How to Learn Cruising Skills

This week, we will tackle an excellent question that we received from Quarterdeck member and Isbjørn crewmember Knut Nesheim: "What is the best way to build the skills needed for cruising?" Like many others, Knut is planning to sail off over the horizon in the near future, and is wondering how he should prepare himself. How much do you need to know before you set off on an ocean sabbatical, and what is the best way to acquire these skills? Should you just buy a boat and learn by doing? Study books? Do an RYA Yachtmaster, or other licensing? Do you really need an STCW safety course? And is it possible to prepare too much? Being professional sailing teachers, Andy and August should really have some good answers to this one. -- Join us on The QUARTERDECK, 59º North's new online platform where we dive deep on the art of seamanship. First two weeks free! -- This podcast is recorded Thursdays at 1900 UTC on the Quarterdeck, so members can watch the show live, ask questions and suggest future topics.