Introduction to Radar

with

Ben & Teresa Carey

Morse Alpha Expeditions

Learn the essential features and functions of radar and how to use it for basic navigation.

90-Minute Live Session

On Demand Replay Available

Live Q&A

Radar remains unparalleled in guiding your vessel through the most challenging conditions, whether navigating the darkest of nights or the thickest of fogs. Radar helps you not only establish your position using a lone buoy or landmark but also identify other vessels and obstacles in your vicinity and track the movement of storms. The modern radar, with its smaller size, affordability, and increased features, makes it a must-have piece of gear more than ever before for both sailors and powerboaters.

FREE

Introduction to Radar

Online class overview

This online class is designed for beginners who are curious about radar technology and want to understand its basics. Whether you’re looking to learn how to use your radar or just exploring if radar is right for you, this session will introduce you to essential features and functions. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently use radar for basic navigation and make an informed decision about this valuable tool.

List of topics:

Choosing the ideal radar model for your sail or powerboat
Installing, adjusting, and operating your radar system
Comparing display modes: Head-up, North-up, and Course-up
Interpreting radar screen images
Piloting and tracking nearby vessels with radar
Navigating in limited visibility: fog, night, and low-light conditions
Using EBLs (Electronic Bearing Lines) and VRMs (Variable Range Markers) to avoid collisions
Setting range guards and alarms for added safety
Tracking weather patterns, outmaneuvering competitors, and other advanced uses
Integrating radar with digital compasses, GPS, or electronic charts

Your Host

Ben & Teresa Carey

Teresa Carey and Ben Eriksen Carey are seasoned maritime professionals and co-owners of Morse Alpha Expeditions, a renowned coastal and offshore sail-training program. Teresa is a US Coast Guard licensed captain, educator, and accomplished media producer. Her experience includes captaining diverse vessels—schooners, motor yachts, sailing yachts, and even a lobster boat—and teaching for sea programs like Outward Bound. Teresa’s solo offshore sailing and her work as a science journalist, and experience teaching high school, college, and on-the-water enrich her teaching with practical and scientific insights. Ben holds a 200 Ton US Coast Guard Master's License and a 500 Ton Mate of Towing credential. His extensive maritime career spans schooners, tugboats, sailing and motor yachts, with expertise as captain, mate, and beyond. A lifelong waterman and marine biology graduate, Ben brings a deep understanding of seamanship and safety to his instruction. Together, Ben and Teresa have sailed thousands of nautical miles, co-founded Morse Alpha Expeditions, and produced engaging sailing media including podcasts, like the Morning Muster Sailing Podcast, and documentaries. Their combined hands-on experience and passion for education make them exceptional instructors for this navigation rules online class.

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Online Class Registration

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@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (90 min)

Regular Price

ASA Member Price

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!