Caribbean Sailing Coach Michael Domican has helped hundreds of sailors improve their skills. In their own words, here’s what a sample have to say about their experience …
I chartered a catamaran, along with two friends, with the goal of taking our ASA 104 & 114 certifications in the BVI. Being new to the chartering process, there were many details to manage, schedules to coordinate, and so forth.
While it seemed daunting at first, Michael made the process easy. He was very responsive, helpful and knowledgeable throughout the entire process of planning our trip.
Once we were on the boat and working our way through the coursework, Michael was patient, extremely knowledgeable and very quick to offer teaching, assistance, and answers to questions, all while sharing countless observations and tips about sailing in the BVI. His deep knowledge of all aspects of the islands allowed my friends and I to walk away not only with sailing knowledge, but how to successfully plan and enjoy a trip in the BVI. And we walked away with some great restaurant recommendations too!
When it comes to sailing instruction and ASA coursework, Michael’s patience and depth of knowledge gave us the confidence to learn in a hands-on way. Toward the end of our trip, Michael turned over the reins to my friends and I, and we were able to successfully sail the boat ourselves for multiple days! Although we knew Michael was in the background, watching out for our safety, it was gratifying to be given the freedom to learn on our own, and the confidence we gained from that experience cannot be overstated. Upon completion of our coursework and charter, my friends and I are confident we can charter our own catamarans and have safe and fun sailing vacations with our families and friends.
Overall, I heartily recommend Michael to anyone interested in learning to sail in the BVI (or anywhere else, for that matter!). He is a great travel companion, patient instructor, and calming presence on a boat. If you’re interested in chartering a boat in the BVI and/or sailing instruction, do yourself a favor and contact Michael!
Joe 2024 Chartered Catamaran
Three of us were looking for an instructional week in the BVIs to learn the “ropes” (I mean lines) of chartering a catamaran while obtaining our ASA 104 & 114 certification. Fortunately we found Michael. He quickly became both a mentor and peer.
The 1st couple days we were immersed in learning the techniques of sailing, mooring and anchoring a 45 ft cat. Michael provided guidance to teach us techniques and optimize the boats performance.
Our trip did have its fair share of unforeseen issues such as a neighbor dragging anchor hitting out boat in the middle of the night and a couple twisted lines – Michael taught us how to handle these events and these are things you cannot learn in a book!
As the week went on, we improved our skills and we became more independent running the boat. When we had questions, Micheal was there to provide insight. By the end of the trip, we were comfortable with our ability to charter a boat on our own in the future and that was our ultimate goal!
When we were moored or anchored at night, the stories and comaraderie built a lasting friendship. I would recommend Michael to anyone looking for a captain in the BVIs.
David 2024 Chartered Catamaran
We chartered a monohull in the BVI with the purpose of allowing our 18 year old son to complete his certification with NauticEd. We are not sailors but our son is.
With no knowledge of what to expect, Michael helped us get organized before reaching the BVI. He was extremely resourceful and helpful. Although our son was being certified and we were simply passengers there for the ride, we could not help but start to get interested and Michael patiently answered our questions.
In fact, Michael made the journey extremely enjoyable. During the day, we would learn about sailing and at night over a G & T and dinner we would have great discussions about history and other topics of interest. We never expected to learn so much!
Our son picked up some great tips and took home with him more knowledge than he expected. He discussed his future in the marine industry with Michael and was given great advice and many things to think about.
This was more than just a sailing experience, it was a trip to remember….one of those that will go down in the books and be remembered with fondness. It will also go down as a life changing experience for our son. Without a doubt, Michael made the trip!
Bridget & Paolo 2023 Chartered Monohull
“While never having taken formal sailing lessons, I have decades of monohull experience as an owner and charterer. My friends and family, however, were intrigued by the comfort and space offered by catamaran cruising.
At first I thought about winging on our first catamaran charter but soon came to my senses and was very pleased I did. I was quite fortunate to have found Michael, an infinite source of sailing knowledge.
