Common Sailing Questions

  • What kind of boat will I be living on?

    We live on modern 50-foot monohull sailboats with five cabins that sleep 14 people. Each boat has four bathrooms, a main salon, and a fully equipped galley. Foxtrot and Tango and Sierra programs use 42-46 foot catamarans to accommodate the community service and diving activities.

  • Why do we sail in fleets?
    We sail in fleets primarily for safety and instructional purposes but also for the fun and social opportunities it provides. In addition to the captain and mate on each boat, a staff boat accompanies the fleet, carrying additional safety equipment and support staff. Our Mates rotate from boat to boat on a daily basis, each sharing his or her own unique knowledge and enthusiasm for sailing, navigation, racing, cooking, marine biology... the list is endless. Ashore, the crews gather to enjoy the activities each destination has to offer.

    The depth of our staff in each fleet allows us to lead and supervise a wider choice of activities and electives at each location. Students can choose activities together with their crewmates, or choose to try an activity with students from other boats. Should a student require transportation to a doctor visit, one of our staff can accompany that student without negatively impacting the supervision and activities of the rest of the group.

    Naturally, being part of a larger group means there are plenty of other people to meet and have fun with. And traveling together as a fleet provides real-world sailing conditions, excellent instructional opportunities, and the excitement of yacht racing. There's nothing quite like a fleet of 50-foot yachts tacking upwind together!

  • How much sailing or diving experience is needed?
    No experience is necessary, but you should be comfortable on and in the water, have a spirit of adventure, the ability to take on responsibility, and a desire to be challenged.
  • Who will be my cabin mates?

    Students join us from all over the country and from around the world. Their ages range from 12 (finishing sixth grade) to 18.  Echo is for college students so may have older participants.  Each boat has 10-12 students of similar age with a balance of males and females. Our fleet size is 20 to 60 teenagers. Each day offers sailing and meals with your crew and then activities, electives, and socializing with the entire group. The majority of our students come alone, and friends are certainly welcome.