Welcome to Sailing and Boating!

with Captain Deb

Learn the basics of sailing and boating watercrafts on our waterways.

VIEW ALL SAILING AND BOATING COURSES!Check in to see where in the world Deb & Hugh are sailing….

Learn how to start Sailing and Boating with
Captain Deb Marlor

Deb began her boating experiences as a child on Lake Chautauqua New York, and Lake Erie. Sailing began on Lake Erie in the late 70’s where sailing was competitive and fun. Deb sailed with the Tartan team from Mentor, Ohio and learned racing skills, dealing with extraordinary weather conditions and lots of fun. She attended a performance race clinic in Florida that sealed the dream! She was hooked. Her career took her to San Francisco where the sailing/racing in San Francisco bay was amazing.

Captain Deb will make sure as you navigate this journey of boating, sailing, watercrafts of all kinds that you begin with a safety mindset.  Knowledge and skills, common sense, and conscious awareness will support your journey and make it a lot easier and fun.

Take the first step today!

Register for Sailing and Boating Basics OnDemand. 

Register Now!

Captain Deb Will Teach You:

    1. The Language of Sailing
      In the boating world, terminology is specific and crucial. Understanding terms and instructions helps ensure clear communication and can even be essential for safety. This course is designed to guide you through the language and customs of sailing, whether you’re planning a short trip, an extended cruise, or dreaming of living aboard.
    2. The Equipment
      Every piece of equipment on a boat has a purpose. Knowing what each tool does and how to use it properly is key to handling your boat safely and effectively. This training will familiarize you with the equipment you’ll need and teach you how to use it with confidence.
    3. The Rules of Boating
      Rules are in place for your safety and the safety of others on the water. Learning these guidelines not only keeps you compliant but also enhances your understanding of boating culture and etiquette. Knowing the rules can make a big difference in your overall experience.
    4. The Basics
      A strong foundation in problem-solving and navigation is essential on a boat. Understanding how the boat’s systems work will enable you to make smart, informed decisions. This segment covers essential skills, helping you navigate confidently and respond to any challenges that arise.
    5. Navigating the Complex Parts
      Advanced topics like charts, chart plotters, and boat systems require organization and attention. Learn to manage and maintain onboard systems, find the best routes, and navigate with technology like solar power, Starlink, and lithium batteries. These skills are vital for longer passages and make your journey smoother and more efficient.
a sailboat on the ocean, mountains in the back.
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FREE! Navigating Buying a Boat

Thinking boats? Grab this must have guide to find out what you need to know to purchase a boat. Deb helps her readers navigate this big, and fun, decision. Sign up for a sailing and boating course after purchasing to get on the water the right way!

Knowledge is power and confidence.

Captain Deb’s sailing courses are crafted to give you the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to feel at home on the water. From understanding equipment to practicing essential safety techniques, Captain Deb will ensure that the next time you step on a boat, you know exactly what to do and when to do it.

Sailing is a sport that requires focus and preparedness, and these courses are built to help you become a confident, skilled sailor who can handle changing weather, unexpected equipment issues, or even emergencies like someone going overboard. By building a solid understanding of the fundamentals, you’ll transform the way you see every aspect of the boating experience.

Sailing and boating are not just for men—women are more than capable of excelling in this exciting and rewarding sport. Captain Deb’s courses are designed to equip women with the training and confidence they need to take charge on the water.

Through a supportive learning environment, you’ll master essentials like the United States Coast Guard Rules of the Road and gain skills to confidently navigate complex situations, from docking in marinas to maneuvering through rough waters. Captain Deb will help you establish a solid foundation, so your confidence and expertise become the hallmarks of your sailing journey.

Don’t wait!

TAKE ACTION and REGISTER TODAY!

Register Now

Testimonials

Past students say

I never knew what  that was, or why I was doing it, now I understand.”  “I have been in so many dangerous situations and I knew it my gut, and had no idea what to do, now I do!

Dr. Bill Kirsch

Deb you really did an impressive job  putting the logic of the courses, the clarity of the descriptions and content together, they are outstanding, great job!

Ron

The Rules of the Road class material was presented very well. It is highly recommended and will help both beginners as well as experienced to be safer sailors. Captain Deborah is a good instructor and her vast experience makes the course very worthwhile.

Diane Silas

Deborah was down to earth and engaging during the seminars that I took. She is personable, and willing to answer questions. I left my series of three seminars, feeling better about learning to sail.

Danielle Rose

Boating Basics tonight was a great start. I’m getting back into sailing and need all the education and inspiration I can get. Thanks so much for this!

Priscilla

Hi Captain Deb,
I really enjoyed taking your seminars and seeing how you gently inspire confidence in the women through your example. Teaching from your boat in a beautiful location is also inspiring!  Thanks for the links. You reminded the women that sometimes they may need a licensed captain to certify their competence aboard for insurance purposes. That's somaething that the Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association (CAPCA) may be able to help with, particularly for people in the mid-Atlantic states area, as well as in other eastern states. Good luck with your program of inspiration and empowerment!

Lori

Great, thank you.  Nice clear graphics and easy to read.  I have printed a copy for the boat.  This will be handy to use for cruising.

Wanda

Thank you for an Outstanding Class. I am a complete novice when it comes to sailing. After tonight, I Feel more confident about following my dream to sail. And you're a great teacher. I've taught for 40 years, so I know a good one when I see and experience one. Your passion, Knowledge, and delivery of information is off the charts! I look forward to more classes with you!

Claudia Rose

Deb is an absolute delight. I have taken three of her courses…Boating Basics, Rules of the Road and Charts & Chart Plotters.  I learned a great deal from each of her courses and had many laughs with Deb along the way.  I really like the Zoom format.  Deb is engaging and always encourages me to ask questions.  She is a wealth of knowledge.

I have recently completed her Dream Builder program and I’m well on my way to “Living My Ocean Dream.”  I’m extremely grateful for Captain Deb! 

Clara “CJ” Powell

Captain Deb Marlor is the sailboat captain you want to follow. She lives on the water with the real experience of living in the environment. She is a woman of skill, discipline and order on the water to sail with the wind, teach others the ropes...or should I say the sheets of sailing. She has now written the best book I have ever seen that guides one through all the necessary steps to buy any boat. Navigating Buying a Boat by Captain Deb Marlor. I am using it to buy my next sailboat and so should you!

Contact DEB

Reach out to Captain Deb if you're ready to take your boating and sailing knowledge to the next level!