Elisa's Journey - Navigation and Meteorology Course

The past week I attended a shore-based theory course on Navigation and Meteorology. The equivalent level of material was RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster Theory. I already gained this certification in Australia two years ago, so the course provided an intensive refresher. There were twelve students of varying experience, several at the recommended Day Skipper level. People were not expected to pass all the exams, but were encouraged to take in as much of the material as possible.

After preparing for the course on my own at home, it was great to be in a room with others who were motivated to learn. The level of effort was high, considering we were planning to race across oceans and navigate our way into ports all over the world!

Our teacher, John, was excellent, and managed to include as much of the material as possible in our one week course – even if it meant longer days. We were in class from 08:30 – 18:00, then given homework problems to complete on our own. Three exams were completed over the week, one which required an 80% pass (IRPCS Rules of the Road).

Topics included traditional and modern navigation techniques, applying tidal set and drift, weather patterns, analyzing forecasts, and seamanship. The course was a great review of my previous studies. I gained an even better understanding of the techniques by the end of the week. This should serve as a good lead in to the race, where the knowledge will be put into practice.

One of the most interesting aspects was meeting fellow crew members. Everyone had their own story and different motivations to join a round the world yacht race. After all, they say more people have climbed Mount Everest than sailed around the world!

Many have taken breaks from high level business careers. Others have left their jobs permanently, hoping the race will map out a new direction for their life. Some have taken out mortgages on their homes to cover the race fees. Regardless of the situation, all have made compromises and taken risks.  Common themes discussed among crew members were a search for balance in their lives and a desire to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. The Clipper Race seems to be about more than sailing!