CCA publishes revised “Safety for Cruising Couples” workbook

Book promotes partnership between skipper and less-experienced crew to increase safety and fun for coastal cruisers

Annapolis, Md. (February 11, 2020). A new, revised and updated edition of the “Safety for Cruising Couples” workbook has been published by the Cruising Club of America. The workbook is part of the CCA’s popular and widely recognized Safety for Cruising Couples seminars offered by clubs and boating groups around the country. The goal is to help raise the competence and confidence of crew who are not generally in command of sailboats and powerboats cruising in coastal waters.
 
“To cruise safely and successfully we need systems and plans that work for everyone aboard — and we need to communicate about those systems and plans,” said Graeme and Janna Esarey, CCA members and experienced cruisers from Seattle, Wash.  “This book helps move the conversation forward among cruising couples so they can sail safely and comfortably together wherever they dream up.”
 
The new, revised Safety for Cruising Couples workbook promotes partnership and teamwork between skipper and crew. It is a “must” for new cruisers and young families with children to improve skills and provide a safer and more enjoyable cruising experience, said veteran cruiser Ron Trossbach, a CCA member and the workbook’s technical editor, based in Annapolis, Md. The book is also a good refresher course for experienced cruisers to update their skills, Trossbach said.

The workbook focuses on helping a less-experienced crewmember learn what to do if they are suddenly in command during an emergency. Chapters include how to prepare your own boat and crew before leaving the dock, updated basics about electronic navigation aids, how to call for help using a VHF radio and how to deal with various onboard emergencies. One section describes ways to learn and practice man overboard skills. Practice sessions, checklists and additional resources are also included.
 
While the workbook is aimed at the less-experienced crewmember, there are suggestions for skippers to help share their expertise and to recognize ways to change or modify systems or equipment to make dealing with emergencies easier and more efficient on their own powerboat or sailboat. 
 
The revised workbook and seminar presentation materials were developed as a public service by CCA, and more than two dozen organizations have staged seminars using the previous edition in the last four years.
 
Contact Ron Trossbach, 703-403-8408 or click here for more, including hosting or attending a Safety for Cruising Couples seminar, or to purchase the workbook separately.