Online class overview
Along popular US coastal routes, wind and tidal currents play a major role in how enjoyable a trip feels. In this online class, you will learn how to use modern weather tools to assess conditions, build forecast confidence, and make smarter decisions.
Craig will cover key questions sailors ask when preparing for this kind of coastal passage, including when to depart, how to find the safest and most comfortable track, how to find the best anchorage, how to account for tidal currents along US coastal routes, what onboard systems to use, and how to download and manage weather data while underway. You’ll also learn how to share your position and allow friends and family to track your progress from home.
Whether you’re preparing for a day trip or an overnight weekend cruise, you’ll leave with practical strategies to help you plan smarter and sail with confidence.
Who is this online class for?
This online class is designed for sailors and coastal cruisers who want clearer weather decisions on day sails and overnighters. Whether you are newer to coastal passages and building fundamentals, or an experienced cruiser who wants to squeeze more value from a PredictWind Basic Forecast Subscription, you will gain practical skills that help you make safer, more confident calls for your crew and vessel.
What will I learn?
In this online class, Craig Smith, PredictWind’s weather routing specialist, will show how to use PredictWind for a coastal day sail or overnighter. You will learn how to find the best departure window, compare forecast models, plan safer and more comfortable routes, factor in tidal currents, and use PredictWind’s tools before and during a passage. You’ll also gain practical techniques for managing weather data underway and sharing your progress with friends and family ashore.
List of topics:
- Comparing weather models and forecast confidence
- Using Sail Planning to choose the best departure window
- Using Weather Routing to find the safest, most comfortable track
- Understanding wind, waves, and sea-state forecasts along the US Coastal routes
- Working with tidal currents
- Choosing the right onboard systems
- Downloading and managing weather data while underway, using the PredictWind Offshore App
- Sharing your progress using a PredictWind GPS Tracking page