PALMETTO BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days to Multihull Mastery: Earn Your Catamaran Endorsement Aboard an Excess 11
A focused, two‑day practical US Sailing Cruising Catamaran Endorsement course that teaches multihull handling, docking and onboard systems so sailors can qualify to charter cruising catamarans up to 45 feet.
Two Days to Multihull Mastery: Earn Your Catamaran Endorsement Aboard an Excess 11.
This is a concentrated, two‑day practical course that places students aboard a modern Excess 11 catamaran to develop multihull skills—handling, docking, sail trim, weight distribution and systems management—and to prepare candidates for the US Sailing Cruising Catamaran endorsement needed to charter cruising catamarans up to 45 feet in coastal waters.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands‑on training aboard a modern Excess 11
Instruction is delivered directly on an Excess 11 catamaran, using the boat as both classroom and training platform for real‑world multihull practice.
Multihull‑specific handling, trim and docking
The program concentrates on multihull fundamentals—sail trim, weight distribution and docking techniques—so sailors expand their single‑hull experience into confident multihull command.
Anchoring, mooring and onboard living
Students practice anchoring techniques, mooring operations and man‑overboard procedures, and spend one night on board to work systems management and living‑aboard skills.
What the day feels like
How the two days feel
Expect two intensive days of hands‑on coaching in maneuvering under power and sail, focused drills on docking and mooring, and real‑world exercises such as anchoring and overboard rescue. One night aboard the training catamaran provides practical experience with onboard systems and living aboard, all aimed at readying participants for the endorsement evaluation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The program runs for two days with one night aboard the training catamaran.
Participants should be prepared to spend one night aboard; pack personal overnight items and essentials for a short practical sailing course.
Meet-up and embarkation logistics are arranged through the operator; check the booking details for the precise meeting location.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the course?
The course is two days long and includes one night aboard the catamaran.
Where do participants meet?
The meeting location is Punta Gorda, FL.
What boat is used for training?
Training is conducted aboard a modern Excess 11 catamaran.
What certification does this course provide?
Successful completion prepares participants for the US Sailing Cruising Catamaran endorsement, qualifying them to charter cruising catamarans up to 45 feet in coastal waters.
Who operates this course?
The course is offered by The Bluewater Academy.
Is this appropriate for different ages?
The course is presented for all ages.
What topics are covered during the practical sessions?
Instruction covers multihull handling, docking, sail trim, weight distribution, maneuvering under power and sail, anchoring, mooring and overboard rescue, plus systems management during the overnight.