His teaching style was calm, to the point and delivered with endless patience. I now feel very confident to sail, anchor, moor and dock a 45’ catamaran. I learned many tips on sailing and cruising as a bonus not to mention 101, 103, 104 & 114 certifications.
Regardless of your previous sailing experience, Michael can get you up to speed in no time. You will hear his voice as you take to the water: “Do you walk that fast? Hover, look side and forward like a tennis match. Slow is pro.
I eagerly await the upcoming 4th edition of his SmarterCharter Catamaran Guide containing much of his sailing wisdom (he also has one for monohulls & power cats). Great job! ”
Martha 2022 Chartered Catamaran
“Planning to take sailing classes far from home during the best of times can be stressful – all the unknowns of planning, traveling, provisioning, etc. Added to it, the difficult year(s) of Covid limiting travel and safety.
Yet despite challenges, we decided to escape to our favorite place of rest, relaxation and adventure – the beautiful islands of the BVI.
Armed with being fully vaccinated and meeting all travel requirements, we arrived to find the island residents well prepared for a safe and delightful time for visitors – and always ready to assist with a smile.
Spending the holidays on “island time” is a different kind of magical – one that is not filled with last minute gift shopping, grumpy holiday travelers, and the usual hectic countdown we usually encounter. Rather a marvelous beauty that really must be experienced to fully appreciate!
It’s a sun-filled destination unlike any other, in that, you have the freedom to totally make it your own special private place, away from it all, or with your favorite friends.
Michael turned out to be a master of his craft! He is a lifelong passionate sailer and has enjoyed an exceptional career traveling the world, sharing his skills professionally at all levels of sailing and boating. A truly remarkable gentlemen and we enjoyed getting to know him personally and professionally.
Michael did not seek to become a book author (“the Smarter Charter Catamaran Guide), but it turns out many students kept asking to be reminded of his many “pearls” of wisdom after class was over! We highly recommend reading his book prior to your instructional cruise, as it will make learning and communication much easier!
Michael is very personable with his witty “British humor” and loves to share stories, when asked, about his many types of adventures. Our thirst for knowledge was quenched on so many topics and we were thankful that Michael truly enjoys sharing his skills and it shows in how he instructed us.
We appreciated Michael’s individualized approach to teaching. Our boating skills were not at the same starting level (as I am sure it is with many couples) and Michael quickly assessed our needs and abilities.
Our time with Michael proved to be just what we asked of him – to learn as much as possible in a short time, to have fun be challenged to advance our skills.
Michael patiently filled in “as needed” support with skill basics as he’s a stickler for getting it right! We greatly appreciated his willingness to repeat instructions as needed.
A favorite morning mantra he called out every time prior to getting underway was “water out, people in, look good” – a great habit for safety and respect for others also enjoying the beauty of the BVI islands.
We plan to return soon to learn more from our newly favorite British sailor!”
Pam & Marty 2022 Chartered Catamaran
“I’m fresh off a 7-day charter with Michael and enjoyed every minute of the journey. He is an incredible instructor and is very patient when helping us learn new skills.
Our group worked through both the 104 and 114 certifications during our time in the BVI. Michael helped to seamlessly blend teaching the curriculum needed for the these courses while still making it feel like a vacation.
I cannot recommend Michael enough to anyone out there looking to continue their sailing education. He’s definitely the instructor you need to book!”
Teal 2022 Chartered Catamaran
“Michael came recommended to us as it had been 20 years since our last charter, and I was wanting to complete the practical assessment for NauticEd certification. More importantly, I wanted to provide the best possible vacation experience for our guests.
Michael hit a home run on every front. As an instructor, Michael was a consummate professional with an easy-going style focusing on safety and the fundamentals.
We progressed through the coursework methodically and he engaged everyone on board. As a BVI local, he provided valuable insight into the best moorings, activities and restaurants.
Michael was also a pleasure to be around, and we truly enjoyed his company. Whether you need a captain, or an instructor, your BVI experience will be enhanced with Michael aboard.”
