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Well, maybe not Everything!, but if you're looking for details about SailQuest and our sailing program there is a lot of information in these tabs. If you can't find what you are looking for here or elsewhere on the website, please contact us. We are always ready to provide more details and answer your questions.

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SailQuest Location Details

SailQuest Thailand About Location

Discover an Un-Discovered Sailor's Paradise

SailQuest Thailand base
 

SailQuest Thailand base

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SailQuest offices and classroom facilities are located at the 5 star Ocean Marina Yacht Club, just 1.5 hours from Bangkok and only 20 minutes south of Pattaya City center.

The Ocean Marina property features a 5 star Hotel and 2 private condominium towers. Students and instructors often meet up at the Ocean Marina Sailor's Bar following daily sailing lessons for happy hour refreshment and a lovely sunset view overlooking the marina.

There is also a local Thai restaurant on the property where hungry sailor's can enjoy great food, Thai and international dishes, at very reasonable prices. Catering services are also available.

Over 20 shops at Ocean Marina offer services and marine goods including yacht supply & sailing gear shops, yacht brokers, builders, electrical repair, minimart, charter agents, massage and more.

The Ocean Marina harbor facility is the largest and best developed in southeast Asia with berths for over 500 boats 25 and 75 ton Travel-Lift service, a large dry-dock area supprted by professional yacht services and suppliers. The marina management team does an exceptional job and it is hard not to be impressed by the smooth daily operations of this complex operation.

With over 4 kilometers of well-maintained dock space, there is opportunity for SailQuest students and boat owners to practice close quarter maneuvering, docking and line-handling. When SailQuest sailors go out sailing, it only takes about 10 minutes from when we leave from our Ocean Marina berth to get outside of the channel markers and under full sail.

Sailing Weather Conditions
 

Sailing Weather Conditions

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The SailQuest location on the eastern seaboard of the Gulf of Thailand averages over 300 decent sailing days per year giving SailQuest students the best chance of having a lively and interesting sailing experience. Tropical temperatures and blue skies prevail year round.

We enjoy consistent fair weather steady notherly winds from November thru March.

During the south west monsoons, April thru October, winds tend to be strong and steady from the south, occasionally bringing along tropical rain squalls which are always welcomed by students and usually considered good training experiences.

Whatever the season, from our top of the Gulf of Thailand location, surrounded on 3 sides by coastline, the seas around our cruising area are always relatively flat. It is not unusual to sail in a perfect 15 knot breeze and experience only a half meter swell. This allows SailQuest students to concentrate on the sailing lessons and not worry about huge sea conditions.

Geographical Sailing Features
 

Geographical Sailing Features

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From a sailing school perspective, our Gulf of Thailand position is the perfect place to “Learn to Sail”. In addition to the excellent Ocean Marina facility, the SailQuest base is only 20 nautical miles south of the port of Laam Chebang, the busiest shipping area in the Gulf of Thailand.

We have a large variety of Navigational Aids like lighthouses, buoys, cardinal marks, a traffic separation scheme and more in our sailing area. Ideal for SailQuest students learning about coastal navigation.

During our SailQuest On-the-Water Training program, we usually get ashore to visit the unique and very special Ko Si Chang and enjoy the island hospitality and fresh seafood dinners.

To the east and south, a chain of uninhabited islands under control of the Thai Navy offer quiet beaches and secluded anchorages and the perfect place to practice traditional navigation methods, anchoring and beach landings with the dingy. The clear water around these peaceful islands provides live aboard SailQuest students with a refreshing swim or snorkel break after a day at sea.

Live aboard sailing destinations like Hua Hin, Ko Samet, Ko Chang, Ko Samui and surrounding Islands, and further out, destinations like Cambodia, Malayasia, Indonesia and Singapore make this one of the most interesting sailing areas in the world today. SailQuest is pioneering the yachting scene in the region and this is truly and amazing and unexplored yachting area.

Around Ocean Marina
 

Around Ocean Marina

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From Ocean Marina SailQuest students can walk or taxi to a variety of other area hotels and restaurants of all types. There is a 7/11, a KFC, Pan-Pan Pizza, Thai food restaurants, hardware shops, pharmacy, motorbike & bicycle rental, taxis, laundry service, and fresh markets are all convenient to our marina location within a 15 minute walking radius.

Several local bars and massage services cater to the needs of tired and thirsty SailQuest sailors.

Around the Pattaya area
 

Around the Pattaya area

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They don’t call Pattaya, Thailand “FunTown” for nothing. Pattaya has been a booming beach town resort area for the past 40 years. This is also a popular area for the locals and on week ends and holidays the beaches fill up with people coming down from Bangkok to enjoy some time on the coast.

