Frequently Asked Questions

Do participants have to be fit?

Physical disabilities do not necessarily preclude participation. There is no requirement for a high level of physical fitness on these courses. They involve only a limited amount of physical effort that can be delegated within the group. Courses are certainly not designed or intended as endurance tests.
What if a participant refuses to go on the yacht?

Most fears about this environment can be allayed during pre-course meetings. If a participant is adamant that they will not then an alternative scenario to the programme is developed such that there is a land-based aspect to the course which requires additional planning by the group.
What about Seasickness?

Many people who have felt seasick on a ferry crossing or fishing trip are totally unaffected on a yacht. The motion is different. Anxiety is a cause that is reduced or alleviated by the pre-course briefing.
What about bad weather?

The Solent area is very sheltered so that in all but the most exceptional weather a course would continue in safety. A slightly revised format may be necessary to take advantage of the areas that remain sheltered for the particular conditions prevailing. Land based aspects may occasionally be used.
Are all the tasks based on the yacht?

No. Some courses will contain limited land-based aspects. A sample programme can be viewed here.
Do you only run courses in the Solent?

No, these course can be run in a wide variety of locations, to suit the client and their objectives. One planned course involves a Caribbean desert island (150 x 75 metres), a catamaran and a jungle location with some unique "problems to be solved".
What insurance do you have?

All yachts used have third party liability. Courses are run with an extra £3,000,000 public liability insurance. Personal injury ins can be provided by payment of a small additional premium per participant.
How are the responsibilities for safety and course facilitation split?

There is a clear division of roles. The skipper has responsibility for safety issues. A tutor provides the facilitation for the programme. View details on our safety policy.
What is the usual ratio between time spent on activities and time spent in reviews?

This varies but on average, about 30-40% of time is spent in reviewing activities. At the beginning of a course slightly longer. As the course develops then slightly less. Reviews are introduced during tasks as appropriate, as well as planned 'end of task, end of day and end of course reviews'. A sample programme can be viewed here.
What accommodation is used?

The yachts used are 'self contained' units. Usually up to eight participants will work, sleep and eat on board. This arrangement is flexible, with the inclusion of conference, restaurant and hotel facilities built into a programme as required.