April 9, 2020

Adjustments, Opportunities; Good News Face Shields

News and Adjustments

Currently, Northern Breezes Sailing and Northern Breezes Youth Sailing Foundation are open for registrations, phone calls, planning, curriculum development and some boat maintenance. Most of this activity is taking place from either formal home offices or "home". We look forward to the sailing season, but must report that all of the marinas we do business with are closed to the general public. At this time, the safety of our students, staff and volunteers is our top priority.

Several of our graduates are trying to live the good life of "Cruisers". Living aboard their boats while exploring the Caribbean. These small Caribbean nations have taken quick, decisive action to protect their citizens due to their limited medical capabilities should they see even a few by our standards Covid-19 cases requiring hospitalization or quarantine. The net effect on our graduate friends who are sailing the Caribbean is that they are NOT allowed to come ashore. This is the "Cruise Ship" fear gone amok!

In Minnesota, family units who live in the same domicile can boat together. No groups, no guests, no family from different residences nor rafting parties, beach gatherings; these are all in violation of the governor's orders.

Ashore at home. We want to make available to you and encourage you to take a look at our online portfolio of courses offered with Starpath School of Navigation. I have personally taken Starpath Courses at the Instructor level. They are thorough, well-organized and with a serious “depth” of knowledge and research behind them which is unmatched in anything I’ve seen in our twenty-one years of operating a sailing school. You can also take them at your own pace. Every online quiz is graded by and commented by a real person!

Afloat on-the-water. Our first on-the-water classes are scheduled for May 3rd. Customers scheduled in May can expect a more detailed letter via email with options based on current guidance. We hope to be able to welcome you aboard on the water. There will have to be adjustments in how we conduct classes for sure. We will continue to communicate as the situation evolves