👉 If you’re in the US or Canada and want to charter in the Mediterranean, use the link to start your SLC - https://sailing-blog.nauticed.org/how-to-gain-your-slc-mediterranean-sailing-license?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=xAxgzsNPKug Live in the United States or Canada and told you “must get your ICC” to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean? In this video we explain how to actually get a license that works for Med charters when you’re based in North America. Many Mediterranean yacht charter companies tell you that you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence). But they’re often using “ICC” like an eponym—just like saying you’re going to “Google” something. What they really mean is that you need a recognized sailing license that their country and their insurance accept. In North America, getting an ICC is difficult because it’s issued through the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) in the UK and there are limited options here. That’s why, if you’re in the US or Canada, the practical path is to get your SLC (Sailing License and Credentials) instead. In this video, you’ll learn: - Why charter companies in the Med keep saying “you need an ICC” - Why it’s hard to obtain an ICC when you live in the US or Canada - What the SLC is and why it’s a good option if you’re in North America - How the SLC is written into law in Croatia and listed by their ministry as an acceptable license - Why major charter companies (like The Moorings, Sunsail, Dream Yacht Charter, Navigare, and others) will tell you “yes, of course” when you ask if the SLC works in the Med 00:00 - Need an ICC to charter in the Med? 00:14 - What License do you need 00:24 - Why getting an ICC is hard in the US & Canada (RYA in the UK) 00:37 - SLC: the practical license if you live in North America 00:50 - The Moorings, Sunsail, Dream Yacht, Navigare and ask about the SLC 01:07 - Live in the US or Canada? Get your SLC via the link in the description #sailing #bareboatcharter #catamaran #bareboat

CAPTAIN OFFSHORE SAILING COURSE BUNDLE - https://www.nauticed.org/bundle/view/captain?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=GBRQa1SmSAM LRSE - https://www.lrse.com Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) save lives. In this NauticEd safety episode, we break down exactly how a personal locator beacon works, why every offshore sailor and coastal cruiser should carry one, and how new AIS MOB and DSC-enabled PLBs tie into your VHF radio and chartplotter. We start with a real rescue story, then walk through 406 MHz PLB technology, registration and hex IDs, global satellite coverage, and how PLBs differ from classic EPIRBs. You’ll see how to wear and activate a PLB correctly, when it’s appropriate to use one (life-threatening emergencies only), and why combining 406 MHz + AIS PLB beacons (like the Rescue Link 450) gives you the fastest possible path to rescue. In this video you’ll learn: What a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is and how 406 MHz satellite alerts reach rescue services How PLB registration, hex IDs, and databases help rescuers know who you are Where PLBs are used: offshore sailing, coastal cruising, hiking, fishing, camping How to carry, deploy the antenna, and activate a PLB safely The difference between PLBs, EPIRBs, AIS MOB beacons, and DSC-linked devices How AIS and DSC alerts show up on nearby vessels’ multifunction displays & VHF radios Why combo PLB + AIS units are ideal for coastal cruising and man overboard situations If you’re serious about boating safety, offshore passagemaking, or man overboard (MOB) preparedness, this PLB guide will help you choose and use the right beacon with confidence. 00:00 – Real PLB Rescue Story: Why Personal Locator Beacons Save Lives 00:24 – What Is a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)? 00:34 – How PLBs Work: 406 MHz, Satellites & Registration Hex IDs 01:06 – Where PLBs Are Used: Boating, Hiking, Fishing & Camping 01:21 – How to Carry & Activate a PLB Safely 01:53 – When to Use a PLB: Life-Threatening Emergencies Only 02:04 – PLB vs EPIRB: Mini EPIRBs & 406 MHz Beacons 02:23 – AIS MOB Beacons: Personal Locator Beacons with AIS 03:00 – AIS & DSC Integration: MMSI, VHF Radios & Man Overboard Alerts 03:50 – Combo PLB + AIS: Rescue Link 450 for Coastal Cruising 04:24 – Why AIS PLBs Help Nearby Boats Rescue You Faster #sailboat #sailing

A visit with Jude Morel, captain of Lonestar an 85 ft catamaran in the Seychelles and Madagascar

Nav Rules Course - https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/navigation-rules-for-powerboats New England Propeller - https://neprop.com Where are prop markings? In this quick guide, we show common locations—hub/barrel exterior, under the prop nut/washer, and blade root. We also flag a key gotcha: reworked props (repitched, cupped, or trimmed) may not match the stamp—so confirm with a prop shop or measurement before you buy. You’ll see (fast): • Marking locations: hub, under-nut, blade root • Caveat: adjusted props ≠ original stamp (how to double-check)