Shopping, beach activities, endless numbers of bars and discos, wide variety of accommodation options and a fantastic selection of restaurants make the SailQuest location an unbeatable place to “Learn to Sail” and a whole lot more!

Students can visit nearby local areas such as Bang Sare, Jomtien Beach, Pattaya & world famous “Walking Street” to relax/enjoy after class and check out the scene.

Tuk-tuks, taxies, mini-vans & hotel shuttle services make getting into town easy and affordable from the Ocean Marina area.

Easy access to international airports and the city rail system around Bangkok.

 

SailQuest Accommodation Options

SailQuest Thailand About Accommodation

Recommendations for SailQuest Students & Yacht-Share Owners

SailQuest students make their own onshore accommodation arrangements while they are here attending classes. SailQuest yacht share owners may may also require accommodation before, during or after spending time aboard their yachts. Here is a list of local options including budget rooms, seaview condos and luxury hotels.

When booking a room, hotel or condo, it is recommended to be within a 2 kilometer distance from the SailQuest/Ocean Marina facility. There are many accommodation options in the immediate area, from budget rooms to luxury condos and beach rentals. Some within walking distance, others within a short taxi, motorbike or baht bus ride.

Most of the provided links will display a map of our area where you can see additional options. Hotel links are thru www.bookings.com, but you can also try other online booking services or contact any of these options directly.

If you are having any trouble booking your accommodation or require any additional info or do not see an option that fits your budget, please contact us for advice and assistance.

Lela’s Marble Studios

Lela is an old friend of SailQuest Sailing School and her nearby studio apartments are ideal accommodation during your course dates. She typically prefers to rent her rooms by the month at excellent rates, but if you contact her directly, she will provide details on shorter term rentals for SailQuest students. Recommended!

Lela's spacious rooms with sea view balcony are on the 5th and 6th floor of the "Somphong Condotel" building in the picturesque fishing village of Ban Amphur, about a 5 minute walk to the SailQuest/Ocean Marina facility.

The beautiful marble studios are 39 sq. meters in area. They are fitted with cable TV with numerous international channels, WiFi, air conditioner, a built-in wardrobe, ceiling fan, microwave, and hot water jug. You will have a private marble bathroom with a hot water shower. Cutlery, linens and towels are provided. Good double bed with Slumberland mattress. Custom fitted blackout bamboo curtains.

Double Studios with connecting door are available.

Lela and her assistant speak English and are there to assist you any time during your stay regarding laundry, room cleaning service, taxi, motor bike rental, etc.

Royal Residence 1 - near Ocean Marina

Here’s another popular option for students looking for accommodation within easy walking distance to the SailQuest/Ocean Marina facility. Recommended!

Located a 5-minute walk from the Na Jomtien Beach and 200 m from the sea, With spacious accommodations in Na Jomtien. The apartment has free WiFi and the building comes with an outdoor pool.

The fully-furnished apartment features air-conditioning and a living room with a sofa. Amenities include a flat-screen TV and a kitchen. A 16-sqm balcony provides views of the sea. A shower can be found in the private bathroom!

Facilities and the common areas at Royal Residence 1 include sun beds with umbrellas, a snooker table and a fitness room. Restaurants can be found within a 5-minute walk.

OYO 869 Ban Nam Mao Resort

OYO 869 Ban Nam Mao Resort has a number of amenities including a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and free WiFi. The hotel provides garden views, a terrace and a 24-hour front desk.

At the hotel, rooms have a wardrobe. At OYO 869 Ban Nam Mao Resort each room includes a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

The resort can assist with car and motorbike taxi and/or motorbike rental. There is a baht bus service that runs on the main road between the resort and the SailQuest/Ocean Marina location.

Siam@Sea Resort

Located in Na Jomtien, Siam@Sea Resort has a garden. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a restaurant. Rooms come with a balcony with views of the garden.

The rooms comes with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, an electric tea pot, a shower, free toiletries and a closet. With a private bathroom, rooms at the resort also feature free WiFi, while some rooms include a patio. Guest rooms at Siam@Sea Resort come with a seating area.

The resort can assist with car and motorbike taxi and/or motorbike rental. There is a baht bus service that runs on the main road between the resort and the SailQuest/Ocean Marina location.

Sunshine Beach Condotel by Lux

 Located in Na Jomtien, 14.5 km from Ko Larn, Sunshine Beach Condotel by Lux provides a restaurant and free WiFi.

Each unit has a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, a seating area with a sofa bed, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a private bathroom with shower. Some units include a balcony and/or a terrace with pool or sea views.

Sunshine Beach Condotel

Beautifully located at the beachfront, Sunshine Beach Condotel offers comfortable accommodations in Na Jomtien. Central Pattaya is 6.8 mi from the property, while Ocean Marina Yacht Club lies within a walking distance of 10 minutes. Guests have access to free WiFi throughout the property. Free private parking is available on site.

