www.traceyschool.com ASA Sailing Instruction for Keelboats and Catamarans located in NJ and FL

What do I bring to school?
Sailing is an outdoor sport, so dress and prepare accordingly. Pack a small bag with extra warm, dry clothes plus rain gear and sailing gloves. Please bring sun block with a high SPF, a wide brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses. The reflection off the water vastly increases the likelihood of a serious sunburn and eye strain. If you have a favorite PFD (personal flotation device) bring it along or one will be provided for you. Bring a lunch, snacks and plenty of bottled water. Please do not bring items in glass containers. Small coolers are fine. Course materials will be provided.
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What about sailing school and the weather?
If the weather is cool, you can count on it being cooler out on the water. If there is wind, you should expect more wind on the water. If it is sunny, regardless of temperature, it will be sunnier out on the water. The very first lesson we teach is: Be Prepared. We will not go sailing in reduced visibility (fog), threat of lightning storms, or during small craft warnings or worse. If there is a chance of rain showers, we may go sailing until it rains. We will not sail in a steady rain. We will stay dry and warm in our classroom and spend more time on the water another day. In the summer months typically a 10-15 knot cooling sea breeze develops in the afternoon, providing perfect conditions for sailing.
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Will I get seasick?
Typically the wave action on the bay does not induce seasickness. If you are concerned, bring Bonine (my preferred choice), Dramamine or other form of seasickness medicine. A can of Ginger Ale can help too.
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Will Tracey School refund my money due to inclement weather?
No. We reschedule.
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What kind of boat will I be learning on?
Basic Keelboat courses are taught on 22 -23 ft. keelboat with a tiller and outboard. Basic coastal Cruising is taught on a Hunter 28.5 with a wheel and inboard diesel. Bareboat Charter for monohull is taught on an Island Packet 45. Cruising Catamaran and Bareboat Charter is taught on a 41 ft. Maine Cat.
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Is there home study?
You bet. There is a lot to know and we would rather be out sailing than indoors lecturing. A few hours of your spare time will be all that is required. When you sign up for a course, the text material will be sent to you in advance so you may get a head start.
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What's with all those funny words?
That's why we send you the text first! The language of sailing seems very strange and takes some getting used too. You asked why? Well, if I told you to pull in "that line", which one would you pull? There can be many many lines (ropes) on a boat so each one has a specific name. In fact ALL parts on a boat have a specific name. It's confusing at first, but you will thank us later and impress your friends knowing what all those funny words mean!
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How much time is required?
It depends on the course. See the Rates page or detailed course descriptions for a courses schedule.
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Will I pass?
Yes you will, if you try. You will definitely learn and you will definitely have fun while learning.
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Are there restaurants nearby for lunch?
Yes, but we recommend bringing a lunch and plenty of liquids. We strive to be on the water ahead of schedule and have lunch out on the bay.
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Can I go sailing on my own?
Sure. After you pass your course we will charter you a 22 - 23 ft. keelboat for a half day. See our Rates page for details.
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Is there a bathroom (on a boat it's called a "head") onboard?
Yes.
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How do I pay for Tracey School?
We accept all major credit cards, cash and checks.
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Can I pay online?
No. We want to speak with you about our courses. Once you book a course, half payment is due and the other half is paid on your first day of class.
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Will I get into a class?
First come, first serve. Our classes are small. If your thinking about attending Tracey School for Sailing Instruction then call us right away to discuss your course.
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