Learn to Sail: Q&A with Blue Pacific Yachting

Learn to Sail: Q&A with Blue Pacific Yachting

This article was featured on visitmdr.com in June 2023.

Ahoy, future sailors! Let’s dive into the world of sailing with a special Q&A session featuring the seasoned sailors of Blue Pacific Yachting. Scroll below to read answers from Blue Pacific Yachting’s General Manager, Mollie Perlman. 

If the idea of mastering the art of sailing has been floating in your mind, then you’ve come to the right place! Picture yourself gliding through the sparkling waters of Marina del Rey, the wind tugging at your sails, and the sun kissing your skin. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have dabbled in sailing before, L.A.’s Marina offers a perfect playground for honing your skills. 

American Sailing Association recently named Blue Pacific Yachting within their top 5 places in the world to learn how to sail this summer!  Click here to read the story. It’s even more remarkable considering they are one of only two locations in the United States mentioned in this list.

 

Small crew sailing on a boat

DO YOU OFFER GROUP CLASSES?

Blue Pacific Yachting offers group and private courses. Most of the courses we offer are certified ASA (American Sailing Association) classes.

We also offer certified US Powerboating courses. We run semi-private (2 people), private (1 person), family classes, and custom courses as well. Believe it or not, we offer these classes 365 days a year! We have weekday courses and weekend courses to fit everyone’s needs. If our scheduled class dates don’t work for you, and if you have a group of 3 or larger, or sign up for a private class, we can schedule the course around your schedule. We try to accommodate everyone and provide as many options as possible for our clients. 

 

Sailboat in the ocean near an island

HOW MANY DAYS TO GET CERTIFIED AND SAIL YOUR OWN BOAT?

This depends on your goals. We have a building block approach. After your first class (Sailing – ASA 101, US Powerboating – Basic Powerboat Cruising), you’ll be able to charter our smaller vessels (up to 28ft).

The beginning level class lasts 2 full days. We also offer a confidence sail after you complete the course to give you extra practice with an instructor before you set sail on your own. 

If your goal is to operate a slightly larger boat (up to 40ft), you’ll want to then take our intermediate level class (Sailing – 103, Powerboating – Inshore Powerboat Cruising). This class lasts 3 full days.

If your ultimate goal is to take our vessels to Catalina Island for a multi-day trip, you’ll then want to move onto our ASA 104 course for a 3 day/ 2 night class. Most of our students combine this class with our catamaran course (ASA 114), so you will take one of our four beautiful catamarans to the island.

I’ve taken this class myself a few times and highly recommend it! There’s nothing like waking up on a boat, listening to the waves, and watching the sunrise over the island. 

 

Bow of sailboat in the ocean

ON WHAT KIND OF SAILBOAT DO YOU LEARN?

You will start out on our 25ft sailboats with an outboard engine. We recommend starting out on a small vessel due to the fact you feel the vessel respond much faster than a larger vessel.

As soon as you make an adjustment to the tiller (steering), the vessel immediately responds. Also, you will feel the change in direction and speed when sheeting in the sails and sheeting them out.

Lastly, body weight affects how the vessel sails… if you move weight to windward/leeward/forward/aft (all sailing terms you will learn in class!), you will see how that helps steer the boat, speed up the boat, etc.  

As for our powerboating program, you will start out on a 28ft sports cruiser. 

 

People on a sailboat docked in a harbor

HOW WOULD SOMEONE GET TO “PRACTICE” SAILING? IS THERE A MEMBERSHIP OR SOME WAY TO RENT BOATS FROM YOU ONCE SOMEONE GETS CERTIFIED?

In terms of practice, yes, we highly recommend that once our students complete their classes, they should come back as soon as possible while the material is fresh in their minds and practice. Students can either sign up for 3-hour confidence sails, come back with fellow students to rent, or practice with family and friends on our smaller vessels.

We do offer a membership which helps bring down the costs of classes and charters. For example, our members get to take our 25ft vessels out for as little as $99 per day! We do this to encourage our members to keep up their skillset and so they have plenty of opportunities to get out on the water… even if it’s just for a couple hours after work on a beautiful summer day.