All rooms here feature a full range of facilities. Each unit comes with a cozy bedroom, a living room and a kitchen. All balconies boast unobstructed and panoramic views of the sea. The private bathroom is equipped with a bathtub and free toiletries. Guests are encouraged to make themselves feel at home with housekeeping and laundry services available upon request.

An attractive outdoor pool for adults and kids lies in the midst of tropical gardens. The Condotel offers 24 hours reception and security services. Guests can relax at the shared lounge or at the library on site. Recreational facilities such as squash, table tennis, snooker, darts, sauna, beach sala and a children play ground are also provided for entertainment. Within walking distance are dining, shopping and entertainment venues as well as a water sport center offering also island excursions.

Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya

Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya

One of our top picks in Na Jomtien.Offering a pristine and private beachfront area along Na Jomtien, Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya features a large lagoon swimming pool and panoramic sea views from all hotel rooms. Various facilities are available at this 5-star property, as well as free WiFi access in public areas.

A short walk from Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Mövenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya is a 9.3 mi drive from Pattaya, where guests can find lively nightlife, shopping and a wide variety of restaurants. Siam Country Club is a 15-minute drive away. Suvarnabhumi International Airport can be reached within a 2-hour drive.

Spacious rooms and suites at this hotel are equipped with air-conditioning, a flat-screen satellite TV and a mini-bar. They have an indoor seating area and a furnished balcony overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Private bathrooms come with a shower and free toiletries.

Guests looking to relax can enjoy a pampering treatment at the spa. The 24-hour front desk can assist with guests' needs and the concierge can help arrange transportation. Free parking is available.

Movenpick Residences Pattaya with Ocean View

Featuring an outdoor pool and a fitness room, Movenpick Residences Pattaya with Ocean View provides accommodations located in Na Jomtien, 12.9 km from Pattaya South. The apartment features both WiFi and private parking free of charge.

Fitted with a balcony, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bidet and a hairdryer. There's a seating and/or dining area in some units.

Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa

Experience World-class Service at Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa

Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa offers comfort and tranquility with its accommodations, facilities and traditional Thai hospitality.

Set in a low-rise colonial style building, Ravindra's guest rooms are designed in a classic Thai style with private balconies offering either a poolside, garden or sea view. Facilities include a DVD player and Wi-Fi internet access.

Relax and soak up the sun by the swimming pool with a refreshing drink or along the stretch of Jomtien Beach just a short stroll away. The beautifully landscaped resort also has a fitness center and a spa that will indulge and pamper you.

Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa provides 6 food and beverage options that ranges from the freshest seafood to cocktails with Karaoke.

Various services such as hotel shuttle and babysitting are also provided at The Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa, to make your stay more comfortable.

Book a nearby room, condo or apartment on AirBnB - Recommended!

See some examples below:

Beach Front Condo at Ocean Marina Yacht Club

  • Located in the SailQuest/Ocean Marina property - from 1,500THB per night

Absolute sea front condo at Ocean Marina Yacht Club. This is a family friendly building with great security. Facilities include outdoor pool, gym, sauna/steam room. There are restaurants within the marina ground. The Yacht Club has a restaurant which offers international food. Lakeview Restaurant (located at the back of the condo building and by the lake ) offers local Thai food in a causal environment. The beach is within 50 steps from the condo. The lush garden offers a tranquil environment.Our unit is 80 square meters (about 800 sq. feet) located on 30/F offers unobstructed sea and marina view from the living room. The bedroom has a king size bed. The unit is fully equipped with everything you need for a holiday “home away from home” stay. Contact host

Beach Front Lux Condo (Portofino) at Ocean Marina

  • Located in the SailQuest/Ocean Marina property - from 1,500THB per night

Absolute sea front condo at Ocean Marina Yacht Club. This is a family friendly building with great security. Facilities include outdoor pool, gym and sauna /steam room. There are also restaurants within the Marina ground. The beach is within 50 steps from the pool. Our one bedroom 80 Square meters unit is bright and airy with 180 degree marina and sea view. The bedroom has a king size bed. The unit is fully equipped with everything you need for a holiday “home away from home” stay.The condo living room features view of the marina and the sea and the beautiful garden in the marina. Communal facilities include the pool, gym and the steam room.Guests can enjoy the pool, gym and the steam room within the building ground.
Guests can also use the restaurants at the marina yacht club. Contact host

