Academics | Nautical Science

Course Overview:

The Sea|mester Nautical Science course consists of both theoretical and practical modules and gives a basic understanding of the knowledge that is required to be an active crew member on board a yacht, whether power or sail. More advanced modules are aimed at increasing a student’s nautical knowledge sufficiently to be a watchkeeper on board a bareboat yacht, or a flotilla skipper in fair weather, in daylight hours within sight of land.

Course Objectives:

Students will become safe boaters and be prepared to meet boating challenges. With this knowledge, they will have a lifelong source of recreation with safe, environmentally-friendly activities. Specific objectives include:

• Fundamentals of small boat handling
• Chart reading
• Rules of the road
• Rigging
• Safety and regulations

Course Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will possess the knowledge and ability to…

• Navigate a modern sea-going sailing vessel, using both traditional and modern methods
• Understand and be prepared for possible safety considerations related to ocean voyaging
• Show full understanding of world weather patterns, including ways to forecast and route for weather while voyaging
• Operate, understand and maintain all shipboard equipment, including the auxiliary propulsion systems, electronics and sailing gear

Academic Materials:

All required course materials are provided by Sea|mester throughout the voyage.

• (1) Chapman Piloting & Seamanship 67th Edition (Chapman Piloting, Seamanship and Small
  Boat Handling) by Jonathan”Eaton (Sep 3, 2013) 920pp. ISBN10: 1588169618
• (2) Coastal Navigation (U.S. Sailing Certification) by Tom Cunliffe (Dec 1, 1995) 126 pp. ISBNQ
  10: 0976226162.
• (3) Basic Coastal Navigation: An Introduction to Piloting for Sail and Power by Frank J. Larkin
  (Jan 25, 1998) 288 pp. ISBNQ10: 1574090526.