As for our powerboating program, our clients can rent our 28ft sports cruiser for as little as 2-hours so they can also practice and enjoy some time on the water. Our membership will give them access to lower pricing. 

 

Sailboat in Marina del Rey channel during sunset with clouds

WHAT MAKES MARINA DEL REY A GOOD SPOT FOR LEARNING TO SAIL?

Marina del Rey is a great place to learn how to sail! Did you know, Marina del Rey is the second largest man-made marina in the world! The marina was designed and built with wind direction in mind, so sailors can easily sail in and out. For beginners, you can spend all day just sailing around inside the marina if you are not yet ready for ocean sailing. The conditions are ideal… average wind speed is between 5kts – 10kts (for non-sailors, this means you have just enough wind to go sailing, but not too much where it is overwhelming).

The Santa Monica Bay coastline is beautiful… head north and you will pass the iconic Santa Monica pier (and see the Hollywood sign in the distance!) and then up to beautiful Malibu. Head south and you will hit Palos Verdes cliffs and do some whale watching! Or head southwest and you will hit Catalina Island… a very popular destination for our students and charter clients! During wintertime, you can sail within the marina and see the snowcapped mountains in the distance. We are very lucky to be in a climate (65-to-75-degree average) where you can sail 365 days/year!

 

ANYTHING ELSE YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LEARNING TO SAIL?

Everyone learns differently and at different speeds. ASA has designed their sailing program to reach all types of learners… kinesthetic, audio, and visual. Their award-winning textbooks were developed by passionate sailing professionals. There are also quizzes and glossaries to help readers quickly pick up nautical terminology. Plus, the on the water drills will give you plenty of repetition and practice. If you feel you need more practice before setting sail on your own, you can purchase additional confidence sails so you can practice with an instructor until you feel ready.

Contact Us

We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

PHONE

(310) 305-7245

EMAIL

Info@BluePacificYachting.com

5 Places to Learn to Sail This Summer

5 Places to Learn to Sail This Summer

This article was featured on asa.com in June 2023 and was written by Zeke Quezada.

Summer is here, and the ocean’s call is in your head morning, noon, and night. I know the feeling. All I can think about is having one too many painkillers on the beach in Jost Van Dyke or watching Molokai grow larger right before my eyes as we sail away from the west Maui coast. When the day’s activity has slowed to a crawl, you get an undeniable feeling while at anchor. You can hear the water gently brush against the hull, and the sound of silence on the ocean is deafening.

This is why we sail. Is it the tranquility, the adventure, or the breathtaking beauty of the outdoors? It is a touch of all those things wrapped into a sailing vacation in a foreign destination.

This summer, find your sailing adventure with one of our American Sailing schools that want you to join them on a trip of a lifetime.

RHODE ISLAND — ANCHORS AWEIGH SAILING SCHOOL

Explore Narragansett Bay while sailing to Newport and Block Island with Anchors Aweigh Sailing School.  Their 4-day/3-night excursions allow you to earn your ASA 104 and ASA 114 certifications.

Dates Available:  July 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Narrangansett Bay, Rhode Island

The Destination: Sailing in Narragansett Bay, where the ocean breeze kisses your cheeks, and the salty air fills your lungs with pure bliss. This picturesque haven along the Rhode Island coast should be on every sailor’s bucket list.  As you set sail, the glistening waters guide your vessel past charming coastal towns and iconic lighthouses. Feel the exhilaration as you navigate through the bay surrounded by breathtaking views of opulence and nature. Drop anchor in secluded coves, explore historic Newport, and relish in the local seafood delicacies. Sailing in Narragansett Bay is a delightful journey that weaves together natural beauty, nautical heritage, and an exploration of the epicenter of the American sailing world.

CATALINA ISLAND — BLUE PACIFIC YACHTING

Sail Catalina Island with Blue Pacific while earning your ASA 101, 103, 106, and 114 certifications.