SKIPPER LARGE POWER COURSE (4.9/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) : https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/skipper-large-power-boat?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=5kQze6vR5CQ New England Propeller - https://neprop.com What is a Sharrow Marine propeller and why does it feel different? This walkthrough explains the looped (infinity) blade design—a CNC-machined prop that draws water from farther away, re-focuses flow, and aims to improve mid-range efficiency and handling when properly sized to your engine. Reported benefits when correctly propped: - Fuel efficiency: can show ~20–30% improvement, increasing range on the same tank - Reverse thrust: up to ~50% more, making docking and close-quarters work easier - Handling: tighter turning and more predictable maneuvering - Comfort: reduced vibration vs. many conventional props - Top end: generally maintains similar top speed; this is a mid-range performance prop, not a pure go-fast upgrade 00:00 - Sharrow Marine Prop 00:10 - How it Works 00:30 - Overview of Advantages 01:10 - Sizing 01:26 - Outro

Free Nav Rules Course - https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/navigation-rules-for-powerboats?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=lSg1tKSKTEk New England Propeller - https://neprop.com Prop strike after hitting a rock or the bottom? This guide explains why you should NOT DIY a prop repair and what to do next. The damage you can’t see—pitch shift, blade alignment, balance/runout—can quickly lead to vibration, lower-unit wear (outboard/sterndrive), or cutlass-bearing damage (inboard). Home tools can’t measure pitch/balance accurately; a professional prop shop uses pitch blocks, runout gauges, and balancing equipment and provides before/after reports so you know it’s right. What we cover: - Don’t DIY: Grinding material off a blade makes imbalance and weakens the prop - Hidden damage: Pitch moved, blade alignment off, hub issues—even if it looks “okay” Inspect after a strike: - Outboard/IO: prop, edges, hub, lower unit (leaks, noise, metal in oil) - Inboard: prop, shaft, strut, rudder, cutlass bearing (play/heat) - Aluminum vs stainless: Aluminum with big metal missing is often not cost-effective to repair Stainless is pricier and more repairable—worth professional work - Twin props: If one looks bent, “just check” the other—often both need work - Fix it promptly: Running with vibration accelerates wear and raises costs - What a shop does: Measure pitch, correct alignment, true & balance; provide pre/post reports Quick After-Strike Checklist: Stop DIY ideas—no hammers, torches, or grinding Visual check: nicks, bends, cracks, missing edge, cup/rake distortion Spin test: obvious wobble/runout at blade tips Lower unit / seal check (OB/IO): new drips, milky/metallic oil, noise Inboard gear: shaft straightness, strut alignment, cutlass bearing play Bring it in: ask the prop shop for measurement + balance and a report FAQ Can I repair a bent boat prop at home? No. Without pitch blocks and balancing, you risk worse vibration and drivetrain damage. How do I know if my prop is too damaged to fix? Large metal loss on aluminum is often a replace call. Stainless can usually be repaired by a shop. What symptoms show hidden prop/shaft damage? New vibration bands, loss of WOT RPM, leaks at seals, heat at cutlass bearing, metal in gear oil. Why fix it quickly after a prop strike? Running out of balance stresses the lower unit, bearings, seals, and mounts, increasing repair costs. 00:00 - Intro 00:16 - Fixing it Yourself 00:39 - Vibration Wear 00:57 - After Strike Checklist 01:10 - How Damaged is To Damaged 01:33 - Damage You Can't See 02:09 - Outro #powerboat #boating #boat

FREE SAIL TRIM COURSE (4.95/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 19,016 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/basic-sail-trim?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=MX8i42Y5ABc R&W Rope - https://www.rwrope.com What does “stretch” in sailing lines actually mean—and how does it affect sail shape, trim, speed, and comfort? In this clear, practical guide we explain elongation (% stretch), how rope makers specify it (e.g., % at a stated load), and why material choice (polyester, nylon, Dyneema) changes sailing performance. What you’ll learn What “stretch” means: % elongation at a defined load (often reported at a % of break or a working load) On-water impact: sail shape stability, pointing, trim consistency, shock loading, crew comfort 00:00 - Intro 00:21 - Stretch Standards / How Stretch is Defined 01:40 - Impact on Sailing Performance 03:01 - Outro

