Workshops & Seminars

Book a workshop, seminar, or demonstration you want to go to during the Ladybug Event.

Expand your sailing knowledge and skills with our exciting lineup of workshops, demonstrations, and seminars at the Ladybug Event! Whether you’re an experienced sailor looking to refine your techniques or a beginner seeking to gain confidence on the water, our range of sessions has something for everyone. From hands-on demonstrations to our Introduction to Sailing course, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from seasoned sailors and take your abilities to the next level. Review our available workshops and seminars, and select the ones that best fit your interests or needs to enhance your sailing journey!

The Maiden Factor with Tracy Edwards

Tracy Edwards, Founder of The Maiden Factor
Tracy Edwards
9AM - 9:45AM Via Zoom / Limited Space
ALL POINTS YACHT SALES CLASSROOM

Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Tracy Edwards, the trailblazing sailor and founder of The Maiden Factor.

During this exclusive Zoom session, Tracy will share her extraordinary journey, discuss the ongoing mission of The Maiden Factor, and inspire women to push boundaries both on and off the water. This is a rare opportunity to engage with a true pioneer in sailing and advocacy, hear her firsthand experiences, and ask your own questions.

Sponsored by: The Maiden Factor

Tracy Edwards, Founder of The Maiden Factor

LINE HANDLING & EYE SPLICING DYNEMA

Dale Edgar
DALE EDGAR
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM .................... ON THE DOCK

Sharpen your seamanship skills in this hands-on, 45-minute workshop designed to build confidence and competence with line handling aboard a sailing vessel. Led by seasoned instructors, you’ll learn essential techniques including knot tying, line coiling, and proper communication when managing lines and halyards.

This session also includes a practical introduction to eye splicing with Dyneema, a high-performance, lightweight line widely used in modern sailing. Participants will learn the step-by-step process of creating a strong, reliable eye splice—an essential skill for customizing and maintaining rigging onboard.

Sponsored by: Sail Science, LLC

Sample Line

SAILOR’S PEN: NAVIGATING WRITING AND PUBLISHING ABOARD

Melaine Neale
MELANIE SUNSHINE NEALE
10:00 AM ....................................... ON THE DOCK G22

Join us for a captivating seminar featuring the remarkable speaker behind the novel “Boat Girl”, who not only grew up navigating the world on a sailboat with her family but also crafted a literary masterpiece while living aboard. In this engaging session, she will offer a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of writing and publishing while at sea. Drawing from her personal experiences, Melanie will share insights int the symbiotic relationship between a seafaring lifestyle and the creative process. Expect a journey through the pages of her narrative and a firsthand account of how the rhythmic rocking of the boat and the endless horizon inspired the creation and publication of “Boat Girl”. This seminar is a must-attend for writes, sailing enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of literature and life afloat.

Sponsored by: Sunshine Cruising Yachts

Boat Girl

INBOARD DIESEL ENGINES - 101

St Augustine Sailing - Sunset Sailing Charters - Learn to sail - Sailing lessons - Sailing classes
JUSTIN MCNAB
11:00 AM ... All Points Yacht Sales - Classroom

Join us for an informative seminar on basic inboard diesel engine maintenance led by Justin, First Mate’s master mechanic. In this engaging session, Justin will cover fundamental issues related to inboard diesel engines, providing essential insights on troubleshooting common problems and performing basic maintenance tasks. From understanding the components of your engine to addressing issues such as fuel system maintenance and cooling system checks, participants will gain valuable knowledge to keep their engines running smoothly on the water. Following the presentation, Justin will open the floor for questions, ensuring that attendees have the opportunity to delve deeper into specific concerns or areas of interest. With Justin’s expertise and hands-on approach, this seminar promises to empower participants with the skills and confidence needed to tackle basic inboard diesel engine maintenance effectively. 

Sponsored by: FIRST MATE YACHT SERVICES

Inboard,Engine,On,A,Saling,Yacht - diesel engine 101 workshop ladybug race event with First Mate

MARINE AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE

Lance
LANCE BURKIN
11:00 AM .......................................... ON THE DOCK

Learn the basics of maintaining and troubleshooting your marine air conditioning system in this practical, hands-on workshop. From filter cleaning and seawater flow checks to diagnosing common issues, our experienced instructors will guide you through essential tasks to keep your system running efficiently and reliably while out on the water.

Sponsored by:  All Points Yacht Sales 

Marine AC

COOKING DEMONSTRATION

All Points Yacht Sales - Rose Ann
ROSE ANN POINTS
12:00 PM ...................................... ON THE DOCK G26

 Join us for an exclusive cooking demonstration where we’ll unravel the air of cooking aboard.  Learn the secrets of crafting gourmet meals in the confines of a yacht’s galley, turning limited space into a real of culinary creativity.  Our experienced chef will guide you through techniques and tips to elevate your onboard dining experience.  From cooking tools to mastering compact kitchen essentials, you will leave inspired and equipped to savor delectable dishes while navigating the high seas.  Don’t miss this unique opportunity to unlock the flavors of the ocean with us. 

Sponsored by:  St Augustine Sailing

St Augustine Sailing - All Points Yacht Sales - Sip N Sail - Brunch - Girls day - Charcuterie - Foodie - Things to do in St Augustine

INTRO TO SAILING WORKSHOP

St Augustine Sailing - Sailing - Northeast Florida - All Points Yacht Sales - Yachts for Sale - Boats for Sale - Dinner Cruise - Charcuterie - Weddings in Florida - Unique Wedding Venues - Proposal
VARIOUS INSTRUCTORS
9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM

If you  have ever yearned to set sail but felt overwhelmed by the where to begin, seize the opportunity now.  With just a minimum of two people, our introductory workshop session offers a perfect initiation into the world of sailing aboard our day sailor.  In just two hours, you’ll grasp the fundamentals, empowering you to gauge whether sailing ignites a newfound passion within you. Dive into theis experience and discover the thrill of harnessing the wind and navigating the waters. 