Dates Available: June, July, August

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Catalina Island, California

The Destination: Sailing to Catalina Island is an exhilarating adventure on the waters of the Pacific. As the sails catch the gentle breeze, the boat glides gracefully, offering breathtaking views of the California coastline. The journey begins with anticipation, the sound of waves providing a soothing rhythm. Sunlight dances on the waves, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Dolphins playfully escort the vessel, adding to the sense of wonder. The island’s rugged cliffs gradually emerge, revealing its pristine beauty. Anchoring in Avalon or Two Harbors, the island’s charm unfolds. Exploring its hidden coves, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and indulging in island cuisine create memories to cherish. Sailing to Catalina Island is an unforgettable experience, a perfect fusion of nature’s grandeur and maritime serenity.

GRENADA — LTD “LIVING THE DREAM” SAILING

“Living the Dream” Sailing in Grenada is offering 10” off the Cruise and Learn Courses thi summer.  Book by 30 June 2023, and set sail by 28 October 2023 to enjoy 10% off your all-inclusive Cruise and Learn adventure!

Dates Available: Summer 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grenada

The Destination: Picture yourself sailing in the captivating paradise of Grenada, where Caribbean dreams come true. As your boat glides through the sparkling turquoise waters, you’re greeted by the rhythmic melodies of steelpan music floating in the air. The island’s lush greenery and vibrant landscapes paint a mesmerizing backdrop, tempting you to drop anchor in secluded bays. Dive into the crystal-clear depths to discover a kaleidoscope of marine life, or simply relax on pristine white sand beaches. Indulge in the flavors of nutmeg, cinnamon, and tropical fruits, immersing yourself in the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Sailing in Grenada is an irresistible voyage of discovery, blending natural wonders, warm hospitality, and the true essence of Caribbean paradise.

GREECE — FAIRWINDS SAILING

Go on a 5-day learn to sail vacation in Greece and explore the Island of Corfu, Syvota and Paxos.  This could be a refresher course, a leisure week of sailing or a way to build your sailing resume.

Dates Available:  Summer 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

Greece

The Destination: Sailing in Corfu, Greece. Prepare to be enchanted on a delightful journey through the azure waters of the Ionian Sea. As the sea breeze whispers through your hair, the warm Mediterranean sun caresses your skin, creating a blissful ambiance. The coastline of Corfu beckons with its lush greenery and hidden coves just waiting to be explored. Drop anchor in secluded bays, dive into crystal-clear waters, and let the sun-kissed beaches tickle your toes. And when the day is done, indulge in a feast of fresh seafood while sipping on a glass of Assyrtiko, toasting to the beauty of Corfu and the joys of life at sea.

EUROPE — WHITECAPS SAILING

Sail Europe with Capt. Jean and Admiral Mila.  Their ever popular flotillas attract ASA sailors each summer.  Earn a new certification or work on your sailing skills while visiting a new sailing destination.

Dates Available:  Summer 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mediterranean

The Destination:  Sailing in Turkey, Italy, and Croatia is like embarking on a dreamy voyage and White Caps Sailing gives a choice from a trifecta of Mediterranean marvels. Picture this: you’re cruising along the Turkish coast, basking in the sun while sipping on a refreshing çay (tea). Dazzling turquoise waters invite you to dive in and explore.

Or you choose Italy, as it steals your heart with its romantic charm and mouthwatering cuisine. Imagine anchoring near the Amalfi Coast, with the scent of citrus flowing down the hills. Have an Aperol Spritz as you watch the sunset with Positano in your viewfinder.

You could choose to sail to Croatia. The Adriatic coastline is a treasure trove of ancient cities like Dubrovnik and Split. Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets, feast your eyes on medieval architecture, and swim in the crystalline waters of the Dalmatian islands. Visit Korcula and Hvar on a sailor’s paradise vacation!

Contact Us

We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

PHONE

(310) 305-7245

EMAIL

Info@BluePacificYachting.com

Sail Catalina with Blue Pacific Yachting

Sail Catalina with Blue Pacific Yachting

This article was featured on asa.com in May 2023 and was written by Zeke Quezada.

SAIL TO CATALINA ISLAND

If you grow up in Southern California, you have looked across the Pacific Ocean to see Catalina Island—the island hovers on the horizon like our very own Riviera. As kids, you may have taken a whale watch boat across the channel or taken the ferry to the island for a day trip. In sixth grade, my elementary school class raised money to visit this island “26 miles across the sea,” and Santa Catalina was waiting for me.

