Understanding the “Stuff” That Moves Us

This three-part series will equip day sailors, coastal cruisers and offshore voyagers with knowledge of weather systems, sea state conditions, weather charts and the tools they can use to sail safely and fast.  We will learn how to find and use the various weather-related information and electronic apps currently available.  We'll be covering weather systems, storms, tides and currents.  Importantly, students will learn about the difference between paper charts and navigation apps and be updated on NOAA's "sunsetting" of raster products.

Our instructor, Captain Steve Runals, holds a USCG Near Coastal Captain’s License and is a certified ASA Sailing Instructor.  He has extensive coastal and offshore experience and will provide day sailors to offshore cruisers will both technical knowledge and personal, "deck-level" experiences.

Part 1:  Tuesday, March 29, 2022  7-7:45 PM on Zoom

Basic Marine Weather

• A Cruiser’s Perspective on Weather
• Wind – What produces it
• Weather Systems:
  • Defining some terms
  • Understanding midlevel high- and low-pressure systems
  • Fronts
• Introduction to NOAA weather charts

Part 2:  Tuesday, April 5, 2022  7-7:45 PM on Zoom

Understanding and Integrating Forecasts 

• NOAA Weather Charts
• National Weather Service (NWS) Forecasts
• GRIB Files
• Deck-Level Observations

Part 3:  Saturday, April 16, 2022 10 AM-2 PM Classroom Session at FBYC

Learn Hands-On From the Expert

Our instructor, Steve Runals, will cover:

• Squalls, sea states, ocean currents, limited visibility
• Identifying needed communications to access weather information and how to use them
• Differences in paper charts and navigation apps and how they display data
• The implications of NOAA's "sunsetting" of raster products and impact on marine safety
• AND MORE

This on-site classroom session includes lunch and a tour of the FBYC facilities.  Both FBYC and non-members are invited to attend.  The cost for all three sessions is $25 per person. 

Sign-up at:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_51CD4acTRcihhjBQ9o85dQ

For more information, contact Karen Soule, FBYC marketing director at:  karen.soule@gmail.com