Naturale progressions

[tommyt]

Unless it has changed a lot, ASA 104/105 does not teach Spinaker. In fact, the 37' boat that I took the class on had neither a spinaker or a pole. I believe that Offshore Sailings Racing class teaches Spinaker, but would be surprised if ASA 104 (Coastal Cruising) has it in its curriculam. Many people take the combined class of 104/105 and the Navigation takes quite a bit of the week.

Good luck, and let us know where you find a Spin class if you do.

[sailingdog]

Originally Posted by tommyt

Good luck, and let us know where you find a Spin class if you do.

Bally's has a great spin class... Actually, I think the best way to learn how to use a spinnaker is to go out with someone who has a lot of experience flying one and crew with them for a few races.

For those of us who are primarily cruising sailors, rather than racing sailors, the racing experience is excellent as you learn a lot about tweaking the boat and sails for maximum performance, and that can help a lot when the winds are light.

[dirtylittlesecret]

Thanks guys. It looks like Island Sailing here in Portland has a racing/spinakker class offered on the side. Think I'll take the 5 day Coastal/Bareboat course first thing next season and then take on the race/spin courses shortly following.
Its impressive how bloody fast the J24 can get just under mainsail...has a tendency to "walk" past many of the newer 30-40 footers who are under 2-3 sails fairly regularly. This thing must just up and haul once its powered up with a spinakker.