Take a sail training vacation and see more of Nova Scotia's coastline, while further developing your sailing skills. The five-day, on-board Intermediate Course is the perfect next step for those who already have the Basic, and/or Coastal Navigation Courses. This level requires students to undertake all the elements of operating a Thirty Three foot cruising vessel - from planning and provisioning, to charting the course and sailing it to the variety of secluded anchorages and historic seaports along the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Canada.

Towns like Lunenburg (a UNESCO world heritage site) can best be appreciated from the deck of a sailing vessel after cruising the rugged coastline and harbor entrance. Students follow the routes established by the "Salt-Bankers" of old.

Farther west lies the Lahave River estuary with its maze of islands, channels and beaches. A trip upriver brings you to Lahave where a converted ships chandlery offers sail-in fresh baked goods, coffee, and hot showers for those in need. There are plenty of opportunities to see the abundant local wildlife while out cruising - sighting of seals, porpoise, osprey, cormorants, great blue herons, and a variety of shorebirds are quite common. Schools of Mackerel which run during July are extremely plentiful and make for a fine fresh-caught supper! While cruising these waters, there is also the chance of seeing other interesting vessels.

Depending on when you are here during the season, there are opportunities to see passing tall ships attending events in the province. The end of July brings the annual Nova Scotia Schooner Association races as well as Mahone Bay's Classic Boat Festival. Mid August modern and traditional yachts of all sizes will convene in the village of Chester for "Race Week" - the area’s largest annual regatta.

The Intermediate Course combines all of the elements of Coastal Cruising, while still under the watchful eye of a CYA Certified Instructor. The training and experience derived from the session leads to the Intermediate Certification and the ability to sail your own craft; or charter in dozens of interesting locations worldwide in the future. Combine this course with plenty of beautiful coastline, good crew-mates, abundant wildlife, and the sights and sounds of historic seaport towns and you have a salt-water sailing experience to remember!

GET ON BOARD!
Narrowing the gap between watching from shore and enjoying the thrill of Sailing safely and comfortably has never been easier!

Check the current schedule for openings