Online class overview
This comprehensive course walks you through the classic coastal cruising route from Key West to the Chesapeake Bay, combining offshore sailing with protected ICW segments. You’ll get practical, experience-backed advice for every leg of the journey—waypoints, fuel stops, anchoring spots, and timing tips included. Whether you stick to the ICW or brave offshore stretches, you’ll finish the course with a full route plan that adapts to your boat, pace, and conditions.
Who is this online class for?
This series is for coastal cruisers planning their first long passage or looking to level up their route planning. It’s ideal for cruising couples, liveaboards, snowbirds, and anyone on a sailboat or trawler traveling at 5–7 knots. You should have basic navigation and boat-handling skills—this course builds on them with real-world strategies.
What will I learn?
In this series, sailors can expect to learn how to plan, time, and adapt their journey up the Atlantic coast. You’ll master when to go inside versus offshore, how to handle weather windows, and where to stop for fuel, rest, or provisioning. You’ll also learn techniques for tide timing, bridge schedules, and handling high-traffic areas.
List of topics:
- Route segments and safe harbors from Key West to Norfolk
- Timing offshore runs vs. ICW stretches
- Fuel planning, marina stops, and anchoring tactics
- Bridge schedules and lock navigation
- How to handle shallow inlets, tides, and swing room
- Managing Gulf Stream impact and coastal currents
- Local knowledge tips and alternate route options
- Avoiding common mistakes on a long coastal trip