A premier Northwest sailing program.

2024 Sailing Excursion Schedule is Open!

Our 5-day Cruise & Learn courses begin May 20

Sailing Courses & Excursions: Capt. Alan Somervell, a +30 year veteran of sailing instruction in the NW and across the world, began Chance Encounters to offer beginning to advanced training and adventure sailing aboard the S/V Anthea in the Puget Sound and surrounding waters. Chance Encounters Sailing is a NauticEd Practical Training School. NauticEd is global sailing training, education and certification body recognized as 'best in class' with sailing education and awarded the The American National Standards for Sailing Training seal of approval by the United States Coast Guard and NASBLA.

Sailing Excursions

Cruise and learn on 5-day sailing excursions in the Puget Sound. Certifications and diving are optional.

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Private Charter & Instruction

Enjoy sailing on the Puget Sound while being trained privately or sailing with a Captained charter.

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Diving

The Puget Sound boasts many fantastic diving spots. Diving is optional on excursions and private sailing.

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What do you want to learn?

Capt. Somervell is a top NauticEd sailing instructor who managed many of the largest sailing programs in the Northwest before beginning Chance Encounters.  You will learn through a fully accredited sailing program that adheres to the U.S. Coast Guard's American National Standards for sailing training. The certifications are recognized by yacht chartering companies around the world.

Each course combines NauticEd's online knowledge courses with Capt. Somervell's on-the-water training. The benefits are many: get started immediately, work at your own pace, and make the most of your on-the-water time with Capt. Somervell's hands-on practical instruction.

Crew member training

An excellent certification if new to sailing or along for the ride. Learn to be a knowledgeable and contributing crew member on small and large keelboats.

Bareboat Charter Master

Recommended for our excursions: learn advanced sailing techniques, boat management and become certified for yacht chartering worldwide.

NauticEd SLC license

International Sailing License & Credentials (SLC)

The SLC is a recreational sailing license valid for all yacht charter companies worldwide including Europe and the Seychelles.

Offshore Certification

Comprehensive training for serious blue water sailors and those sailing more than 20 miles offshore.  When sailing beyond the sight of land, you need to be prepared with the best information and training available.