NauticEd Prerequisites
Checklist
Complete these online theory courses before your practical training in St. Martin. All courses are available through NauticEd and can be completed at your own pace.
Why Prerequisites Matter
The 6-day St. Martin practical training is intensive and hands-on. To maximize your on-water learning time, NauticEd requires that students complete foundational theory courses before arriving. This ensures:
- All students start with the same theoretical foundation
- More time for practical skills during the course
- Better understanding of safety procedures and COLREGs
- Eligibility for NauticEd SLC + SLC certification
Required Online Courses
Complete these NauticEd courses before your practical training
Skipper Course
RequiredThe foundation course covering skipper responsibilities, crew management, passage planning, and decision making. Essential knowledge for anyone taking command of a vessel.
Coastal Navigation
RequiredMaster chart reading, plotting courses, understanding tides and currents, GPS navigation, and pilotage techniques for coastal sailing.
Sail Trim
RequiredLearn proper sail trim for all points of sail, understanding sail shape, reefing procedures, and optimizing performance.
Rules of the Road (COLREGs)
RequiredEssential knowledge of international collision regulations, right of way, navigation lights, sound signals, and safe navigation practices.
Anchoring
RequiredComprehensive anchoring techniques including anchor selection, scope calculation, setting and retrieving, anchor alarms, and troubleshooting.
Recommended Courses
These additional courses will enhance your practical training experience
Catamaran Sailing Confidence
RecommendedMaster catamaran-specific handling, docking, and maneuvering techniques. Highly recommended since you'll be training on a Bali catamaran.
Maneuvering Under Power
RecommendedClose quarters maneuvering, docking, prop walk understanding, and marina operations. Essential for confident boat handling.
Weather
RecommendedUnderstanding weather patterns, reading forecasts, and making go/no-go decisions based on conditions.
Safety at Sea
RecommendedEmergency procedures, safety equipment, man overboard recovery, and crisis management.
Pre-Course Checklist
Complete these steps before your arrival in St. Martin
Complete Required NauticEd Courses
Skipper, Coastal Navigation, Sail Trim, COLREGs, and Anchoring
Submit Pre-Course Experience Questionnaire
We'll send this after booking — complete at least 2 weeks before arrival
Book Flights to St. Martin (SXM)
Princess Juliana International Airport — arrive by noon on Day 1
Arrange Travel Insurance
Ensure coverage for sailing activities and emergency evacuation
Pack Appropriate Gear
Light clothing, non-marking deck shoes, sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket
Bring Valid Passport
Required for multi-island passages to Anguilla (British) and St. Barts (French)
Review Course Materials
Refresh your NauticEd course notes before arrival
Total Preparation Time
35-45
hours for required courses
20+
hours for recommended courses
4-6
weeks suggested lead time
We recommend starting your online courses at least 4-6 weeks before your practical training date. All courses can be paused and resumed at any time.
Ready to Get Started?
Book your St. Martin practical training, then start your NauticEd courses