10-year-old me; he became a sailor that day. As kids around me were getting seasick, I held a camera in my hand and took as many Instamatic photos as possible. Then, I watched a few sailboats, and I was hooked. I knew one day I would own a sailboat.

My first overnight sailing excursion was to Catalina Island, and my family still sails across to Two Harbors at least once a year.

Sailors wanting to have the Catalina Island experience can get just that with Blue Pacific Yachting out of Marina Del Rey, California.

SAIL TO CATALINA ISLAND WITH BLUE PACIFIC YACHTING

Blue Pacific Yachting

American Sailing School, Blue Pacific Yachting have added new learn to sail classes to their already lengthy collection of sailing courses. Their 6 day, 5 night “0 to Hero” live-aboard class is conducted on their new 2023 Excess 11 catamaran or their very popular 2019 Jeanneau 440. Students complete our ASA 101, 103, 104, and 114 classes in 6 days. The first two days are in Marina del Rey, and then on day 3, they take off for Catalina Island for the remaining 4 days.

Blue Pacific Yachting also offers a Catalina Island Charter Class. This non-ASA certification course helps build your charter skillset and charter resume for future trips. Blue Pacific Yachting has 4 catamarans in their fleet and they will be holding 3 separate 5-day charter classes (July, August, September). Classes includ the vessel, captain/instructor, some provisioning, fuel, and mooring fees.

Blue Pacific Yachting has a charter fleet that includes:

Catamarans

  • 2022 Leopard 45 – 4 cabins/ 4 heads
  • 2020 Lagoon 42 – 4 cabins/ 4 heads
  • 2023 Excess 11 – 4 cabins/ 2 heads
  • 2014 Leopard 44 – 4 cabins/ 4 heads

Monohulls

  • 2023 Dufour 470 (47ft monohull with 4 cabins/4 heads
  • 2019 Jeanneau 440 (44ft monohull with 3 cabins/2 heads)
  • 2013 Dufour 450 Performance (45ft monohull with 3 cabins/ 2 heads)

WHY SAIL TO CATALINA ISLAND?

If you are from Southern Calironia it affords you a sailing vacation without a trip to the airport or updating your passport. However if you need more reasons to visit Santa Catalina Island here are a few:

  • Beautiful natural scenery: Catalina Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and rolling hills. Spend an afternoon kayaking and snorkeling directly from your sailboat.  If you are anchored in two harbors hiking trails are easily accessible.
  • Unique cultural attractions: The island has a rich history and unique cultural offerings, including the Catalina Island Museum and the Catalina Island Casino, a famous landmark that features a ballroom, movie theater, and museum.
  • Recreational opportunities: Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities, such as golfing, fishing, parasailing, and zip-lining.  If you enoy eating as a recreational activity having a meal with a view of the ocean is a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
  • Family-friendly fun: Catalina Island offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families, such as glass-bottom boat tours, miniature golf, and a zipline eco-tour.
  • Unique wildlife: The island is home to a variety of unique wildlife, such as the Catalina Island fox, which is found nowhere else in the world. Visitors can also spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life on a boat tour or while snorkeling.  However, the American Bison has a home on Catalina Island. The bison were brought to the island in the 1920s for the filming of a movie and were left there afterwards. Over time, their population grew and they have since become one of the island’s most iconic attractions. Today, visitors can see bison grazing in the interior of the island, and there are guided tours available that provide a closer look at these magnificent animals. The Catalina Island Conservancy manages the bison population and conducts regular health checks to ensure their well-being.

Contact Us

We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

PHONE

(310) 305-7245

EMAIL

Info@BluePacificYachting.com

Where to find a powerboating club or instructor?

Where to find a powerboating club or instructor?

Blue Pacific Yachting | Sailboat Charters | Powerboat Rentals | ASA Classes |

Have you ever wanted to try powerboating but weren’t sure which club was closest to you, or where to even start? Here at Blue Pacific Yachting, we’re your local experts on boating and sailing. With decades of experience under our belt here in the US powerboating community, we can provide you with the information you need to have an amazing boating and sailing experience.

Give good powerboating instructions.