Russell 2022 Chartered Catamaran
Michael is as thorough instructor as you could possibly hope for. His teaching method, while rigorous, will be with you forever (“people in, water out and look sharp” will be your mantra the rest of your sailing days!).
We did three ASA courses (103, 104, and 114) with Michael over 9 days, and we recently went on a charter with friends with years and years and miles and miles of experience, and we were much more technical and aware of what needed to be done than the others. Pulling into anchorages, we were the show, but in a good way; we never missed a ball and our anchor always set fast. We got compliments at the fuel dock for our “slow as a pro” approach. We felt so secure in the knowledge that Michael provided us, that we’re so excited for our next sailing adventures.
From 8 to 5 Michael is all business, but after 5, his personality really shines through and he is a pleasure to talk to and is well versed on almost any topic. We had a blast with Michael, but that could be because we brought him a little taste of home – Marmite.
If you want to learn, and learn the right way, have fun and see the best of the BVI, Michael is your guy”.
Dan and Jill 2021 Chartered Catamaran
“Seeing boats sail away into the sunset from my window during COVID lockdown made me wish I was on a boat and not in my apartment.
During the next 18 months I read all I could about sailing and signed up for ASA 101, 103, 104, 105 and 118 and got my certifications. Next step was chartering and the question came up: bareboat or captain?
My wife, being a lot smarter than me, bought the SmarterCharter Guide. As we read it, we realized how many details there were about chartering. Plus, at the time we wanted to charter, COVID restrictions added a layer of complexity. We had the option to learn by doing but figured we’d be better off with some hand-holding during our first time out and avoid potential costly mistakes.
After a weeklong charter during Thanksgiving week we were so happy with our decision to charter with Michael. His knowledge made the entire process easy. He was always available via email before the charter to answer questions and was a joy to be with during the charter. There was so much we learned—particularly little things that are not taught in textbooks—that end up being the ones that make all the difference.
Our experience was top notch!”
Manny 2021 Chartered Monohull
“After chartering a fully crewed catamaran in the BVI over a decade ago, I had always wanted to learn how to sail one myself. Last summer, I mentioned this to my 23 year old daughter and she said “I want to learn too!” So we set off on an adventure to learn together.
We completed our ASA 101 class locally but decided to return to BVI to take ASA 103, 104, and 114.
We considered a number of options including local classes, group learning at a sailing school in the Caribbean, or a private instructor.
I spoke with nearly a dozen schools and did a ton of research. When I finally came across Michael and spoke with him, I knew I had found the best option. He was a fantastic instructor and led us clearly and calmly through all of the on-boat skills we needed to succeed. However, he was also invaluable as a resource via both email and telephone when I was planning the trip — everything from finding a charter yacht to provisioning and making it through the covid protocols.
Our charter was 10 days but under Michael’s excellent tutelage we completed all of the ASA course-work in half that time. But it wasn’t all work! We got to snorkel, swim and explore a number of harbors and anchorages. For the second half of our trip, we were able to apply the newly acquired knowledge as we tried out our skills sailing to new islands.
Michael was there if we had questions and for advice when we encountered a new situation but stayed in the background so we could test our sailing skills on our own. By the end of the trip we had developed the confidence to handle everything from tacking to jibing, anchoring, mooring, docking, and refueling. More importantly, we learned all of the nuances and ‘local knowledge’ required to vacation on a cruising catamaran in the BVI.”
Don and Brianna 2022 Chartered Catamaran
“Michael was great in all areas. He was very good at working through the testing while working with others on the boat to stay connected.
He knows his stuff and his vast experience in both cruising and racing helps in making it all click. And with his RYA certifications he know the proper way to instruct. I enjoyed my time with Michael he made the week very enjoyable! A five star instructor.”
Doug and Kathy 2021 Chartered Catamaran 2023 Own Catamaran
“I needed to find a captain in the BVI to conduct an on-the-water assessment in my final step to attaining the SLC certification. I got connected to Michael. How fortunate I was. He is a consummate professional with an engaging personality.
