Learn to Sail the Right Way

2025-07-08T14:51:34-04:00By Robin Van Auken|Robin Van Auken, Small Boat Sailors|

Learn to Sail

We decided to learn how to sail and to purchase a sailboat in 2005, so we took Basic Keelboat (BKB 101) sailing lessons with Flagship Sailing in Clearwater, Florida.

Captain Gardner Lloyd of Flagship Sailing

Captain Gardner Lloyd taught us the fundamentals aboard a Catalina 22. We learned to hoist sails, tack, and gybe, practiced MOB drills and docking skills on the pleasant Gulf of Mexico. We felt very comfortable with Captain Lloyd and will most likely return to Clearwater to take more classes from him and Flagship. We highly recommend him; he is a patient and congenial teacher for both men and women.

The Flagship Sailing staff is certified by the American Sailing Association and licensed by the US Coast Guard.

About the Author: Robin Van Auken

Robin Van Auken, the CEO of Hands-on Heritage, is a seasoned writer and researcher with more than 40 years of experience conducting interviews and crafting compelling narratives. She has earned advanced degrees in Communications and Anthropology, specializing in Public and Historical Archaeology, particularly in the context of Military and Industrial Sites. With a portfolio of over a dozen books on regional history as both an author and co-author, she has left a lasting impact on the field. Robin's previous roles include serving as a college instructor and leading long-term historical and archaeological projects. Through these endeavors, she has worked alongside numerous volunteers and temporary staff, while also imparting knowledge to thousands of visitors.