Sunshine Beach Condotel Room 287 by Tang

  • 500 meters to SailQuest/Ocean Marina - from 1,450THB per night

A lovely 56 mt sq fully equipped studio room on the 25th floor with wide sweeping ocean views situated on absolute beach front.
This room was recently fully renovated and comes with new furniture and equipment. We are next to beach side restaurants, bars and a convenience store is nearby.
We have two rooms on the same floor so if 287 is booked or you have a large group please go to Holiday Room 290 Sunshine Beach Jomtien by Tang on Airbnb on the same floor.Our large balcony is second to none. You can enjoy a cold drink or dine al fresco while taking in the beautiful sunset. You have your own private entrance. The kitchen is well equipped for basic cooking and the WC has hot water with very good water pressure. Free Wi-Fi, toilet paper, 2 x large bottles of drinking water per day and toiletries so you don't have to worry about buying the basics. The condotel has 24 hour security and CCTV on all floors and a 24 hour reception desk.You have full use of the studio room and the facilities offered by the condotel. There is no place that is off limits to our guests. This is your private room with your own private entrance. Contact host

Full Sea Views Ultimate Luxury @ Movenpick Pattaya

  • 600 meters to SailQuest/Ocean Marina facility - from 2,250THB per night

At Movenpick Luxury Condominium our guests can enjoy the 37-storied South Tower apart of the Movenpick resort complex. Here, the 5 star design elements and sweeping full sea views ensure you will have a memorable stay. Resort facilities available to our guests include beachfront pool, kids club, on site renowned steakhouse, and access to many of the hotel facilities.

Huge 1BR condominium (80SQM) with amazing direct sea view is fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay!-King size bed with comfortable mattress and luxury bedding to ensure good night rest
-small sofa
-ensuite bathroom and hot tub
-flat screen TV
-Huge seaview balcony
-Dining table big enough for 4 people
-Flat screen TV/ Wifi
-1/2 bathroom / powder room
-all cooking utensils /equipment
-Toaster, water boiler, coffee, tea, snacks
-Washing machine
-Coffee maker

Contact host

 

SailQuest FAQ's

faQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions below.

Still have questions or need more details? Look through the info on our website and Contact SailQuest - we are always happy to hear from YOU!

What should I bring to the SailQuest Sailing Course?
 

What should I bring to the SailQuest Sailing Course?

Most students wear shorts and a crew or t-shirt while aboard the boat. Hats, sunscreen, non-marking soft soled boat shoes or barefooted, swim wear etc. are options. A light rain jacket can come in handy if it rains or to keep you warm during the night sailing portions of the course.

It is also recommended to have a pair of sailing gloves to prevent rope burn or blisters. If you can’t find or don’t want to pay for over-priced sailing gloves, gloves made for golfing, weightlifting, cycling, gardening, etc. will work just as well.

All other course materials are supplied. You are welcome to bring along any other personal gear you may require but it is recommended that you try to keep items brought aboard the training boat to a comfortable minimum.

More details are here: NOTES: What to Pack When Sailing in Tropical Conditions

How do I get to SailQuest Thailand?
 

How do I get to SailQuest Thailand?

The SailQuest Sailing School is based on the eastern seaboard of Thailand, 2 hours south east of Bangkok and about 10 minutes south of Pattaya City at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, approximately 1 kilometer past the Ambassador City Hotel, our local landmark. SailQuest Thailand facility is located directly across from the entrance to Ocean Marina Hotel.

If you are arriving at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport the easiest way to get to Ocean Marina is to take a taxi from the airport. After clearing airport customs, take a left through the doors and follow signs to the “Taxi Stand” and taxi counter. You will pay 1,500baht, up to 3 passengers, at the taxi counter for the 1.5-2 hour drive. Occasionally the driver may not be familiar with Ocean Marina. In that case, mention that we are about 1 kilometer south of the Ambassador Hotel, Thailand’s largest hotel, and they will find us with no problem.

There is also a bus and mini-van service that will save you some money, but does not operate 24 hours a day. See details here: www.airportpattayabus.com You will also need to get from the Pattaya bus stop to your hotel by hiring a local taxi.

Let us know if you have any trouble finding us or need assistance with transportation.

No sailing experience? No problem...
 

No sailing experience? No problem...

The SailQuest OTW (On-The-Water) CEW/CAPTAIN COURSE is an entry level sailing program. Although some of our students do have some previous experience, many are complete beginners. We always start at the beginning and work our way thru a huge amount of relative information and sailing skills.

The SailQuest OTW COURSE will be a great program for you to join to increase your sailing knowledge and skills and get you on track to achieve your sailing goals.

I already have sailing and boating experience.
 

I already have sailing and boating experience.

It is great if you already have some sailing experience, this will come in handy during SailQuest OTW (On-The-Water) CREW/CAPTAIN COURSE . However, we always recommend that all students (even students who have previous boating experience) complete the full 7 Day OTW COURSE as we provide a carefully structured course that builds on itself as we go along.