For anyone looking for an instructor, you can’t go wrong with Michael’s easy-going manner of instruction and attention to detail and for anyone seeking a great captain for a charter boat, you will have a wonderful experience with him aboard.”
Doug and Holly 2019 Chartered Monohull
“My 21 yr old son and I had the pleasure of Michael teaching us the ASA 103, 104 & 114 courses on a 42 ft. catamaran during our week in the BVI’s. Michael did a wonderful job of balancing the instruction, hands on skills with the fun of enjoying the beauty of the BVI’s.
My wife and 2 daughters were also on the boat with us….We all agreed it was the best trip ever! We are hooked on sailing and now have a major post sailing withdrawals. We successfully completed the courses and most importantly gained a lot of confidence in our skills. We look forward to captaining our own boat soon.”
David and Reed 2019 Chartered Catamaran
“ After a number of sailing classes and weeklong sailing trips we felt ready for a longer and bigger challenge. I was looking for a chance to do nearly all of the sail work with someone to help adjust and guide as we went.
My wife liked swimming, sea life and good places to eat. We both got what we were looking for on our two week sail trip with Michael.
The trip included plenty of chances to practice going through customs doing check in and out, use of a Q flag, an anchor ball and of course the courtesy flag of the country we were visiting at the time. A highlight of the trip was visiting the Dutch island of Saba but it was also a thrill to practice Mediterranean style mooring to the town quay on French St Barths.
There are sailing activities we thought we knew what we were doing. Michael showed us a better way. One of these was having my wife drive the boat with me doing the anchoring and mooring. We still do this today and my wife clearly remembers Michael’s instruction.
Our trip began with a night sail from the BVI to St. Martin. I am very happy to have had this experience however, next time my wife will probably fly to St. Martin and wait for me to arrive. Our best day of sailing took us from Nevis to St Martin. The wind was perfect and it really was a thrilling ride.
I found Michael to be conscientious to areas where we could use some improvement. I was also amazed at his keen eyes while out on the water. While sailing back to the BVI Michael saw a pod of dolphins approaching at 90 degrees off the bow. He had us ready before they even arrived. We thoroughly enjoyed watching all of them swim around us for quite some time.”
Chris and Judy 2019 Own Catamaran
“You know that feeling after you make a decision that turns out perfectly?
That’s how you’ll feel when you ask Michael to coach you during your next BVI sailing adventure. We know … we’re still feeling it.”
Bob and Alice 2019 Chartered Catamaran
“Our BVI trips have been flawless with Michael’s fantastic instruction the last few years. He turned a dinghy racer with no bluewater experience—and a brand new sailer—into a couple who confidently pilots throughout the islands with ease. His knowledge base and gentle approach put us at ease, yet encouraged us. For us, he’s more than a coach and love having him as a friend.”
Arthur and Khristina 2015–2018 Chartered Monohull and Catamarans
“We all truly enjoyed your company, conversations and your style of instruction.
I especially appreciated you giving the logic as to why things were done a certain way; the context in your explanations helped me tremendously.”
Frank & Laura 2018–19 Private Catamaran
“Michael has sailed with me as a private coach numerous times during the last ten years. As a long-time instructor, Michael knows how to strike the right balance between maintaining a rigorous and focused teaching program while also being able to settle back when the time is right to enjoy the boat, the company and the beautiful surroundings that pervade the BVI.”
Stuart 2013–2024 Chartered Monohulls and Catamaran
“Michael’s skill, confidence and calm demeanor make us totally at ease honing our sailing skills while gaining confidence with our Lagoon 450. It’s such a pleasure to have him aboard he’s become like one of the family!”
Rich & Sharon 2013–2018 Private Catamaran
“It was great having Michael to teach me the ASA 104 course on my own boat. He has a vast amount of sailing knowledge and experience in US, British, and International waters and he also gave me advice for my upcoming US Coast Guard Captain’s license. I also appreciated his knowledge of British maritime history and our discussions of American history in the evenings.”
