by Rich Boren of CruiseRO

When leaving port in your boat, common sense and pre-planning will keep you safe whether you chose to cruise the bay, the Caribbean, or beyond.

• Know the area’s threat risk
• File a float plan
• Prepare & practice a plan with crew in the event there are unwanted visitors
• Know the cruising grounds, do your research, and keep a list of the official’s contact information, ie: local police, USCG, Embassy
• When farther abroad, methods of contact – Starlink/Satellite phone/tracking device

presented by James Deater of T3 Intelligence Services

We all face risks and emergencies in our lives. Sometime we depend on emergency response professionals when we are at Home, Work, Public places, or traveling. When we get on a yacht and go boating those risks and emergencies get more complicated!!! A moving boat is unstable, First response takes much longer… Missing medications can’t be “bought” if left at home… Your guests and crew are YOUR RESPONSIBILITY and you want to be ready for all outcomes. This lecture will provide awareness and specific methods of addressing and reducing personal risks when you let go of the lines to go and enjoy boating.

presented by Efraim Schwartz & Ariel Fabian of Sail N’ Cruise – sailncruise.com

Yacht Captain and Marine Surveyor tells the story of an abandon ship in the middle of the South Pacific after a large whale struck his Kelly Peterson 44. Expect to learn what was done right, what could have been done better, and what almost went horribly wrong. Is there a hot spot for South Pacific whale strikes that you should be aware of?

presented by Captain Rick Rodriguez

presented by Russell Goedjen of Shelter Bay Marina

presented by Young Cruisers Association

This class is for all sailors looking to bring people out on the water for their first time. The class will begin with how to introduce the boat/sailing to the new crew and progress to some drills/activities used by instructors.

presented by Jonah Lane from Annapolis Sailing School

An electric motor is very different from a diesel engine and will greatly change the way that you cruise full time or part time. We will discuss the merits and challenges of this big decision.

presented by Herb & Maddie Benavent of The Rigging Doctor

Sailor and author David Gendell discusses and signs his latest book, “The Last Days of the Schooner America,” a deeply-researched account of the iconic yacht for which the America’s Cup is named.

presented by David Gendell

Join us in the seminar tent to celebrate Pam Wall’s enduring love for sailing and her profound impact on our community.

She inspired many with her adventurous spirit, skill, and dedication to the water. This informal gathering at the Annapolis Boat Show is an opportunity for friends and fellow sailors to come together, share stories, and remember how she touched our lives, both on and off the water.

While her official memorial will be held later, this tribute gives us a chance to honor Pam Wall in the environment she loved. Whether you bring a memory, a photo, or simply your presence, we’ll gather to celebrate her legacy and the inspiration she brought to so many.

Additionally, Pam’s celebration of life will be held at Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, Coconut Grove, FL, on December 11, 2024, at 4pm. To RSVP, please get in touch with Jay Wall at Admin@pamwall.com

For many cruisers sailing to the Caribbean and visiting exotic islands,is a lifelong dream.  The Salty Dawg Sailing Association, a not-for-profit educational organization, provides cruisers with the skills and support to prepare for and complete a blue water passage.

The primary rally runs from Hampton VA or Newport RI to Antigua with nearly 100 boats heading south each season.

Learn more about why Antigua, our primary destination, is called the “sailing capital of the Caribbean” and what it is like to make landfall in Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bob Osborn, President of SDSA, Rally Director and port officer for Antigua,  will detail the support available to help you prepare for a safe and fun passage, including our free mentoring program and dozens of webinars each season that are available to all members.  He will also share what it is like to cruise the islands of the Eastern Caribbean.

Salty Dawg has over 1,100 family members and a free monthly newsletter that reaches over 8,000.   Dues are low and rally fees nominal.

presented by the Salty Dawg Rally with Bob Osborne from The Salty Dawg Sailing Association

presented by Young Cruisers Association

Captain Gillette recently published her book Around the World in 800 Days – the Voyage of a Lifetime.  The book describes her circumnavigation from 2017-2019 aboard Liberte’, a 46’ Beneteau Oceanis.  Captain Gillette and her husband, David, sailed 28,767 nautical miles in 791 days while exploring four continents and 23 island territories. This presentation will focus on everyday life on board and describe the fun and sheer joy such a voyage provides to those willing to untie the lines from the home dock.  The presentation will also describe the challenges presented by weather, crew, illness, and mechanical breakdowns.

presented by Captain Patricia Gillette

Are you looking to reel in a fresh catch every time you set sail or drop anchor? Join Nina, a seasoned sailor with over 15,000 nautical miles under her belt and seven years of sailing from the US to the South Pacific. From a novice to a passionate fisherwoman, Nina continues to hone the art of fishing while cruising. In this engaging seminar, Capt. Nina will:

– Share her top educational resources for fishing newbies
– Offer practical tips on outfitting your boat for fishing success, tailored to your budget and boat type
– Provide strategies for both short-handed crews and those seeking a relaxing pastime.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true expert and enhance your sailing adventures with the joy and reward of fishing.  Click here to explore Nina’s fishing blogs on S/V Enjoy and get a taste of what’s in store! (https://www.enjoysailing.us/category/passaging-blogs/fishing).

presented by Captain Nina Preuss of SV Enjoy

Fall is the perfect time to begin planning next spring’s coastal cruise to Maine, especially if you rarely venture north of the Chesapeake Bay and need time to get ready. Are you interested in learning how to prepare for cruising beyond local waters, including spare parts, tools, and safety equipment that might be needed? Have you ever wondered whether lobster pots really outnumber Maryland’s crab pots, or if Maine fog is denser than pea soup? Join us for a candid presentation by Captains Cheryl Duvall and Dudley Whitney as they share highlights and a few lowlights from their recent 101-day cruise from Annapolis to Maine and back. Their image-rich slide deck features 42 destinations along their 1,820 nautical mile journey, through Long island Sound, the Cape Cod Canal, and across “Down East” Maine. They even share recommendations for anchoring, mooring, and docking between here and there. From dodging ferries near the Statue of Liberty to redefining “lobsters rolls”, their sea tales are sure to inspire your future maritime adventures.

Presented by Captain Cheryl Duval and Dudley Whitney

presented by Young Cruisers Association

presented by Lenny Rudow of FishTalk Magazine

When operating a boat, do you know what it means at night when you see a vessel with white, red, or green lights?  Do you know which boat has the right of way when overtaking or passing across a channel? If you are unsure and want guidance from experts, then join the Carey’s of Morse Alpha Expeditions for short overview of the Rules of the Road.  This is a great introduction for anyone who operates a boat either in the Chesapeake Bay or anywhere in the US.

presented by Ben & Teresa Carey of Morse Alpha Expeditions

Are you throwing a spider web of line to the dock hand while you are coming into the fuel dock?  Are you correctly tying off your boat when docked?  Have you heard of the term ‘springline’ and do you know when to use it? Practice with the Carey’s on how to correctly throw a line, cleat the line and then safely use lines to depart the dock as well.

presented by Ben & Teresa Carey of Morse Alpha Expeditions