Beach-cruising and Coastal Camping
Overnight adventures on small sailboats.
- ROSS BEANE & BILL THOMAS —August 12–18
Tuition: $900 (includes camping and meals)
Note: Students should be in good physical condition, have good balance and agility and have plenty of prior sailing experience.
North America’s early history was written along its coasts and waterways, well before a road system was established. For many, beach-cruising along rivers, canals, chains of lakes, and ocean beaches is the ultimate in both boating and camping. In this course offered by experienced outdoorsmen and boaters Ross Beane and Bill Thomas, students will learn a lot about camp cruising and how to enjoy the experience in a safe and affordable manner. Using daysailers out of the WoodenBoat School fleet, along with appropriate boats brought by students, you’ll make preparations and then head off on a multiday camping adventure that will explore local Maine Island Trail Association islands.
Tailored toward capable smallboat sailors, this course will cover the logistical and practical aspects of beach-cruising such as trip planning, charting, gear selection, meal preparation and stowage,“leave no trace” camping, health and hygiene, and, of course, safety.
On the first day, your instructors will lead discussions on design considerations for an appropriate camp cruising boat. Weight, size, comfort, rigging, safety, beaching, and trailering considerations will all be examined. Advantages and disadvantages of using open boats will be debated. You’ll also learn how to outfit a boat with the correct anchoring system, navigation and safety equipment, and weather protection. Tides, currents, and weather patterns will be explored. Lessons on camping and galley equipment, bulk food selection and rationing, clothing and bedding, and first aid will follow. As this busy first day winds down, the boats will then be packed for a Tuesday morning departure.
Over the next four days, instructors and students will enjoy the sights and sounds of our local waters under sail and oar, keeping busy doing daily weather checks, plotting courses, anchoring and beaching, staying safe, preparing meals, relaxing around campfires, and sleeping under the stars. This course is all about the joys of beach-cruising and coastal camping—a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to stay out all night, all week, or all season, in a boat that in itself is not quite enough to provide the comforts of home.