Blue Pacific Yachting is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that provides quality powerboating lessons or instructions. We offer a range of courses to suit all levels of experience, from beginners to those looking to further their careers in the marine industry.

Highly qualified and experienced instructors.

All our instructors are highly qualified and experienced, with many years of teaching experience in their field. They have passed rigorous training and assessment processes and are dedicated to sharing their passion for boating with students.

Our Aim

Our aim is to provide you with the best learning experience possible so that you can enjoy your time on the water safely.

The people at Blue Pacific Yachting are professional and friendly.

Here is one of the reviews from our customers.

I have been working with Blue Pacific Yachting for about a year now, and I am very happy with the service that they provide. They are friendly and professional and are always ready to help.

I’ve also been impressed by their knowledge of all things related to yachts, from engines to rigging, cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. They have a good eye for detail and are always willing to help me out when I need them.

I highly recommend Blue Pacific Yachting! “

Blue Pacific Yachting can help you get the powerboat you want, teach you how to use it, insure it, and store it.

Blue Pacific Yachting can help you get the powerboat you want, teach you how to use it, insure it, and store it. We are dedicated to providing our customers with an enjoyable boating experience and offer a wide range of services, including:

Powerboat Sales & Rentals

We are a full-service boat dealership that specializes in the sale of new and used boats. We have a huge selection of new and used powerboats for sale and rent. Our selection includes fishing boats, ski boats, center consoles, personal watercraft (PWC), runabouts, and more. We stock all the major brands like Sea-Doo PWCs and Yamaha Jet Boats. We have a large inventory of both new and used boats for you to choose from. We have access to all the leading manufacturers. We also offer a wide selection of used accessories like radar units and electronics.

Watercraft Training and Certification

Whether you’re an experienced boater or just starting out in the world of boating, we offer courses designed to teach you everything from basic water safety to advanced navigation techniques. Our courses are taught by certified instructors who are committed to helping you achieve your goals on the water.

Marine Insurance

Blue Pacific Yachting offers competitively priced insurance for everything from pleasure boats to commercial vessels, including coverage for damage due to vandalism or theft. Whether your vessel is a weekend fishing boat or a commercial dive boat, we have an insurance plan that meets your needs at a price that won’t break the bank!

Our knowledgeable staff will help guide you through the entire process of purchasing your new or pre-owned boat, from start to finish. We take pride in our customer service, so we will always make sure you feel comfortable throughout every step of your transaction with us.

For those who already own a boat, we offer every type of marine insurance coverage available, including hull coverage (damage) as well as liability coverage (damage/injury). All policies are underwritten by highly rated insurance companies like Progressive Insurance or National General Insurance Company (NAIC).

Powerboating classes for any skill level.

Whether you’re just getting started or want to learn a new skill, Blue Pacific Yachting is here to help you take your next steps into the world of powerboating. We offer boating lessons for any level of experience, and our instructors will work with you step-by-step to make sure you get the most out of your time on the water.

Blue Pacific offers boating members an alternative to the traditional sailing experience. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of boating activities in a more relaxed, modern setting. Blue Pacific Yachting is proud to be a member of the Blue Ocean Network family of yacht clubs. Club members enjoy a network of marinas, ports, and destinations all over the world.

Blue Pacific Yachting

Proud to be LA’s premier boating destination in Marina Del Rey for over 30 years — Charter a Yacht, ASA Sailing / Powerboat School, Boating Club. Charter Sailboats, Rent a Powerboat, Learn to Sail, Learn Powerboating — or sail to Catalina with us.

Join the Club

BPY does reciprocity with other sailing clubs! It’s like a buddy/sister club system where if you’re a member at another sailing club, you might get membership discounts at BPY too. Talk to Ruth in the office — she’s very nice and helpful if you have any questions.If you have a story to share about Blue Pacific Yachting, please click a review platform icon below to tell your story —  or if you have something newsworthy for our blog, please feel free to reach out to us here.

