How to Avoid Running Aground: Essential Sailing Navigation Tips | Ep. 49 | Sailing Virgins

Don't become a shipwreck! In this episode, Sailing Virgins instructor Finn shares essential navigation tips to help you avoid running aground while sailing in the beautiful (but reef-filled) British Virgin Islands. ? EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction: The importance of avoiding shipwrecks 00:25 Episode overview with Instructor Finn 00:42 BVI reefs and shallow water challenges 01:00 Common causes of running aground 01:37 Charts and research for reef navigation 02:16 The importance of slow speeds in shallow areas 02:43 Understanding your depth sounder readings 03:17 Reading water color as a depth indicator 03:57 Using lighthouses and cardinal markers 04:52 Katie navigating off a mooring ball 06:01 Exploring pristine Prickly Pear Island Whether you're new to sailing or looking to brush up on your skills, these practical tips will help you navigate reef areas safely. Plus, follow along as Katie navigates off a mooring ball for the first time, and join us at stunning Prickly Pear Island - home to some of the most breathtaking turquoise waters in the Caribbean (with Richard Branson's island nearby!). ? SUBSCRIBE for new sailing tutorials every week: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3GnJXddokWeTd_iee1TitA ? MERCH: https://shop.sailingvirgins.com/ ? JOIN OUR COURSES: https://sailingvirgins.com/sailing/courses #SailingTips #NavigationSkills #SailingVirgins #BVISailing #AvoidRunningAground #CaribbeanSailing #SailingTutorial #LearnToSail #SailingCourse We at Sailing Virgins are creating instructional videos on how to sail that aren't lame! Join us as we travel through the Caribbean, Croatia, Tahiti, and more and show you the ropes, literally. ---- We are the world's #1 sailing school for millennials-lessons, courses, classes in the Caribbean, Croatia, and Tahiti.