Training
Basic Training
The Basic Training Course is offered annually in the spring. Students must be NIH/NOAA employees, patients, or on-site contractors, and must have a current annual Preferred Membership of the NIH R&W Association. The class signup fee of $330 includes the annual NIHSA membership dues ($70) and the course fee ($260).
The Basic Training Course comprises 6 evening classroom sessions and 4 training sails in the Club’s Flying Scots on the South River near Annapolis, including an on-board exam. The onboard class size is kept small, with two students and one instructor per boat. Students completing the Basic Training course qualify to sail the Club’s Flying Scots for low charter fees.
For more information about training, or to reserve a space in the next class, contact the NIHSA Training Coordinator.
Spring 2024 Basic Training Class: April 2 - May 21
Registration for the Spring 2024 Basic Training Class is now open. For information on registration, please contact the NIHSA Training Coordinator. The onboard class size is kept small, with two students and one instructor per boat and thus limits class size.
Onboard Coaching
Just like our onboard classes, the refresher training groups will be kept small, with two students per coach. The coaching program is geared toward people who have completed the class, but don’t feel comfortable to charter at this point. Did you miss a sailing season or two? Then this program is for you! The price of $25 per person per sail includes your part of the charter fee, and a nominal fee for the refresher sail. Contact the NIHSA on-board coaching coordinator to arrange a time.
Advanced Training
NIHSA Advanced Training offerings vary from year to year based on available instructors and club interest. It has included a hands-on big boat cruising course (The Big Boat Experience), celestial navigation, piloting courses, and various clinics and seminars.
Work With Us and Learn!
On Saturday mornings in March, the club works on the boats to get them ready for launch. If you would like to meet club members and gain experience in maintaining the boats, you are welcome to come and help. Check the calendar on the homepage for exact times and dates.
Also, did you know that current NIHSA members can attend the six classroom sessions of the basic training class for free? Contact the NIHSA training team if you are interested.