BKBboat

Some sailing schools, especially those connected to charter companies, use larger yachts (over
35’) to teach Basic keelboat. While it is not impossible to learn the basics on a larger yacht, it is
harder and the student’s learning may be compromised. Why?

1. “Seat of the pants” – Even in our technological age, much of sailing is
feel. On a smaller, lighter boat (3000- 5,000 pounds), there is immediate
feedback. When you do something right, the boat accelerates. When you
do something less correct (luff or stall the sails, for example), the boat
slows down. You feel it… You learn! You feel the direct connection
between your action and the boat’s response. On a 40’ sailboat weighing
15,000 to 20000 pounds, there is a huge lag between your action and the
boat’s response. If you do something right, 30 seconds to a minute later,
the boat gradually accelerates. There is no direct connection. So no learning
occurs. Also, sailors often talk about getting the boat “in a groove”- that
perfect combination of steering and sail trim that produces the right feel, minimum heel and
maximum speed. Learning how to find “the groove” is much easier in a smaller, lighter boat.

2. Maneuverability – On a smaller, lighter boat, sails are smaller and easier to handle. Six tacks
in a row to practice coming about is easy. On larger boats, this is more difficult and often
students will practice fewer maneuvers because they are harder and take more time. Less
practice means less understanding and incomplete learning. Once you learn the basics larger
yachts become appropriate.

3. Matching the boat with the Certification - The ASA 101 Basic Keelboat certification is to
prepare students to “ sail a boat of about 20’ in length in light to moderate winds and sea
conditions”. The ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising certification prepares students to “cruise
safely in local and regional waters on an auxiliary powered sailboat of about 20’ to 30’ in length.’
The ASA 104 Bareboat Chartering prepares students ‘’to skipper or crew on a 30’-50’ boat
sailing by day in coastal waters.” At PSSI, we use the appropriate sized boat for each class. For
101, we use 22’-27’ keelboats. For 103, 27’-38’ keelboats and for 104, 38’-50’ keelboats and
catamarans.

Don’t be shortchanged by learning on the wrong size boat!