Completing the entire course is the best way to cover any gaps you may have in your sailing experience/knowledge and to brush up on your sailing & boat handling skills.

Generally speaking, the pre-requisite for the SailQuest OTW (On-The-Water) CAPTAIN COURSE is the OTW (On-The-Water) CREW COURSE.

However, if you are already comfortable with your level of experience and have a decent understanding of sailing & sail handling (tacking, gibing, reefing, MOB, sailing theory, etc.), yacht systems (electrical, plumbing, engine, steering, etc.), the International Collision Regulations (rules 1-18, nav light recognition, distress signals, etc.), anchoring, knot tying and other subjects we cover during the 3 day OTW CREW COURSE and you prefer to attend only the 5 day OTW CAPTAIN COURSE, that is OK with us.

You can see available 4 day OTW CAPTAIN COURSE dates as the last 4 days of any of our scheduled 7 day courses.

Class size
 

Class size

Our classes are full with 6 students. So far this year we are averaging about 4 or 5 students per class. You may imagine that a smaller group is better and while it may have some merits, we find that groups of 5 or 6 work really well as students can learn from each other and assist each other in getting thru the course material.

In any case, we always deliver a fantastic sailing course and look forward to sailing with you soon!

Power Boat Courses?
 

Power Boat Courses?

SailQuest OTW COURSES are geared towards those who are planning to go sailing, however... while we run our training course aboard live-aboard sailing yachts, many of the systems are similar to systems aboard power yachts and students get experience in driving and docking and other aspects of seamanship which are common aboard any type of vessel.

The majority of the info we cover during our 7 day course, such as navigation & passage planning, the international collision regulations, yacht systems, safety, anchoring and more will apply to any type of vessel you take to sea, whether mono-hull, multihull, sail or power. The inboard Yanmar diesel engines, the electrical and other mechanical systems, anchoring/docking gear, etc. are similar to those found aboard most modern power yachts.

Many of our students do go on to sail, charter and buy monohulls & multihulls both sail & power. It will be fairly easy to apply the lessons, skills and experience you gain during our well rounded training program to any yacht, sail or power, in the future.

English issues?
 

English issues?

SailQuest students come from all over the world and many of our students have English as a second language. Our courses are taught in English but we will certainly assist in any way to be sure you understand the course material. Don’t worry, we are good communicators, I am sure we will be able to communicate well!

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Most nationalities are issued a 30 day visa stamp on entry in to the country. This can be extended by visiting the local immigration office or making a “visa run” to the Cambodia border.

If you are planning a longer stay in Thailand, more than 60 days, you should consider applying for a 60 day tourist visa at a Thai Consulate office in your area. If you need additional info, please contact us.

What is the SailQuest payment, cancellation and refund policy?

What is the SailQuest payment, cancellation and refund policy?

After selecting course or events dates, SailQuest requires a 25% deposit to confirm your booking and reserve your place for your selected dates.

Unless other arrangements have been made, total payment is due on the first day of class or before departure for other SailQuest sailing events and can be paid by cash, credit card or transfer to the SailQuest Thai bank account.

We understand that your schedule can change. If you have booked course or event dates and need to cancel  your booking, we can hold your payment and you can re-schedule to more convenient dates as your schedule allows. Or we can issue a full refund of your booking deposit or full payment, minus any bank transfer fees.

In the event you do need to re-schedule your dates or cancel a booking, please give as much notice as possible so we can fill the vacancy.

Should a student "no show" or decide to not continue with the training program or event, for any reason, SailQuest reserves the right to award a refund, either all, part or none of the payment received, on an individual basis.

Please contact us if you have any issues or questions.

Can Kids and Young Adults Attend the OTW CREW/CAPTAIN COURSE?

Can Kids and Young Adults Attend the OTW CREW/CAPTAIN COURSE?

The SailQuest OTW CREW/CAPTAIN COURSE is certainly an adult level training program.

Basically, we are happy to enroll young adults of 14 years old and above who wish to attend the program on their own. It has worked out well in the past when younger students join with a friend to keep them engaged. Please note that SailQuest does not provide any supervision of students (regardless of age) outside of the hours when the courses are in session.

For younger kids, there may be some course material which will be a challenge, like the International Collision Regulations and some of the navigation/passage planning exercises. There are also physical demands, like starting an outboard engine, docking, grinding a loaded winch on 40+ foot yachts, etc. that may be impossible…

However, if your younger kids are interested in learning to sail, they will definitely learn a lot in the program even if some material may go over their heads. In this case, it is required that parents or a guardian also attend the program.