Sponsored by:  St Augustine Sailing 

Intro to Sailing small boat sailing club learn to sail

MEDICAL PREPAREDNESS AT SEA

Dale Edgar
DALE EDGAR
1:00 PM ...................................... ON THE DOCK G25

Medical Preparedness at Sea is  a comprehensive seminar designed to equip boaters with the vital knowledge and tools necessary for maintaining health and safety while cruising open waters. Covering a range of topics from common ailments to emergency scenarios, this seminar delves into the essential items every medical kit should contain, tailored specifically for the challenges cruisers face. Participants will learn about proper medication storage, wound care techniques, and the importance of medical training for effective response to onboard medical emergencies. Whether seasoned sailors or novice adventurers, attendees will leave equipped with the confidence and resources to navigate health concerns at sea effectively.

Sponsored by: Sail Science, LLC

Ladybug Medical Preparedness at Sea

LEARN THE ROPES

St Augustine Sailing - Sailing - Northeast Florida - All Points Yacht Sales - Yachts for Sale - Boats for Sale - Dinner Cruise - Charcuterie - Weddings in Florida - Unique Wedding Venues - Proposal
VARIOUS INSTRUCTORS
9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM

If you  have ever yearned to set sail but felt overwhelmed by the where to begin, seize the opportunity now.  With just a minimum of two people, our introductory workshop session offers a perfect initiation into the world of sailing aboard our day sailor.  In just two hours, you’ll grasp the fundamentals, empowering you to gauge whether sailing ignites a newfound passion within you. Dive into theis experience and discover the thrill of harnessing the wind and navigating the waters. 

Sponsored by:  St Augustine Sailing 

St Augustine Sailing - Women on the Water - Empowering women - Women sailors - Women Captains

CPR CERTIFICATION - AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

illustration of cpr technique
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATE
1:00 PM ..........ALL POINTS YACHTS CLASSROOM

Join us during the Ladybug Event for a life-saving opportunity! St. Augustine Sailing is proud to host an American Heart Association CPR Certification Class right in our on-site classroom. This professionally led session is open to the public and limited to just 10 attendees, ensuring personalized instruction and hands-on learning.

For $100 per person, participants will receive comprehensive CPR training and earn their official American Heart Association certification—a valuable skill that could one day help save a life. Whether you’re a sailor, a parent, or simply someone who wants to be prepared, this course is a great way to build confidence in emergency response techniques.

Spots are limited and will fill quickly—secure your place today and empower yourself with the knowledge to make a difference.

Sponsored by: American Heart Association

CPR AED TRAINING

MARINE AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE

Lance
LANCE BURKIN
2:00 PM .......................................... ON THE G DOCK

Learn the basics of maintaining and troubleshooting your marine air conditioning system in this practical, hands-on workshop. From filter cleaning and seawater flow checks to diagnosing common issues, our experienced instructors will guide you through essential tasks to keep your system running efficiently and reliably while out on the water.

Sponsored by:  All Points Yacht Sales 

Marine AC

CPR CERTIFICATION - AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

illustration of cpr technique
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATE
3:00 PM ..........ALL POINTS YACHTS CLASSROOM

Join us during the Ladybug Event for a life-saving opportunity! St. Augustine Sailing is proud to host an American Heart Association CPR Certification Class right in our on-site classroom. This professionally led session is open to the public and limited to just 10 attendees, ensuring personalized instruction and hands-on learning.

For $100 per person, participants will receive comprehensive CPR training and earn their official American Heart Association certification—a valuable skill that could one day help save a life. Whether you’re a sailor, a parent, or simply someone who wants to be prepared, this course is a great way to build confidence in emergency response techniques.

Spots are limited and will fill quickly—secure your place today and empower yourself with the knowledge to make a difference.

Sponsored by: American Heart Association

CPR AED TRAINING

MARINE INSURANCE

TBD Speaker
KERRI GONZALES
3:00 PM .......................................... ON THE G DOCK

Navigating the complexities of marine insurance is a critical part of being a responsible boat owner. our expert guest speakers will break down the essentials of marine insurance—from liability and hull coverage to hurricane plans and liveaboard policies. Whether you’re a new sailor, a seasoned cruiser, or considering your first yacht purchase, this session will help demystify the fine print and ensure you’re properly protected on the water.

Learn what insurers look for during underwriting, how to document and protect your vessel, what to do in the event of damage or a claim, and how policy requirements vary based on location, use, and ownership structure. This seminar is perfect for both private boat owners and those participating in shared ownership or charter programs.

Sponsored by: AMG Insurance International

Ladybug Marine Insurance

LADYBUG EVENT
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Yachts in the harbor - Racing - Ladybug Race - Navigating the waves - Spring - Sailing - Sailing in St Augustine - Yachts

Join us for an exciting two-day celebration at St. Augustine Sailing!
May 3 explore our In-Water Boat Show featuring both new and pre-owned vessels, attend free marine workshops like Diesel 101, Medical Preparedness at Sea, Air Conditioning Maintenance, and more.

Enjoy a special Keynote Presentation by Tracy Edwards, renowned sailor and trailblazer.

On May 4th, don’t miss the One-Design Race – sign up to crew or hop aboard the spectator boat and cheer on the action!

Everyone is welcome – come be part of the fun!