Erik 2017 Private Catamaran
“Alex is still asking me when we can sail next–a good thing since I’ll need some type of crew. We enjoyed our sailing adventure with you and especially the beautiful beaches. I hope we get a chance to do it again.”
Andrew 2017 Chartered Catamaran
“Trained by the best captain/instructor in the BVI. Solo the week after his classes. Thanks Michael for instructing not only how to sail, but also how to do it in the proper way.”
Kirk 2017 Private Catamaran
Your 6 days of instruction exceeded our expectations and was very much worth the cost; still wondering how you managed the great weather and extra wind!
Your instruction was very professional and your patience in providing the basis for the techniques and principles — in addition to the execution — was appreciated and helped embed the lesson.
We intend to reinforce the instruction as soon as possible and accept your suggestion to sail with us on an Island Packet as an introduction to that boat. I forgot to inquire on techniques for sailing with multiple foresails; perhaps next time on the Island Packet. Best wishes and good fortune with your book.”
Jerry & Sue 2016 Chartered Monohull
“Michael is becoming a regular on our Lagoon 52. He is a skilled sailing instructor, professional and extremely knowledgeable. Michael, your patience is amazing! Having you on the boat made our trip relaxing and enjoyable. We were in good hands. Thank you!
Barbara & Larry 2015 and 2016 Private Catamaran
“Michael just wanted to say thanks for the last two days. We really appreciated your patience and insight.”
Megan & Jeff 2016 Private Monohull
“I sailed with Michael in May of 2016 as a chaperone for a pack of teenagers from the Seattle area. We were on five 35 and 36′ Bavaria monohulls for the ASA 101 sailing certificate. Most of the kids had never sailed. After only one day with the armada, it was quite clear that I and my four “charges” were on the best boat – because Michael was our skipper and instructor.
We got to observe how all the other boats were run, and were glad we had Michael as our skipper. His perfect mix of professionalism, incredible experience and skill, calmness, and sociability made the 8 day cruise a pleasure.
Even though it was sometimes a challenge to keep the kids focused, Michael ran them through all the paces needed to pass the ASA test with great success, and never lost his cool. Not simply by executing the “how” of tacks, gibes, line handling, etc, but by explaining the “whys” of everything both before and during each maneuver to help it to better sink in. I must admit, I was worried when exam day came around as 14 year olds are pretty scatter brained these days.
However, the proof of Michael’s instruction shined as all the boys passed the test with flying colors (even me with a 98 out of a 100!) Part of that, I believe, is his encyclopedic knowledge of the origin of all the sailing terms and words. As in, you know why is this called a halyard; why is this called starboard, etc. It really helped in learning and remembering things about the boat and the process of sailing. So, the week ended a big success.
Hopefully, I can convince my non-sailing spouse to come back the the BVI’s someday for a charter with Michael. I think she’ll become a convert! Thanks, Michael for a great experience! ”
Matt 2016 Chartered Monohull
“Thanks again for your thorough, professional, and helpful coaching on our charter catamaran this June. We had a marvelous time for the remainder of the charter and I am happy to say that we were able to sail her without incident.
The guidance you gave me on close quarters maneuvering was extremely valuable. At the end of the charter even the dock hands seemed impressed with how I brought the cat gently in to the dock. And our mooring pickups during the entire week were all flawless, never missing a mooring on the first attempt.
Our tacks were getting very good as the week progressed…and you were right (of course)…that no backing of the jib was required if we got our speed up and made a quick turn….it worked out very well for us all week. And at the helm upwind and down, looking at the sails (and not the instruments) …. as you made a point of reminding me not to do….was much faster and safer. My most sincere thanks for helping us to become more comfortable with our first charter boat, our first catamaran, and our first time in the BVI. I will be calling on you for some more of your terrific coaching and expertise.”
David & Melody 2016 Chartered Catamaran
“At the beginning of instruction, Michael mentioned that we had skills enough, such that the charter company would have rented without an instructor. How nice. Yet, had we been foolish enough to do so, things would not have gone as smoothly; not in the least.
