Tuesday, February 5, 2013

New ASA Tests and New Log Books

The ASA  has focused on improving our educational materials the past few months. We would like to make you aware of some of these changes they have made:

ASA standards have been updated. They are not new, just updated. The will replace those currently shown in our Log Books.

New Log Books now reads "Official Certification Log Book", reflecting the fact that it is now, and has always been, much more of al record of a student's certifications than a record of one's sailing.

The ASA 104 course will be called "Bareboat Cruising", reather than Bareboat Chartering.

ASA has revised a few of the questions in both the 101 and 104 Exams. They have reworded a couple questions so that all of the material that is tested is in our Sailing Made Easy textbook.

Come and join us for a fun filled week of learning to sail in the beautiful San Juan Islands, one of the top five sailing destinations in the world!www.sailnw.com. There is a lot of good food awaiting you!


Thursday, January 24, 2013

Get Ready for Sailing

Sailing season will be here before we know it. Now is the time to plan to take that first sailing class, hone your sailing skills, or reserve the boat you want for your summer charter. Things are gearing up at SailNorthwest Charters. We have an all gals class that is full and have set a date for another one. Couples private classes are extremely popular. In a private class for two you have the boat and the instructor to yourselves. Check out our sailing school at www.sailnw.com/

We loved having Jack and Cyntjia aboard for a private couples class. They achieved their goals!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Happy Guests Aboard


We are happy to share what Allison and her group liked about their charter with Sailnorthwest Charters!

We had the best time! Our week-long family trip in the San Juan islands was wonderful! Our captains Judy and Griff, their dog Lilly, and our family of six sailed on Hopscotch, a well laid out, clean, and well maintained sail boat. Both Judy and Griff cooked for us, and our meals were delicious. The kitchen was stocked with lots of fresh fruit and snacks, and there was always an appetizer and dessert. We especially enjoyed the fresh peach pancakes! Our group spent a lot of time sailing the boat, and our captains were very patient with us as we learned the ropes. The stops each day were well planned and varied between less populated islands with hiking and rocky beaches, and Roche and Friday Harbors on San Juan Island--both cute, little towns to hang out in. We'd definitely sail with Judy and Griff again, and would highly recommend Sail Northwest to anyone. www.sailnw.com/crewedvacation.html

Allison

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Crabbing is one of our favorite pastimes

Crabbing on one of our favorite pastimes in the San Juan Islands whether we are in a class or a crewed vacation. Everyone enjoys a crab feast and dungeness crab are the best tasting of all. Add a little melted lemon butter, dip, and enjoy!

www.sailnw.com/crewedvacation.html
Posted by Picasa

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Jibing the Jib!

Jibing the jib is much easier that jibing the main. It is just like tacking... just ease the headsail sheet and trim it in on the opposite side. It is easier as the main is taking most of the wind from the headsail when you are sailing downwind. Easing the headsail sheet, not fully casting it off, is the key. If the headsail is fully cast off to fly on its own, it can wrap around the headstay.

Smooth Sailing!

www.sailnw.com/school.html

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Sailing by the lee.

When your stern has passed through the eye of the wind but your sail has yet to swing across, you are sailing by the lee. The boom will lift unless it is vanged down. The mainsail may flutter The biggest danger is an accidental jibe. It is better to complete the jibe or head back upwind on your current tack.

www.sailnw.com/school.html