A unique opportunity to take a learn-to-cruise class with other women, taught by a woman.
Note: Things have changed since I published this post. The class is now open to both men and women (including couples, of course). It’s a great opportunity to cruise the Pacific Northwest while learning single engine trawler handling. I hope you’ll consider joining me! – Maria
I’m taking a slight departure from my usual Great Loop specific content to put this out to readers, especially women who want to learn or build power boating skills.
I’ve taken a part time position with San Juan Sailing & Yachting (SJS&Y) based in Bellingham, WA, as an American Boating certificated power boat instructor. On May 15, 2025, I’ll be teaching a 5-day Learn and Cruise class on a 42 foot Nordic Tug. This class, which currently only has one student (and will max out at 4) is set up for Women Only.
If you’re contemplating cruising the Loop, either alone or with a partner, and have limited boating skills, this is a great way to build them while cruising the San Juan Islands for five days with other women. We’ll be island hopping, exploring marinas, anchorages, mooring balls, and waterways. And because the class will be taught by a Gold Looper, you’ll be able to tap into first hand knowledge about the kinds of conditions and situations you’ll find on the Great Loop. Best of all, I think you’ll see a lot of similarities between the San Juan Islands and Lake Champlain and Georgian Bay if you decide to travel either of those places on your Great Loop trip.
If you’re interested, please contact the folks at SJS&Y directly for details. You can reach them by phone at 360-671-8339.
I’d sure like to see you on board!