Keep in mind that a yacht at sea can be a challenging environment. All attendee’s should be able to look after themselves as far as getting around the training yachts, follow instructions and be aware of the risks involved.

Very young kids who require constant supervision will be a liability and possibly interfere with the course delivery and other students “learn to sail” experience.

SailQuest course cost is per student, regardless of age.

Please contact us if you have any other questions.

Best time of year?

Best time of year?

We always say that now is the best time to advance your sailing skills and gain the skills, knowledge and qualifications you need to handle a yacht on your own. You will not be disappointed with our effective, well-organized 7 day program at any time you are able to attend.

We are very fortunate here at our location in the Gulf of Thailand to get steady and consistent winds year-round. The southwest monsoon fills in from April to October, bringing occasional rain showers or stronger squalls later in the season - excellent sailing experience, and is replaced with northerlies from November thru March, consistent winds all day, dropping out in the evenings.

While it is not impossible to get a very light or fluky wind day, we average over 300 good sailing days per year. Additionally, our relatively protected top-of-the-Gulf location means we very rarely get wave heights above 1.5 meters, keeping things comfortable aboard the training yachts so we can focus on the lessons of the day.

In all fairness, December to February and May to September would be good choices, but we run successful courses year round. I recommend you join the first available course dates you can fit into your schedule. You will have a great experience with SailQuest every time!

Where do SailQuest students come from?
 

Where do SailQuest students come from?

SailQuest students come from all around the world. Men and women of all ages, Young adults to old-timers, join our program in pursuit of their sailing goals. Although from diverse walks of life, our students share a love for the sea and a dream of sailing. It is common for classmates to keep in touch with each other and sail together in the future.

SailQuest students get the coaching and guidance they need to become confident sailors, crew members, captains or owners and gain a practical understanding of yacht operation and management.

There is also a great social side to the SailQuest Sailing School program as students and instructors share the friendship of sailors & shipmates as they “learn the ropes” together.

Ride-Alongs...
 

Ride-Alongs...

We have a lot of couples attend our courses and besides learning a lot about sailing, etc. you will both have a great time as you begin to share a sailing dream and learn to work as a team aboard a yacht. Sometimes, one of you may be more interested in the subject of sailing, cruising, etc. but after you get started, chances are that you will be surprised at your companion’s aptitude and interest in the program.

The first 3 days of our full 7 Day program, the OTW CREW COURSE, is an entry level course . The second 4 days, the OTW CAPTAIN COURSE, can get a bit more technical, with a day of classroom navigation and we can lose some non-English speakers here, or those with a lesser interest.

In any case, some people just have less of an interest but want to give our sailing courses a chance. If you fall into this situation we suggest that you both join the course at our couple’s rate and if your partner has had enough after the 3 day OTW CREW COURSE, we can refund for the OTW CAPTAIN COURSE. Or maybe just book the CREW COURSE for your partner and if they are interested after the CREW COURSE, they can continue on with the CAPTAIN COURSE.

Also, if you are traveling with someone who is not interested in participating in the "Learn to Sail" Program, it is usually not a problem to have them sit in on the course and go out sailing with the class on a day or 2, but anyone who wants to "ride-along" for the full course will be considered a student and should pay the usual rate. 🙂

Contact Us, Please!
 

Contact Us, Please!

For more information on SailQuest certificates, courses or special events, monthly class and event schedules, pricing and payment options, travel arrangements or just to say “hello”, we are standing by to provide you with any information you need.

CONTACT FORM

 

Meet NauticEd

SailQuest Thailand About NauticEd

OUR MISSION: COMPETENCE

NauticEd's mission is to educate and train competent sailors.

Sailing competence requires a comprehensive mix of knowledge, skills and experience. Once achieved, competence means a sailor will keep the crew safe, have more fun and fulfillment, and be empowered with the confidence to sail beyond visible horizons and personal boundaries.

NauticEd helps students chart their own course by merging the latest technology, learning techniques, and on-the-water training into one globally accepted program. Our professional and accredited sailing schools are located around the world, providing immersive training and a supportive sailing community to help students accomplish their personal goals

ABOUT NAUTICED

A leader in US and International sailing education, NauticEd launched in 2008 with a mission to create safer, more competent sailors. Our state-of-the-art online courses simulate real-life experiences so students can fully understand the theory of sailing before heading out for practical on-the-water training with one of our accredited sailing schools. NauticEd is the only sailing education body recognized by the US Coast Guard and NASBLA as meeting the American National Standards.

