Marine Biology for Sailors: What’s Really Happening Beneath Your Keel? - American Sailing

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  • Marine Biology for Sailors: What’s Really Happening Beneath Your Keel?

    Posted by Diona on September 7, 2026 at 9:00 am

    One of the best parts of sailing is never knowing what might show up alongside the boat. Dolphins riding the bow wave, a whale in the distance, seabirds suddenly gathering over the water, or that magical glow of bioluminescence after dark.

    But have you ever wondered why you’re seeing what you’re seeing?

    On Tuesday, September 8, join marine biologists and experienced offshore cruisers Gio & Julie Cappelli for Marine Biology for Sailors, a live online class that explores the incredible living world we sail through.

    Rather than simply learning to identify different species, Gio and Julie will show us how marine life connects to currents, water temperature, productivity, weather, and the larger ocean ecosystem. We’ll explore everything from tiny plankton to whales, dolphins, seabirds, turtles, sharks, coral reefs, kelp forests, and more.

    🐋 What You’ll Explore

    • Why marine life gathers in certain areas
    • What whales, dolphins, and seabirds can tell us about ocean conditions
    • Coral reefs, kelp forests, and open-ocean ecosystems
    • Plankton and its surprisingly huge role in ocean life
    • Bioluminescence and other fascinating ocean phenomena
    • Responsible wildlife viewing while cruising
    • How to become a better observer of the ocean around your boat

    No marine biology background required. Just bring your curiosity!

    📅 Tuesday, September 8, 2026
    ⏰ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET
    ⏱️ 90-minute live session + Q&A
    🎥 Can’t attend live? Registration includes unlimited access to the on-demand replay.

    👉 Learn More & Register

    💬 Let’s Talk Marine Life

    What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever spotted while sailing?

    🐬 Dolphins playing in the bow wave?
    🐋 A whale encounter?
    🦈 A shark alongside the boat?
    ✨ Bioluminescence lighting up your wake?

    Share your best sighting below. Bonus points for photos!

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