The Plan to Get Trained

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Part 3 of Captain Cat's Invincible Plan to Get Cruising:

How much education and training is enough before you shove off on your first really long term voyage? Offshore passage making certifications? First aid courses? Diesel maintenance? Celestial navigation?

It’ll never be enough!

But there are some fundamental courses the Can Opener absolutely must pass before we head out on our merry transatlantic.

Taking care of yours truly is our first priority. Making sure the Can Opener stays safe ranks right up there too. Someone’s got to cut open the clear packs and sauté the deli sausages for my breakfast!

Here’s the sea knowledge and training programme I’ve planned for the Can Opener:

On the Water

• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

   

Theory

• RYA Yachtmaster Stellar Navigation theory - done!
  
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Prep Theory   done!
• RYA Day Skipper Theory   done!

Specialist Courses

• Diesel Engine Maintenance
• Marine Radio Short Range Certificate/VHF Operator done!
• Sea Survival/ Emergency Preparedness
• Offshore Safety
• RYA Offshore First Aid - scheduled May 2013

Other Study

• Courses run by manufacturers on servicing and maintaining their equipment - Feb 2013 - done!
• Electrical Systems and Solar 
• How to catch a fish

That should do it... till I think of something more to decree the Can Opener shall study. Like useful languages for shopping in island markets for breakfast treats… Or electrical systems...

The best thing about sailing is there is always something new to learn. Constant challenges and education. What could be better?

Any critical courses / topics to add to the study list?

--Captain Cat

(transcribed by the Can Opener)

Part 4 of Captain Cat's Invincible Plan to Get Cruising is: The Plan to Find a Boat that Fits.

How to Cruise
Next: Cruising Courses - Cost Survey for 3 Countries
Previously: Sail Training - Where to Get It