With multimedia courses, worldwide sailing schools, sailing vacation experts, and unlimited sailing opportunities, NauticEd is more than an education program. We're a one-stop-shop for all things sailing. And with ever-changing, innovative technology and a commitment to competency, NauticEd leads the industry with:

  • Sailing Curriculum and Courses: NauticEd's real-time library of state-of-the-art, multimedia coursework is available with just one click of a button, making your sailing goals attainable and achievable. Learn in the comfort of your own home with cutting edge technology for simple and easy access to learn theory and knowledge at your own pace.
  • Accredited Sailing Schools: with professional and accredited sailing schools located around the world, providing immersive training and a supportive sailing community to help you accomplish your personal goals has never been more achievable. Certified instructors teach in a safe, controlled training environment that allows you to be hands-on with challenging sailing situations. Instructors continually assess your strengths, focusing your training to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge to be a safe and skilled skipper or crew. The value of your instructor's oversight is immeasurable. With years of experience, professional training, and a passion to guide your development, NauticEd's experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
  • Sailing Vacations/Charter Company: Allow us to share the secret spots, latest promotions, and insider tips for over 5,000 boats in 55 destinations for the ultimate sailing vacation. Charter your own vessel, combine your on-the-water practical training and mile building with a vacation, or hire a captain and sit back, relax, and soak up the sun with our sailing vacation experts.
  • Goal-Focused Learning Management Systems: in order to provide a truly customized learning experience, NauticEd developed proprietary Learning Management Systems with state-of-the-art technology for sailing education; which is integral to developing competency, experience, and building a resume understood by charter operators around the world. By understanding our students' goals and experience, NauticEd has been able to enhance and customize a student's learning process while providing unlimited support that helps our students achieve their personal goals

BENEFITS AND ADVANTAGES OF NAUTICED

Boating Education you can trust

  • The Only Sailing Education Body Recognized by the US Coast Guard and NASBLA as meeting the American National Standards.

NauticEd benefits

  • Anywhere, Anytime Learning: courses, tools and resources are centralized online to provide students with easy access to learning. Students can learn wherever and whenever they want to and at their own pace.
  • Interactive Learning: NauticEd's courses include a variety of teaching methods: text, multimedia, interactive simulations, SeaTalk Q&A, blogs and podcasts. Individual students learn in unique ways, and varied training approaches increase a student's success rate and retention.
  • Practical School Courses: NauticEd provides sailing schools with student management and assessment tools to seamlessly personalize on-the-water training to a students goals, experience and competency needs.
  • Easy and Continual Upgrades: Courses and systems are continuously upgraded and improved, providing all users (past and present) access to the latest-greatest information and features
  • Real-time Engagement: assessment and competency management is real-time, providing students with ongoing progress reporting relative to industry competency and certification standards.
  • Reduced Cost & Time Savings: Leveraging modern technology reduces cost for the student, minimizes their time investment and maximizes the time they spend on-the-water learning and gaining experience.

HOW DOES NAUTICED COMPARE?

NauticEd offers the most comprehensive education available in the market. Best of all? Even though you're getting state-of-the-art e-learning and support, there are no annual fees associated with any of our programs.

In the 21st Century, a company should use technology to benefit its customers to the maximum. NauticEd has spared no effort to come up with a sailing education and certification system that utilizes technology tools to ensure competency and proper competency reporting where due.

MEET GRANT

Grant Headifen - Global Director of Education, NauticEd International Sailing Education

My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

Grant Headifen is the founder and Global Director of Education of NauticEd, a state-of-the-art international sailing education organization established in 2008.

In his present capacity, Grant is directly responsible for NauticEd's leadership and strategic direction. He oversees eLearning technology architecture, student curriculum development, standards continuity, school and instructor development, yacht charter company and strategic alliances.

Grant's love for the water began at the age of eight when he learned to sail. In his youth, he envisioned life that would combine his passion for sailing with long-term career aspirations in the marine industry. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree with honors in mechanical engineering from the University of Auckland in New Zealand, followed by a master's degree from the University of Texas in Austin.

Grant's first major marine industry achievement was the co-launch of SailTime in the early 2000's, becoming its first CEO. This global fractional ownership company was the first to blend technology innovation with sailing operation and boat ownership. Through this experience dealing with sailors of all skill levels from global ports of call, he recognized a compelling need for streamlining competency and instruction.

Upon the successful international expansion and eventual sale of SailTime, he was able to focus all of his experience, energy and enthusiasm to build an online sailing educational platform which he branded, NauticEd. It was the first training program to be recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Law Administrators to meet the established American National Standards.

Since the launch of this world-class organization in 2008 with a mission to create safer, more competent sailors, Grant has continued to collaborate with scores of leading educators, e-learning technologists, forward-thinking sailing schools and a select group of top international instructors to build a comprehensive curriculum. Today, NauticEd offers 24 online courses and five ranks of on-the-water practical certificates, all training to the highest international standards.

