Marine Biology for Cruisers

Cruising sailors spend countless hours immersed in the ocean environment, often witnessing wildlife and natural phenomena few people ever experience. This class introduces cruisers to the fascinating marine ecosystems they travel through, from plankton and seabirds to whales, dolphins, and pelagic fish. You’ll learn how ocean currents, upwelling, and seasonal cycles shape marine life in different cruising grounds, and how to recognize and interpret the wildlife encounters that happen offshore. Understanding the ocean’s ecology adds a deeper layer of appreciation to every passage, particularly when tied to traditional navigation techniques that modern cruisers can utilize and benefit from.