Master the art of Mediterranean mooring. Learn the techniques, understand the principles, and gain the confidence to dock like a pro on your next sailing adventure abroad.
Mediterranean mooring — or Medmooring — is a docking technique where a vessel is secured stern-to a dock using an anchor or lazy (slime) lines at the bow. It’s a highly efficient way to maximize dock space and is common throughout the Mediterranean, where tidal changes are minimal. While this method is second nature to European sailors, it can be daunting for those accustomed to bow-in or alongside docking, as most U.S. marinas are designed differently. Misunderstanding the process can easily lead to stressful or even hazardous docking situations.
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ONLINE CLASS OVERVIEW
In this online class, you’ll learn the ins and outs of Medmooring — from setup and communication to real-world problem-solving — so you can approach any Mediterranean dock with confidence and control.
Who is this online class for?
This online class is designed for any sailor planning to charter, skipper, or crew a boat in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re preparing for your first European charter or brushing up before your next coastal cruise, this online class will help you dock smoothly, safely, and stress-free.
What Will I Learn?
By the end of this online class, you’ll understand not just the how, but the why behind Medmooring techniques. You’ll gain a clear picture of what to expect in Mediterranean marinas, learn to coordinate effectively with your crew, and develop the confidence to dock in unfamiliar conditions.
List of Topics:
- Review of basic docking principles
- What is Medmooring and why it’s used
- Types of Medmooring setups
- Preparing your boat and crew
- Step-by-step maneuvering to the dock
- Securing your boat safely
- Techniques for departing the dock
- Differences between monohulls and catamarans
- Common challenges and how to avoid them
- Building confidence through practice and planning
Master the art of Mediterranean mooring.
Step Into the World of Mediterranean Docking
Discover the signature docking style of the Mediterranean and gain the skills to handle it with confidence. This online class brings clarity to one of the most distinctive techniques in sailing, where boats secure stern-to the dock using either an anchor or lazy lines at the bow. Common throughout Europe’s harbors, Medmooring allows for efficient use of marina space but can be a challenge for those unfamiliar with it. This online class walks you through each phase so you can dock smoothly, safely, and without stress.
Inside the Technique
Guided by Captain Dimitris Bampakos of Fair Winds Sailing Greece, you’ll explore the essential steps to prepare your boat, coordinate with your crew, and adapt to tight or crowded marinas. With his wealth of experience both at sea and in instruction, Captain Dimitris breaks down the nuances of line handling, boat positioning, and communication so you can approach any Medmooring scenario with calm precision.
A Must for Charterers, Skippers, and Adventurous Sailors
Ideal for anyone planning a charter or sailing trip in the Mediterranean, this course will transform an intimidating skill into an enjoyable and repeatable process. You’ll come away understanding how to approach the dock with control, execute your maneuvers confidently, and depart with ease—ready to sail Europe’s coastlines like a seasoned skipper.
YOUR HOST
Dimitris Bampakos
Founder and Lead Instructor, Fair Winds Sailing Greece
Captain Dimitris Bampakos is a former officer of the Greek Navy and an American Sailing Senior Master Instructor (SMI). Over his 26 years of naval service, he served as captain, executive officer, and deck officer aboard frigates and fast patrol boats, logging more than 100,000 nautical miles worldwide.
After commanding his final warship in 2006, Captain Dimitris began cruising and racing throughout the Mediterranean. While stationed in Virginia, USA (2013–2016), he earned all ASA certifications up to the Offshore Ocean Passage (ASA 108) level and became an ASA Instructor through ASA 206. During that time, he also sailed extensively in the Chesapeake Bay, North Atlantic, and North Pacific as a proud member of Patriot Sailing and BBSA.
In 2020, he was invited to Los Angeles to complete ASA’s Instructor Evaluator Qualification Clinic, earning the title of Master Instructor. By 2023, he led the same clinic in Tampa Bay, Florida, becoming one of ASA’s distinguished Senior Master Instructors.
A graduate of the National Defense University (USA) with an MSc in Electronic Systems Engineering, Captain Dimitris has also taught radar and naval communication systems at the postgraduate level since 2000.
ONLINE CLASS REGISTRATION
@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (90 min)
Regular Price
$39
ASA Member Price
$29
ON-DEMAND ACCESS
All registrations include unlimited on-demand access to the recordings of the live online class. So if you are unable to attend live you can still register and watch at your leisure.
ASA MEMBER DISCOUNT
American Sailing Members can claim their discount in the Member Portal. If you're not a current member then for only $59/year you can join or renew today!
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