Docking Course: Sail: https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/maneuvering-under-power Power: https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/skipper-large-powerboat R&W Rope - https://www.rwrope.com This is the complete guide to dock lines—everything you need to choose, size, and set up lines that protect your boat and make docking easier. We cover diameter by boat size, recommended lengths for bow, stern, and spring lines, three-strand vs double braid, and how to stop chafe with simple, affordable gear. You’ll finish with a ready-to-use kit list and confidence to tie up anywhere. What you’ll learn Diameter: simple rules by LOA/displacement (+ when to size up) Lengths: bow/stern vs spring lines Material choice: three-strand vs double braid Nylon vs Polyester Chafe protection: where it happens, what gear to use, how to rig it Eye splices & ends 00:00 - Intro 00:22 - 3-Strand vs Double Braid 00:37 - What is Stretch 00:57 - Sizing / Diameter 01:47 - Length of Dock Lines 02:35 - Preventing Chafe 03:36 - Sizing an Eye 04:29 - Recommendations on Dock Lines 05:29 - Custom Dock Lines / Outro #boating #docking #sailing #boat

Nav Rules Course - https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/navigation-rules-for-powerboats New England Propeller - https://neprop.com What is propeller pitch? Think of it as how far a prop would move forward in one revolution—like the “gear” of your boat. Higher pitch = lower RPM. Lower pitch = higher RPM. In this quick guide, we show how pitch choices affect engine RPM, WOT targets, and on-water performance so you can pick the right prop for your setup. You’ll learn (fast): • The plain-English definition of pitch • How pitch changes RPM, • Why hitting your WOT RPM range matters #boating #propeller #centerconsoles #powerboat

Sail Trim Course - https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/basic-sail-trim R&W Rope - https://www.rwrope.com Keep your running rigging safe, smooth, and long-lasting. In this complete guide, we cover what degrades sailing lines (UV, salt, abrasion, heat/glazing, shock loads, chemicals), how to inspect halyards/sheets/control lines, when to replace, and the simple routines that extend service life—washing, drying, chafe protection, end-for-ending, and smart storage. What you’ll learn Degradation sources: UV, salt crystals, abrasion at hardware, heat/glazing on winches/clutches, shock loading, chemical exposure Inspection routine: sheath fuzz/pilling, core exposure, flat/hard spots, glazing/melt, hockles, stiffness, cover-to-core slippage, discoloration/mildew When to replace: exposed or damaged core, severe glazing or deep cuts, persistent hockles/twists, hard/flat spots near winch/clutch zones, slip in splices/terminations Make lines last: freshwater rinse, mild wash (no bleach/solvents), dry out of sun, chafe gear at rub points, fairlead alignment, correct clutch/winch sizing, reduce sharp wrap angles, end-for-end rotation, retire high-load lines to lighter duty, splice out worn sections, whip ends properly #sailing #sailor #sailboat

Nav Rules Course - https://www.nauticed.org/powerboating-courses/view/navigation-rules-for-powerboats New England Propeller - https://neprop.com Confused by prop specs? In this full, plain-English guide with New England Propeller, we break down what diameter, pitch, rake, cup, and DAR (disc area ratio) actually mean—and how each affects acceleration, top speed, fuel economy, and handling. We’ll show you how to read prop markings, verify the real specs when stamps are worn, understand progressive vs. constant pitch, and identify left-hand vs. right-hand rotation (and when it matters). What you’ll learn: - Diameter, pitch, rake, cup, DAR—simple definitions + on-water impact - How to read/confirm prop markings (even if the stamp is faded) - Progressive vs. constant pitch: holeshot, mid-range, and efficiency trade-offs - Left-hand vs. right-hand rotation: how to tell, twin setups, and docking effects - Practical tips to talk to a prop shop with confidence #boating #propeller #sailing #boat #powerboat

FREE SAIL TRIM COURSE : https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/basic-sail-trim?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=EtjsWLgIVdc R&W Rope - https://www.rwrope.com Learn exactly what a soft shackle is, when to use one instead of metal, and how to measure and size it correctly. We cover materials (Dyneema), strength and working load, common applications (sheets, halyards, anchors, towing, dinghy lifts), and the most frequent mistakes to avoid—so you rig safer and smarter. What you’ll learn Soft shackle basics: parts, terms, and how they work How to measure for the right fit Best practices for use Real-world use cases #sailing #sailor #boating #catamaran

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence If you're trying to get your catamaran into a T-head and the wind is coming from directly head, a really good way to get the catamaran in is to use a technique called ferrying the boat. The way that you do this is you stop parallel to the position with your boat angled towards the dock. Then use opposing engines to maintain that angle - knowing that the wind will want to turn your bow downwind. Also, the wind wants to push your boat downwind, and so you use the engines to maintain your position parallel to the dock. In this manner, your boat will crab sideways to the wind directly into your dock position. Once in the dock position, spin the boat to align it to the dock and put on the forward bow line 1st. #catamaran #sailing #catamaransailing