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Contact Us

We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

PHONE

(310) 305-7245

EMAIL

Info@BluePacificYachting.com

Powerboating

Powerboating

Blue Pacific Yachting | Sailboat Charters | Powerboat Rentals | ASA Classes |

Many people are interested in learning more about power boating, what it is and how they can get involved. Most begin by searching the internet as they don’t know where to go, who to call, or how to get involved. I’m going to try my best to answer your questions here because, if you’re like me, you want more than information from one website-you want the entire story.

What is powerboating?

Recreational activity

It is a recreational activity most popular in Western European countries and the United States, where powerboats are a common sight and can be powered by either petrol or diesel motors. Diesel is becoming a popular choice for powerboat enthusiasts because it has fewer emissions.

A form of boating that focuses on racing.

Another form of boating that focuses on racing around a course with all off-the-water moments, except for jumps, being eliminated from the final time. This is also recognized by the United States Power Squadrons as one of the five main disciplines: sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and rowing.

Powerboat types

If you want to get out on the water but don’t want to deal with a lot of maintenance or storage issues, a powerboat may be the right choice. Powerboats are faster and more stable than most sailboats, making them easier to operate. Most can also carry more passengers than sailboats.

The main types of powerboats include:

Runabouts:

Runabouts are small open boats that are usually less than 20 feet long. They’re typically used for fishing and recreation, but they can also be used as tender boats when cruising on larger yachts.

Monohulls:

Monohulls have one hull and one keel and are usually faster than catamarans (below). They tend to be less stable than catamarans, however, which makes them less suitable for inexperienced boaters or those who want a relaxing ride at lower speeds.

Multihulls:

Multihulls have two hulls connected by an internal frame called a trampoline. Catamarans have two hulls connected by a crossbeam called a catwalk; trimarans have three hulls connected by two catwalks; quadramarans have four catwalks, and hexamerous have six catwalks (and so on).

Where can you take your powerboat?

They can be used for fishing, water sports, or just cruising around with friends. The best part is that they are relatively easy to handle and operate.

Here is where you can take them:

Smaller boats

If you want to go out for a couple of hours, then smaller boats like canoes or kayaks are great options. These boats are light enough that one person can carry them onto shore, but they also have enough room to fit more than one person comfortably. If you’re looking for something larger, however, then you might want to consider getting an inflatable boat instead. Inflatable boats can be deflated and stored easily when not in use, making them a great option if space is limited.

Tall boats

Tall boats are typically used for fishing because they allow you to get close to your prey without spooking it off before you even get close enough for a shot. These usually have large engines that allow them to move quickly through the water without having to worry about getting stuck on rocks or other debris along the shoreline. This makes them ideal vessels if you enjoy catching fish while having fun.

The skills you need to operate a boat

The skills you need to operate a boat vary with the type of watercraft, but there are some basics that apply to all boats.

Boating Basics

There are several things you should know before you hit the water:

How to start and stop your engine safely.

How to steer your boat safely in different conditions.

How to dock your boat properly

The challenges of powerboating

The biggest challenge of powerboating is that it’s not as easy to access as other water sports. Boats are expensive, they take up a lot of space, and they require maintenance.

Another challenge is how expensive it is. Some boats cost hundreds of thousands of dollars! Even if you don’t have that kind of money available right now, there are other ways to save money on boats and accessories, such as fuel filters and oil filters.

If you’re looking for the next spectacular time with your friends or an amazing photo and want to experience a whole new world of water adventure, this might be the activity for you.

Blue Pacific Yachting

Proud to be LA’s premier boating destination in Marina Del Rey for over 30 years — Charter a Yacht, ASA Sailing / Powerboat School, Boating Club. Charter Sailboats, Rent a Powerboat, Learn to Sail, Learn Powerboating — or sail to Catalina with us.

