Alaska Eagle is the best possible classroom. 
You're out there learning by doing . . .

Each voyage is dedicated to increasing the offshore sailing skills of all crewmembers. Many crewmembers are planning major cruises of their own. Under the direction of two Coast Guard-licensed skipper/instructors, you and your shipmates will form a team and participate in all aspects of offshore cruising.  Through a combination of expert instruction and hands-on experience, you will gain new skills and knowledge in a relatively short time - while doing some incredible sailing!

All crewmembers are equally involved with Eagle's operation, and the skipper/mate teams work with each crewmember in pursuing individual learning objectives. Crew meetings are held to discuss a variety of offshore sailing topics, from knot tying to heavy weather sailing. Other subject areas covered on board include:

Safety

Overboard rescue drills, liferaft operation, pumping systems, firefighting drills, EPIRB operation, jackline and safety harness use, safe on-deck procedures.

Watchstanding

Steering, trimming, changing sails, keeping a log, navigating (both celestial and coastal work), reefing, rigging preventers and guys, keeping the deck shipshape and ready for all conditions.

Anchoring

Anchorage selection, windlass operation, setting an anchor, different anchor and rode selections, using a stern anchor are skills used extensively on the island hopping legs.

Navigating

You will experience hands-on use of extensive electronics equipment, plus celestial instruction. Alaska Eagle has sextants, tables and equipment necessary for all types of navigation.