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence A complete, practical guide to docking a twin-engine catamaran on a T-head (T-dock/face dock/Fuel Dock). We combine all the key techniques—spin in place, 45° approach, bow-line-first, ferry-glide sideways, and reverse-in—and show how to choose the right method for headwind, tailwind, and off-/on-dock winds. Clear, repeatable steps you can use on Lagoon, Leopard, Fountaine Pajot, Bali, and other cats. What you’ll learn Approach logic: ◽️When to use a 45° approach, when to back in, and when to ferry-glide parallel. ◽️Engine control: Opposing-engine timing, neutral pauses, and low-RPM finesse for tight marinas. ◽️Wind strategy: Headwind vs. tailwind vs. blow-off/blow-on—how to let wind help (not hurt). ◽️Line order that works: Fast bow loop to stop the blow-off, then stern and spring lines for control. ◽️Fenders & setup: Height, spacing, and where to stand crew for clean hand-offs. ◽️Abort & reset: How to read a bad setup early, bail out safely, and re-approach with control. ◽️Common mistakes (and fixes): Over-throttling, losing the bow, drifting past the slot, line-handling errors. Practice plan: Simple drills to build muscle memory before busy fuel docks or crosswinds. Chapters ✅Approach & risk checks • Choosing the method for today’s wind ✅Spin-in-place refresher • 45° approach (headwind) ✅Wind pinning you onto the dock (hold parallel, make fast) ✅Wind blowing you off the dock (bow-line-first sequence) ✅Tailwind strategy: pass the slot, reverse-in, align with opposing engines ✅Lines & fenders—fast, safe hand-offs • Abort & try again ✅Quick practice routine Who this is for: New cat owners, charter skippers, and monohull sailors moving to cats who want calm, drama-free T-head landings in real marinas. Next step: If this helped, save the video and check out our full Catamaran Maneuvering course for deeper drills, checklists, and docking scenarios. #catamaran #sailing #docking

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence When you want to bring a catamaran to a tea head with the wind blowing you off the dock, the best way is to approach at about a 45° angle and then once the bow of the boat gets close to the tea head, it is a good idea to loop a bow dock line to the dock. This prevents the bow from being blown away from the dock when you are spinning the boat into the dock. Once the bow dock line is on, spin the catamaran to the dock using opposing engines and hold the engines on until you get the Stern dock line on - as well as a bow spring line. #catamaran #sailing #catamaransailing

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence If you're trying to get your catamaran into a T-head and the wind is coming from directly head, a really good way to get the catamaran in is to use a technique called ferrying the boat. The way that you do this is you stop parallel to the position with your boat angled towards the dock. Then use opposing engines to maintain that angle - knowing that the wind will want to turn your bow downwind. Also, the wind wants to push your boat downwind, and so you use the engines to maintain your position parallel to the dock. In this manner, your boat will crab sideways to the wind directly into your dock position. Once in the dock position, spin the boat to align it to the dock and put on the forward bow line 1st. #catamaran #sailing #catamaransailing

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence When you're going to maneuver your catamaran into a t-head position and the wind is coming from behind. it can be a little tricky. A big mistake is to try to drive the boat right into the slot. If you try that you're more than likely going to end up banging into the boat in front. Instead, go past your slot and back into the T head. Use opposing engines to spin your boat appropriately and back your boat into the slot. Once it is in, use opposing engines again to straighten the boat up and then attach the aft dock line 1st to stabilize the boat. #sailing #catamaran #bareboatcharter

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence When you want to dock your catamaran onto a T-head position, and the wind is blowing you directly onto the dock. You simply take advantage of the wind. Just pull alongside your slot and then allow the wind to push you towards the dock. Use opposing engines to keep the boat parallel to the dock while the wind is pushing you in. Once against the dock, tie your dock lines. It really doesn't matter which line you put on first because the wind is holding you against the dock. #sailing #catamaran #catamaransailing #sailor

CATAMARAN SAILING CONFIDENCE | ONLINE COURSE (4.86/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 1,336 Reviews): https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/catamaran-sailing-confidence When you want to dock your catamaran to a t-head when the wind is coming from forward, it's pretty simple. All you're going to do is drive your boat almost directly into the dock position at about a 45° angle. Make sure your boat is going nice and slow once you are at the dock, and then use opposing engines to spin the catamaran to align it with the dock. Then attach the forward dock line 1st to stabilize the boat. #sailing #catamaran #catamaransailing #docking