Often introduced to sailing by spouses or boyfriends, women tend to be easily intimidated in a sport dominated by men. Never learning to participate fully, they end up not enjoying boating as much as their male counterparts. It soon became apparent to the school's founders that women powerboaters were in the same situation, so the school expanded its programs to meet their needs as well. Sea Sense, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, offers courses throughout the United States and abroad for students of all skill levels. Recent additions have been cruises in Greece and France, with more international sites from Mexico to Tahiti under consideration.
Private instruction is also available to boat owners on their own vessels.
Students aren't always women. It's what I love. I enjoy getting to go places I've always wanted to see, but the most rewarding part for me is the students. There are other sailing schools that offer more classroom instruction, but it's the hands-on instruction on the water where you see students grow and gain confidence . . . I think it's easier for a woman to teach another woman.