I am writing after completing a recent Northern Breezes sailing course in Bayfield, Wisconsin (August 5-8, 2010). Along with a friend, I sailed on Aerie from Pike's Bay Marina and completed ASA 101 (test out) as well as ASA 103 and 104.It's fair to say that, based on your website and ASA information, I had high expectations for the courses. By the end of the course on Sunday, those expectations were exceeded - by a long shot.In particular, I want to commend our instructor, Tony Green. Tony called me in advance to verify my sailing experience as well as dietary needs and other requirements. He told us what to expect as we arrived at Pike's Bay and how the course would unfold, including contingencies for weather and our skill set. When we arrived on Wednesday evening, we got settled in and then went right to work on our boat orientation and 101 test.Throughout the course, Tony was very professional and through, with a good knowledge of local sailing conditions. He taught to our level of ability and was very flexible as we proceeded through the curriculum to accommodate a non-life-threatening medical emergency during our first full day of lessons. Tony was swift in his reaction and ensures the safe transfer of the injured crew to local EMS care, which he arranged for via radio as we were making passage back to the marina. He kept in touch with us the remainder of the day and made sure that we were prepared to continue the course on our return to the marina later that evening.In summary, I enjoyed the course tremendously and learned a great deal. I will recommend Northern Breezes (and Tony) to our sailing friends. We look forward to taking additional courses and chartering with you in the near future.
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