Though glad we asked for an instructor, in hindsight we remain ecstatic that our instructor was Michael Domican. With extensive knowledge of sailing and the BVI, he proved indispensable to our trip enjoyment. He led us to the breeziest anchorages for our un-air-conditioned monohull, in what the locals deemed a very hot October.
At the conclusion of our trip, Michael wrote us to jest that we likely had “a more relaxing time without the instructor putting you through ‘skills and drills’.” To be honest, the only reason it was relaxing, was because we had been his students! Michael presented everything in the highest degree of friendly, positive, and extremely thorough manner of instruction and seamanship.
With Michael, our learning curves were steep. Yet, left on our own, we both felt comfortable pushing our limits. Prior to the trip, my wife, a novice, confided that she’d begun to dread our upcoming two week BVI sail, as she feared her lack of sailing knowledge and skills, and doubted her ability to ”pick things up quickly enough.” With Michael’s skill, finesse, and extraordinary patience, he turned my wife into a terrific crew and capable helmsman, confident in abilities to skipper; and, more importantly, bark orders at her crew [me] in a most gentle and loving manner, even so far as to offer me needed corrections.
It was thrilling to see her lose her fear of sailing and come to love it. This would never have happened without the excellent instruction of Michael. We look forward to our next sailing adventure in the BVI, and another chance to further our skills with The Master, whom we feel is also a good friend”.
Chris & Carol-Ann 2015 Chartered Monohull
“Five friends and I spent a week with Michael learning to sail in the BVI. I cannot say strongly enough what an excellent adventure it was. Michael has more sailing knowledge than the saltiest dog on the ocean, and more patience than Job. He taught us the ropes (literally) and could not have been a better instructor or a more congenial shipboard companion. I would highly recommend Michael and his training services to anyone who wants to learn to sail or who just needs a good guide the BVI and nearby islands. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had.”
Patrick 2015 Chartered Catamaran
“My wife and I first met Michael on a private week long course several years ago. Our week with Michael was one of the most challenging, rewarding and fun weeks we’ve ever had. We started with very little experience and ended with the confidence and skill to bareboat a 46′ Cat, which we’ve done numerous times since. My wife particularly appreciated Michael’s calm, patient, and encouraging approach to instruction and the way he would have her try things first so she would not feel intimidated if something came easier for me. I was in awe Michael’s depth of knowledge and his ability to convey it. As fellow Foodies, we both enjoyed Michael’s zest for the good food and wine we shared on board. I’ve gone on to do more advanced training with Michael which I plan to continue, and every time we are in the BVI we make sure to get the families together. We didn’t only find a great sailing coach, we met a great friend.”
Rich & Karlene 2014 Chartered Catamaran
“It is still hard to believe but I started with no offshore experience and we have just sailed our 44′ catamaran 8000 miles from Buenos Aires to Maine. Michael gave me the confidence to navigate our boat in strong winds and taught us proper sail handling skills that make jobs easy and safe.”
Gail 2013 Private Catamaran
“Michael was a very good instructor. Our hands-on experience was the best. He said to show him how we sailed. We did and then he said ‘Now I will show you the easiest and safest way to do it.’ He demonstrated the proper way and then put the boat in our hands under his supervision. By the end of the instruction, Sue was docking our 44ft sailboat with confidence and I was handling the lines to secure the boat. Our time spent with Michael made all the difference in our sailing experiences.”
Jack & Sue 2012 Private Monohull
“Michael was a very good instructor. Our hands-on experience was “I’ve had the privilige of having Michael as my private instructor twice over the past five years. When you have him as an instructor you get the complete package, a skilled and learned professional with a passion for sailing and also a friend who will raise a glass with you after an incredible day of sailing. What I’ve learned from Michael has allowed my family and I to live the dream of sailing exotic locals and owning a catamaran in the BVI”
Billy 2009–2016 Chartered Catamarans