How to Sail Around The World

with Jamie & Behan Gifford | Sailing Totem

A comprehensive, information-packed seminar about launching a safe and successful circumnavigation.

Live 3 Hour Seminar

Hosted By Jamie & Behan Gifford

Live Q&A

This live seminar in Annapolis, MD will delve into the essentials of circumnavigation. Hosts Jamie and Behan Gifford, with a combined sixteen years of full-time cruising experience and one successful circumnavigation under their belts, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the seminar. Their journey aboard Totem, a Stevens 47, has taken them through 48 countries and 65,000 miles of trouble-free sailing. Together, they offer valuable insights ranging from boat selection and cruising economics to routing, provisioning, and technical troubleshooting.

NO BOAT SHOW TICKET REQUIRED TO ATTEND SEMINAR

REVIEW

We think it's important to share why we’re so passionate about teaching you what we've learned about sailing. See, we teach it because we live it. It wasn’t too long ago that we were trying to figure out how to chart our journey and set sail. We did all the research, watched the YouTube videos, and read thousands of articles and blog posts. Everyone was saying something different! It was overwhelming and made the decision to start our adventure even harder. Quite frankly, we were nearly terrified... But we didn't give up on our dream life. Through trial and error we found what works, and more importantly, what doesn’t work. Over the last few years, we’ve been able to help change thousands of people’s lives by sharing our experiences.

Chris and Keith of Bluewater Cruising

Annapolis • October 10-14, 2024

This year, during the Annapolis Sailboat Show, American Sailing will be offering a lineup of live, in-person seminars led by some of the world's most esteemed and well-known sailors covering an array of topics - from mastering marine diesel engines and navigating the complexities of boat electronics to insider tips on purchasing the perfect cruising boat. Our expert-led sessions will cover essential topics for every sailor. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just setting course, these seminars will offer invaluable insights meant to enhance your sailing journey.

Choose A Seminar

How To Sail Around The World

Who is this class for?

This live session is a must for any sailor who has fantasized about setting sail towards distant horizons! Whether you're aiming to complete a circumnavigation loop (which we’ll address in particular) or just yearning to venture far beyond coastal waters, this seminar will equip you with essential insights and inspiration to turn your voyaging dreams into reality.

What Will I Learn?

During this comprehensive live session, Behan and Jamie will share the tools and knowledge of preparation essentials, starting with the markers for a plan that works. Learn how to acquire the necessary sailing experience, choose the right vessel for your circumnavigation or exploration plans, and how to safely and successfully plan your route across the globe. They'll also be sharing invaluable insights into personal and boat safety, alongside essential maintenance tips to ensure you're fully equipped to conquer the high seas with confidence.

Photo Credit: McDonald Photography

TOPICS COVERED

PART 1 AVAILABLE ON DEMAND

(included with purchase)

Putting a plan together: tools, tips and content
Getting sailing experience: what you need, how to start when you’re starting from scratch
Off-the-boat training from medical to weather
Choosing the right boat for you
Crew considerations
Staying safe: personal security, and weather
Are rallies a good option for you?
Embracing land-shedding: leaving can be the hardest part!

Photo Credit: McDonald Photography

YOUR HOST

JAMIE & BEHAN GIFFORD

Sailing Totem

With three young children, Behan and Jamie sailed Totem, their Stevens 47, south from Puget Sound in 2008. Trading a hectic suburban life for family adventure cruising to Mexico and the South Pacific was meant to be 3 to 5 years. Sixteen years, one circumnavigation, 48 countries, and 65,000 drama-free miles later, they are still cruising full time. Along their way around the world, Behan grew an informative blog at sailingtotem.com into a leading resource for cruising inspiration and know-how. She also co-authored the acclaimed guide, Voyaging With Kids.

Jamie’s mechanical strengths complement Behan’s lifestyle communication: he is a sailmaker/designer, rigger, and well versed in most onboard technical skills. Together, Jamie and Behan present on multiple topics at Cruisers University and other boat shows, are frequent contributors to Cruising World magazine, and manage a coaching service supporting thousands of cruisers. Their expert guidance is broad ranging, from boat selection and cruising economics to routing, provisioning, and technical troubleshooting post-departure.