The first discipline of good seamanship is to know everything about your boat. You should know your boat's construction, layout, carrying capacity, limitations, and capabilities. Be familiar with equipment and where it is stowed to the point that you can locate and operate it in the dark. You should also get to know your boat’s propulsion, electric, and power systems, and how to deal with common problems.
The Canadian Yachting Association's Learn to Sail standards provide safe, standardized tuition for racing and recreation in sailing dinghies. The introduction comprises White Sail Levels I, II and III. Sailors are introduced to advanced sailing techniques in Bronze Sail Levels IV and V. Silver Sail Level VI and Gold Sail Level VII complete the sylabus, introducing sailors to racing
The International Yachtmaster Training programme was introduced in 2001. This article looks at the first 5 sections: Introduction to Yachting Certificate, The International Recreational Crew Certificate, Radio Operator/Communications Certificate, Watchkeeper/Flotilla Skipper Certificate, International Bareboat Skipper Certificate
