Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring with me to the seminar?
All participants are required to bring the following: (1) Nautical Almanac For The Year 2027, (2) Sight Reduction Publication H.O. 249 Vol 2, (3) pad of universal plotting sheets, (4) dividers, (5) parallel rulers or equivalent, (6) sharp pencils (with erasers!). Optional for this class: H.O. 249 Vol 1 and Vol 3. We will be doing lots of problems and each student needs to have their own publications and plotting equipment.
Where can I get the required publications?
Celestaire carries all that is required (use Code MMSD for a 10% discount at Celestaire) as does Landfall Navigation. The U.S. Government Bookstore carries the Nautical Almanac For The Year 2027. As of July 2026 the Government Bookstore has the 2027 Nautical Almanac in stock, other outlets should have the 2027 Almanac in the Fall.
Why are we using a Nautical Almanac For The Year 2027, it’s 2026?
Using a Nautical Almanac For The Year 2027 (vs. 2026) means you don’t have to buy a new Almanac next year when you want to get out on the water to use your new skills. Also, all the practice problems in the course are being written for 2027.
Should I bring a sextant?
If you have one, please bring it along. If the weather cooperates we will try to get outside to take some practice sights. We will have a couple of additional sextants on hand.
Will there be refreshments during the day?
During the day we will have coffee, water and some light snacks available, plus a box lunch or similar. Gloucester has many great restaurants and pubs for your evening entertainment.
Where can we stay locally?
There are many hotels, small inns, and Airbnbs in the Gloucester area and many more within a half hour drive in other North Shore towns.
What is the refund policy?
Your payment, via our secure PayPal link, is your registration for the full 2-day seminar. Cancel before September 30, 2026 and we will refund 50% or you can apply the full amount towards a future seminar.
How does the Marion Bermuda Race (“MBR”) treat boats using celestial navigation?
The MBR Notice of Race states: "A boat electing to race using celestial navigation must make that choice by June 9, 2027 and shall meet the conditions in Attachment A. These boats will sail with other boats with similar ratings and will have her elapsed time reduced by 3%".
Will additional seminars be scheduled?
Yes, it is our plan to offer more seminars if the demand is there. Watch this site for additional details.