Building Your Sailing Skills – Intermediate Level Training

If you’re an experienced sailor looking to push beyond day trips and master the skills needed for extended coastal cruising, the Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising Standard might be your next big step. Whether you’re dreaming of bareboat chartering in the Mediterranean or planning multi-day adventures in Canadian waters, this course delivers the skills, confidence, and certification you need.

Here are 14 common questions and answers experienced sailors often ask about the Intermediate Cruising Standard—what it is, why it matters, and what to expect from the liveaboard training experience.

Understanding the Intermediate Cruising Standard

1. What is the Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising Standard, and how does it differ from the Basic Cruising Standard?

The Intermediate Standard is the next progression after Basic Cruising. It prepares you to skipper a 30–45 foot cruising keelboat on multi-day, liveaboard trips in tidal waters and unfamiliar areas, both day and night. It covers coastal navigation, passage planning, advanced seamanship, and more.

2. Why should I, as an experienced sailor, take this course?

Even seasoned sailors benefit from the structured learning and assessment. It ensures your skills meet national standards, fills in any knowledge gaps, and boosts your confidence in handling real-world cruising challenges.

3. What kind of practical skills will I gain or refine?

You’ll deepen your proficiency in sail trim, docking in crosswinds, man-overboard drills, night navigation, anchoring in different seabeds, and more. You’ll also practice onboard systems management, provisioning, and crew leadership.

4. Will this certification help with bareboat chartering internationally?

Absolutely. Many charter companies (especially in Europe) recognize the Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising Standard. Pairing it with the International Certificate of Competency (ICC) strengthens your eligibility for chartering abroad.

5. Is the course mostly theory, or hands-on?

It’s a balanced mix. You’ll study topics like tides, weather, collision regulations, and passage planning, then immediately apply them on the water during your liveaboard cruise.

6. How much experience do I need before enrolling?

You’ll need:

• A Basic Cruising Standard

• Proof of at least 10 days as skipper on a cruising sailboat

• Confidence operating a vessel under both sail and power

7. What’s the end goal—what will I be able to do after completing the course?

You’ll be able to safely skipper multi-day trips on a cruising sailboat, plan passages in tidal waters, and handle emergencies at sea. It’s a key stepping stone to serious cruising, chartering, and future instructor-level training.

What to Expect from the Liveaboard Format

8. What does the liveaboard format involve?

The course typically runs for 4 to 7 days aboard the vessel, with all instruction, navigation, cooking, and sleeping taking place on board. It simulates a true cruising lifestyle, making it immersive and realistic.

9. What kind of boat is used during the course?

Most schools use well-equipped cruising sailboats between 30 and 45 feet. These boats have full galley kitchens, heads, and navigation systems to match what you’d encounter on an actual coastal cruise or charter.

10. Will I be expected to cook, clean, and keep watch during the course?

Yes. You’ll share crew responsibilities—meal prep, cleaning, watchkeeping, and boat maintenance. It’s a collaborative environment, just like a real cruise, and a great way to build team sailing and leadership skills.

11. What should I pack for a liveaboard sailing course?

Pack light and smart:

• Non-marking deck shoes, foul-weather gear, and warm layers

• Headlamp, gloves, and a sailing knife

• Personal items like medications, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles
  
  A detailed gear list is usually provided by the sailing school.

12. Will I get to navigate and skipper the boat myself?

Yes. You’ll rotate through all key roles, including acting as skipper, leading a passage, and making critical decisions under instructor supervision. It’s hands-on from the first day to the last.

13. What kind of weather or conditions should I expect?

Expect a variety—sun, wind, rain, and tidal currents. This variability is by design, giving you experience handling a boat and making decisions in real-world coastal conditions.

14. How should I prepare before the course?

Review your:

• Chartwork and navigation theory

• COLREGS (Collision Regulations)

• Tide and current tables

• VHF procedures and knots

You may also be asked to complete pre-course assignments like passage planning or provisioning plans.

Final Thoughts: Why This Course is Worth It

If your sailing ambitions go beyond local waters and afternoon sails, the Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising Standard is an essential investment in your growth. It blends theory and action in a way that’s intensely practical, deeply rewarding, and recognized around the world.

Sailing Strong has Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising Courses scheduled for this year, including a women-only course.  Click here and you’ll learn more about our upcoming courses