Join the Club

BPY does reciprocity with other sailing clubs! It’s like a buddy/sister club system where if you’re a member at another sailing club, you might get membership discounts at BPY too. Talk to Ruth in the office — she’s very nice and helpful if you have any questions.If you have a story to share about Blue Pacific Yachting, please click a review platform icon below to tell your story —  or if you have something newsworthy for our blog, please feel free to reach out to us here.

fb, social, social, icon, social, media, social, network, icon  yelp, icon, hoot, bark, howl, screech, yap, yip, yowl, figure, idol, picture, portrait, symbol, ikon 

Contact Us

We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

PHONE

(310) 305-7245

EMAIL

Info@BluePacificYachting.com

Sailing Safety Tips

Sailing Safety Tips

Blue Pacific Yachting | Sailboat Charters | Powerboat Rentals | ASA Classes |

Sailing is both a fun hobby as well as a great way to get from point A to point B. There is nothing quite like the feeling of wind on your face and the smell of sea air. You will love how sailing feels, but it is a big responsibility too. When it comes to sailing, safety is more important than having fun. That’s why you must know how to protect your boat while sailing. Here are some sailing safety tips to consider:

Keep your boat safe at sea.

Check for damage.

Before heading out on the water, check for any damage to your boat. Look for cracks in the hull or rigging, loose screws, frayed lines, and other problems that could cause trouble later on. Make sure everything is securely fastened down before hitting open water so you don’t have to deal with these problems while sailing.

Check the rigging regularly for signs of wear and tear.

 If you notice fraying ropes or broken straps, replace them immediately so that they don’t cause problems during sailing.

Check for leaks in the hull at least once a month.

Look for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration or mildew, around seams or under hatches, as well as any wet spots on decking or cabinetry.

Replace the damage.

Make sure they are properly attached and that they are still in good working order. If they look damaged or worn out, replace them as soon as possible.

Use your rudder.

The rudder is probably one of the most important parts of a sailboat because it allows you to adjust your course by steering left or right. If your rudder’s not working right, then you might find yourself tacking back and forth in order to stay on course. Make sure that your rudders are aligned properly before heading out onto open water so they can handle any rough conditions that may arise during your voyage.

If you are sailing in choppy waters, be careful not to turn your boat over by running aground too quickly.

Bring along an anchor light.

If you’re going out at night or during bad weather when visibility is low, be sure to bring along an anchor light so other boats can see you clearly when they’re approaching yours. This will also help them avoid collisions with your vessel if they don’t have radar equipment onboard their own boats.

Register your boat with the Coast Guard.

This isn’t always required, but it makes it easier to track down owners if there’s a problem with their boats. Also, it may help prevent insurance scams—people sometimes claim that their boats were stolen when they were actually involved in accidents and trying to collect on insurance claims.

Insure your boat against theft as well as other risks such as fire and storms.

Insurance companies often offer discounts for people who buy multiple policies (home insurance, auto insurance) through them, so this can potentially save you money as well as give you peace of mind while sailing around in foreign ports with expensive equipment on board!

Learn to have both fun and security while sailing.

There’s nothing worse than having your boat broken while on vacation. Luckily, you can prevent this from happening by taking simple precautions. Learn how you can have both fun and security while sailing on your boat.

I hope that this article on sailing safety has helped you to better protect yourself, your family, and the equipment. By following the sailing safety tips I have provided, you should be able to safely sail in many areas of the world. Though there are many other hazards to sailing that I have not covered here, this article could give you a great starting point if you have never been sailing, or learn more if you are a more experienced sailor.

Blue Pacific Yachting

Proud to be LA’s premier boating destination in Marina Del Rey for over 30 years — Charter a Yacht, ASA Sailing / Powerboat School, Boating Club. Charter Sailboats, Rent a Powerboat, Learn to Sail, Learn Powerboating — or sail to Catalina with us.

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BPY does reciprocity with other sailing clubs! It’s like a buddy/sister club system where if you’re a member at another sailing club, you might get membership discounts at BPY too. Talk to Ruth in the office — she’s very nice and helpful if you have any questions.If you have a story to share about Blue Pacific Yachting, please click a review platform icon below to tell your story —  or if you have something newsworthy for our blog, please feel free to reach out to us here.

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We look forward to helping you achieve your nautical goals. If you're just starting out, or hoping to increase your experience level and skillset, we'll get you there. Blue Pacific Yachting has served the Marina del Rey community for more than 30 years. With Sailing instruction, powerboating courses, trips to Catalina Island and the Channel Islands, yacht racing classes, spinnaker clinics, catamaran courses, docking clinics, instructor certification courses — we cover it all. Plus, we have a beautiful fleet of boats to bareboat charter. We are proud to be LA's premier boating destination.

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