With a career now spanning more than 20 years in the marine industry, a US Coast Guard Master certification and thousands of nautical miles of sailing experience including 35 yacht charter destinations around the world to his credit, Grant brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the helm of NauticEd. In addition, he is the author of five sailing books currently sold on Amazon; has served as a flotilla leader, sailing instructor and trainer of instructors; and is a certified yacht charter agent.

NAUTICED AT A GLANCE

  • Over a quarter million courses provided since 2008.
  • Over 80,000 active sailing enthusiasts to date.
  • 24 online, interactive multimedia courses.
  • Five ranks of on-the-water practical certificates for sailors of all levels.
  • 5 Books available on Amazon.com.
  • Seamlessly integrated school and instructor student assessment and management software empowers blended online and on-the-water learning.
  • Newly Goal-focused Experiential Learning (GEL) technology to provide more customized course recommendations and sailing opportunities.
  • State-of-the-art electronic logbook automatically feed your sailing experience into a resume format that is easily understood by operators all around the world. It includes the ability to authenticate passage-making via crew-mate or GPS technology through our proprietary app, Tracklink.
  • Real-time student assessment and competency management: assessment and progress of students against industry standards and requirements for boating competency.
  • Boating Resume: consolidates a student's course and experience progress, training, certification and licensing into a single resume.
  • SeaTalk interactive engagement.

 

 

ABOuT SailQuest Thailand

About SailQuest Thailand

SailQuest Thailand was founded by Captain Tim in 2010 with the goal to establish a top level “Learn to Sail” program and provide a quality education to sailors who are interested in sailing, chartering or owning a yacht.

Now, after 15 years and more than 1,500 students who are now sailing in locations world-wide, the SailQuest training program is regarded as an effective and rewarding choice for anyone who is ready to advance their sailing goals.

The SailQuest Join-In SAILING EVENTS program provides students with a wide variety of sailing events and opportunities, like monthly live aboard cruises, yacht racing & regattas, join-in sailing holidays, yacht delivery crewing positions and more to keep them sailing and gaining essential Hands-On experience.

Our experienced, professional SailQuest instructors take a real interest in each student and make a genuine effort to deliver the best recreational on-the-water training program available anywhere today. The SailQuest training yachts are up to date and in line with the types of yacht students want to take to sea, whether daytrip sailing, chartering or live aboard cruising.

The SailQuest Thailand is located at world-class Ocean Marina Yacht Club, 80 minutes south of Thailand’s primary international airport. Here we have found a perfect combination of ideal tropical sailing conditions and destinations, a fantastic marina facility and a good choice of student accommodation options all in an enjoyable holiday resort location.

SailQuest would like to remind you that there is great big watery world out there! Realize your yachting goals and have a great time doing it. Contact SailQuest today.

 

ABOuT Captain Tim

about captain tim

Captain Tim McMahon grew up in the sailing community of Maine, USA. As a licensed US Merchant Marine 200 Ton Master and fully qualified Yacht Training Instructor, Captain Tim has lived and worked on the water for most of his life. Following many years as a busy charter and yacht delivery captain in and around Hawaiian/Pacific waters, Tim spent 7 years living aboard the his own classic yacht “Houhere” and cruising the oceans and waterways of the world.

Settling in Thailand in 1997, Tim operated a live-aboard sail/dive charter company embarking on adventure voyages along the Malacca Straits, Thailand & Malaysian coastal waters and pioneering live aboard cruising into Myanmar and the exotic Andaman Islands. In 2004, Captain Tim partnered up with another local sailing company as operations manager for a fleet of 10 active charter yachts.

This diverse and hands-on experience has provided him with the genuine knowledge of yachts, world cruising and the live-aboard lifestyle which he enthusiastically passes on to SailQuest Sailing School students.

Now, having logged over 350,000 nautical miles, professionally skippered dozens of yachts in charter, worldwide yacht delivery and live-aboard cruising, taken thousands of people out sailing and given personal yachting instruction to 1,500++ sailing school students, Captain Tim’s SailQuest Sailing School is uniquely suited to teaching new sailors what they really need to know to get the most from the yachting experience.

When it comes time to “Learn to Sail”, there is no substitute for on-the-water experience. With Captain Tim and SailQuest, you can be confident that you will receive the best value for your “Learn to Sail” time and money.

In his own words:

"At SailQuest, we take a personal interest in every student and make a big effort not only to teach them how to sail and all that goes along with that, but also how to use their knowledge to advance their sailing goals, whether yacht chartering, crewing on a world cruising yacht or being able to make informed decisions when it comes to yacht ownership.

SailQuest students have a realistic understanding of yachts and a prudent respect for the sea. Of course there is always more to learn, but after completing courses with SailQuest, they have a solid foundation of sailing skills to build on."