Hi Mark,
Henry & I had a great week with you and Monty. Although we have been sailing for years when we decided to take our Island Packet to the Bahamas next winter I decided I needed more knowledge as Henry had been doing most of the sailing, etc. while I sat back and read. Also, we have never sailed outside of local waters except to bring the Island Packet down the ICW from the Chesapeake after we purchased it. I talked Henry into taking the course with me, as we have never had any formal instruction in sailing or navigation. It was well worth the time and money for both of us. You and Monty were very adept in identifying our strengths and weaknesses and worked to fill in the gaps. In preparation for the week we expanded our knowledge from study of the books and workbook you sent so were able to get maximum benefit from your instruction. I am now comfortably docking our boat which was a big hurdle for me. Staying on the boat enabled us to glen from you and Monty your vast knowledge of boating and sailing plus tips on boat maintenance. The evenings with you were filled with interesting, comfortable conversation. Thank you again for a delightful week.
Kitty Beard
Camden & Edisto Island, SC |
Hi Mark,
I just wanted to drop you a note to tell you what a wonderful time I had on Windward Mark with Monty. Monty is a great instructor, he pushes you just enough to keep one on track. I have being racing for six years, but still learned a lot. I also now know, that owning a large catamaran is not as glorious as is made out to be!
There is a quotation by Arnold Toynbee on my calendar page today that reminds me of Monty: " The supreme accomplishment is to blur the line between work and play" Way to go Monty.
Thanks,
Dave Overy
Dear Mark, Monty and Will,
Thank you for an incredible sailing experience last week. It was more than we expected and all we could have hoped for. We felt a little guarded when you sent us out with Will the first day. He’s half our age; how much experience could he have? He proved himself in the first ten minutes to be an expert sailor as well as a skilled instructor, not to mention a damn good kid. Will doesn’t just spoon-feed the information, he makes you think about it and absorb it. Monty made it fun – the man-overboard drills were a riot. But you learned. And learned. Thanks for the unplanned side trip to Vizcaya on Sunday. It’s awesome from the water side (pictures attached). We are looking forward to a close up and personal view of Stiltsville next time. Your fleet is perfect. Thanks for having us aboard the catamaran on Saturday after we docked, to watch the playoff game. Can’t wait to see the new boat when we come back. We are so looking forward to seeing you in a couple of months for the next course - this is the most fun we’ve had since the hogs ate Little Brother. (It’s no wonder when our vacationing friends dropped by the boat for a visit, they immediately begged to book with you!)
Best regards,
Paul and Kate Thompson
Hi Mark & Monty,
Just wanted to express my appreciation for a most rewarding weekend learning to sail at your facility. As a complete novice I had no idea what to expect on board a sailboat, but after just three short days under the patient and careful tutoring of Capt. Monty, I felt very confident and had acquired a much greater appreciation and understanding of sailing. I was amazed by how much I had learned in such a short time. The passion you guys have for sailing is evident, which I would imagine accounts for the personal interest you take in those who wish to share your love of sailing on the open water. More than just being great instructors, you all are such a great bunch of guys. Upon completing the course, I had the feeling that, not only had I gained a good deal of knowledge about sailing, but had spent time with two good friends. Loved the bike ride through Charleston to Tommy Condons. A special word to Monty.....thanks buddy for introducing me to sailing, evenings of interesting conversation sharing philosophies, poetry and friendship. You are a remarkable human being. In my opinion, anyone thinking of learning to sail, couldn't find a better place to start their love affair with sailing, than with these wonderful fellows at CSS. The well planned courses... patient and competent instruction...the warmth and genuine concern make for a very fulfilling experience. And to Mark, who went the extra mile in making a doubtful weekend a reality. Your efforts to insure an exceptionally enjoyable experience went above and beyond the normal expectations. Sincere thanks, my friend. You know I'll be planning with great anticipation, my next learning adventure with you and Monty. Looking forward to seeing you all again for the course on coastal cruising 103. God's continued blessings for all your endeavors.
Sincere Best Wishes,
R.L. Whalen
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Mark and Montie,
Jenna and I want you to know how much we appreciate your patient instruction during our 5 days at Charleston Sailing School. From the first day of Mark's classroom instruction, through the following days of sailing with Montie, the course was taught at our level. We began as complete beginners, but ended the week sailing comfortably and certified!
Also, it was a great adventure vacation for this mom and daughter. The beauty of Charleston Harbor, the dolphins swimming in the ocean, the river otters playing beside our dock, the great meals, as well as the shopping on King Street are all memories we will cherish. An added benefit beyond the certification and the memories is that Jenna and I strengthened our relationship. Sailing school actually was a very peaceful way to spend time communicating and working toward a good goal together.
And of course, the birthday cake surprised me. How nice of you to go beyond what was expected (sailing instruction) and show such thoughtfulness. Thanks to you both, my family and I are now a big step closer to bareboat chartering. Thank you again for a great experience.
Rhonda Brubaker
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