FAQ
Miami Sailing School ™ FAQ's
Below is a list of all the MSS FAQ's
1. About the Sailing School (Miami Sailing School ™)
Q: What makes Miami Sailing School ™ different from other sailing schools?
A: Miami Sailing School ™ offers expert instruction by Captain Russ, a US Coast Guard-licensed and ASA-certified instructor. Students learn in Biscayne Bay’s protected waters aboard a luxury 42 foot Catalina 400 MKII sailboat.
Q: Do I need any prior experience to take sailing lessons?
A: No prior experience is necessary! Courses are tailored for all skill levels—from complete beginners to advanced sailors.
Q: What type of sailboat will I be learning on?
A: Students learn on a 42 foot Catalina 400 MKII, a modern, spacious, and well-equipped training sailboat.
Q: Where does the sailing instruction take place?
A: Lessons are held in Biscayne Bay, known for its calm waters and stunning scenery—ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors.
2. Essential Sailing Gear (from “Essential Gear Checklist for New Sailors”)
Q: What essential clothing should I bring for sailing?
A: Items include UV-protective clothing, non-slip shoes, hats, sunglasses, and a lightweight rain jacket.
Q: Which safety equipment is critical for new sailors?
A: Always bring a life jacket (PFD), whistle, waterproof flashlight, and a fully charged handheld VHF radio.
Q: What personal care items should sailors pack?
A: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, reusable water bottles, and seasickness medication are highly recommended.
3. ASA Certification Courses
Q: What ASA certifications are offered at Miami Sailing School ™?
A: Miami Sailing School ™ offers ASA 101 (Basic Keelboat), ASA 103 (Coastal Cruising), ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising), ASA 114 (Cruising Catamaran), and more.
Q: Why should I get ASA certified?
A: ASA certification builds credibility and skill, making it easier to rent or charter boats globally and pursue advanced sailing adventures.
4. Advanced Courses and Catamaran Training
Q: What is taught in the ASA 114 Cruising Catamaran course?
A: Students learn handling, docking, and anchoring catamarans, plus advanced navigation skills and liveaboard seamanship.
Q: How does catamaran sailing differ from monohull sailing?
A: Catamarans offer stability, wider decks, and different handling techniques that are especially useful for offshore and cruising voyages.
5. Safety and Hurricane Readiness
Q: How should boat owners prepare for hurricanes?
A: Secure the vessel with additional lines, remove all loose gear, use chafe protection, and consider hauling out smaller boats.
Q: When should a boat evacuation plan be activated?
A: As soon as a hurricane warning is issued, and definitely before tropical storm winds begin.
6. Sailing Tips and Advice
Q: What key skills should every new sailor practice?
A: Mastering sail trimming, understanding wind direction, effective docking, and learning basic navigation.
Q: How does Biscayne Bay help sailors learn better?
A: It offers protected waters, diverse sailing conditions, and breathtaking wildlife encounters, providing both safe practice and real-world experience.