Courses
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Marine Weather Forecasting (Master Class)

  • Instructor:
    Mark Thornton
  • Level:
    Beginning 101 Intermediate 201
  • Date:
    Tuesday, October 8 & Wednesday, October 9, 2024
  • Time:
    8:15 - 3:45

 A Master Class with Mark Thornton

Coastal and off-shore cruising requires many skills. Regardless of where your adventures may take you, no aspect of cruising is more important than an understanding of marine weather forecasting. During the 2-day Marine Weather Forecasting Masters Class, you will gain an understanding of basic weather principles and learn how to use a wide variety of weather forecasting resources. These skills will improve your cruise planning and reduce the likelihood that you will be exposed to uncomfortable or hazardous weather conditions.

What you can expect to learn at the 2-day seminar:

A few basic meteorological principles.

  • How to decode the confusing symbols and meteorological shorthand on forecast graphics, regardless of your cruising grounds
  • How to prepare a detailed wave height forecast and recognize the conditions that promote dangerously high waves.
  • Why the wind behaves the way it does and how to prepare a detailed wind forecast.
  • How to predict the development and movement of low pressure systems and their accompanying frontal boundaries.
  • How to forecast the potential of thunderstorms, including when, where, and what type of storms may develop.
  • Learn how to monitor the potential development of tropical cyclones and how to interpret the products published by the National Hurricane Center
  • How to use Doppler weather radar and satellite imagery to help you avoid an encounter with severe or hazardous weather.
  • Where to find forecast graphics and a strategy for preparing a multi-day marine forecast.
  • The pros and cons of several of the most popular weather forecasting apps.

But most of all, the class will provide you with the skills to increase your self-reliance. The class, which is designed for beginner to intermediate forecasters, combines classroom instruction, case studies, hands-on forecasting exercises, and product demonstrations to create an engaging and entertaining learning experience. For additional information on this seminar or to contact the instructor, please click here.

Comments from recent students:

  • A+ Excellent, Thank you so much Mark! I was concerned that this class was going to be over my head. Those fears were quickly put to rest. Two days are definitely needed for this class. Jeopardy is a fantastic way to solidify and reinforce this information in our minds. The exercises were great!
  • Excellent knowledge, well organized easy to read slides and book, clear presentation style. Lots of practical advice.