Q&A

A: While trimming sails is an important skill, sailing lessons cover much more. Sailing is about mastering a wide range of skills needed to safely and confidently operate a boat in a wide range of conditions.

A: You’ll learn traditional navigation using paper charts and a magnetic compass, as well as how to use modern electronic tools like GPS, chartplotters, and AIS. Understanding when and how to use both is key for safe sailing.

A: Absolutely. Maneuvering the boat under power, especially in tight spaces, and mastering the docking process are critical parts of training. These skills require calm, precision, and teamwork.

A: Safety is the foundation of all we teach. You’ll become familiar with essential safety equipment, (indicatively) including VHF radios, fire extinguishers, flares, life jackets, harnesses, wire cutters, first aid kits, emergency tillers, grab bags, and emergency beacons like EPIRBs — and learn how to use them properly.

A: Practical skills like knot tying, anchoring techniques, line handling, and equipment maintenance are integral to our courses. Sailing is about preparation, awareness, and good judgment, building confident sailors ready for real conditions.

A: Earning your sailing certificate is an important milestone that means you’ve learned essential skills in navigation, boat handling, and safety. However, sailing alone (especially as a beginner) depends on many factors, including your confidence, experience, the type of boat, and local conditions.
Our courses prepare you to sail safely and competently, but we always recommend gaining practical experience gradually, starting with crewed sails or with someone more experienced onboard.

A: SailingCompass Academy is an interactive online platform that helps you build sailing knowledge and confidence from anywhere in the world. Using a detailed 3D model of IRIS, a real sailing yacht, you can explore every system and space onboard — combined with videos, diagrams, and interactive tools for an engaging learning experience.

A: Whether you’re a beginner sailor, yacht owner, charter guest, or preparing to join a flotilla, the Academy is designed to help you familiarize yourself with the boat and its equipment before you even step aboard, making your sailing experience safer and more enjoyable.

A: The 3D model lets you virtually “step aboard” IRIS and explore the yacht in detail at your own pace. This hands-on approach helps you understand the layout, systems, and gear visually, reinforcing your learning in a practical and memorable way.

A: Yes! The platform is fully online and accessible on various devices, so you can learn whenever and wherever it suits you, perfect for busy schedules or remote preparation.

A: Beyond just teaching facts, the Academy focuses on developing your decision-making and situational awareness. You’ll learn the “why” behind sailing procedures and how to think like a seasoned sailor, helping you build real skills and confidence before you even set foot on a boat.