Skipper · instructor · author
Alex Burlakov
chief instructor Navi.trainingAbout the skipper
Experience that starts on deck, not in a classroom
Excellent skipper-instructor and experienced specialist in family yacht cruises. Navi.training skipper team leader
Navi.training
The sea as a profession
Navigation, crew leadership and safety demand more than theory. This is the professional path, practical experience and teaching approach behind the courses.
Expert in Yachting, Ph.D. in Economics, Associate Professor, Journalist, and Television Producer
For over 12 years, I have been immersed in yachting, helping people realize their dreams of maritime adventures. During this time, I have accumulated extensive experience that allows me to effectively teach and inspire my students.
My Experience and Achievements
- Certified ISSA Instructor at Master of Yacht level
- Conducted over 180 successful yacht voyages in various regions around the globe
- Trained more than 200 young skippers, imparting knowledge and skills for safe and enjoyable sailing
- Author of numerous articles and several educational manuals, which assist both beginners and experienced yachtsmen in honing their skills
- Led over 100 yacht training programs, ensuring a high level of participant preparation
Academic Career
I hold a Ph.D. in Economics and am an Associate Professor with extensive teaching experience. My academic endeavors include preparing and conducting courses, developing educational programs, and publishing scientific papers. This enables me to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience, offering my students the most effective teaching methods.
Skills
- ISSA Sailing and Power Instructor (Inshore, Offshore, and Master of Yacht levels)
- Strong planning and organizational skills
- Excellent communication skills developed through daily interactions with colleagues and students
- Analytical mindset and problem-solving abilities
- Proficient in Mac and Linux, programming skills in Python, Django, JavaScript, jQuery, NodeJS, Git, actively participating in open source projects
- Upper Intermediate in English, basic French, fluent in Russian and Ukrainian
- Hobbies: Naturally, yachting is my top priority, but I also enjoy yoga and psychology
Why Me
My mission is to make yachting accessible and understandable for everyone. I believe that the sea is open to all, and with my assistance, you can easily master yachting regardless of your initial level of preparation. If you dream of the sea — you will succeed!
Navi.training
From the ship’s log
Practical seamanship, routes and lessons Alex shares with aspiring and working skippers.
Sailing Superstitions: From Neptune to the Ban on Bananas On Board
Dreaming of sailing adventures? The world of sails is full of mysteries and ancient beliefs. Discover why sailors avoided bananas and women on board. Dive into the captivating world of sailing superstitions! Learn about the most famous shipboard taboos, bad omens, and good luck charms that have brought fortune at sea for centuries. Understand why a woman on a ship was considered bad luck, while a cat on board brought good fortune. Read on to find out which maritime rituals are still alive today and how they unite a crew.
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How GPS Works and the Role of Electronic Navigation in the World of Sailing
Dreaming of sailing adventures but worried about the complexities? Dispel your doubts! Learn how GPS works – the technology that has made the world of sailing not only more accessible but also safer. We'll dive into the history of the global positioning system, explore the working principle of GPS from satellites to your receiver, and show how this system enhances sailing safety, optimizes routes, and reduces costs. We'll discuss GPS on board, compare smartphones with professional chartplotters, and emphasize the importance of traditional navigation methods. Unlock the secrets to confidence on the water with Navi.training!
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Yacht Rope Handling: Winches and Blocks for Beginners
Intimidated by the abundance of ropes on a yacht? Don't back down! This article is your friendly guide to the world of yacht rigging. We'll break down, step-by-step, how yacht rope handling, using winches and blocks, becomes simple and understandable. Learn the basics of sail trim, master marine knots, and critical safety rules. Discover confidence and freedom on the water by becoming a full-fledged crew member. Recharge and get an incredible burst of energy by mastering essential yachting skills. Find out why it's not as daunting as it seems at first glance!
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The Compass on a Sailboat: How to Use a Marine Compass and Why Sailors Need It
Think the compass on a sailboat is outdated in the GPS era? Not at all! The marine compass is fundamental for safety. Understand how a marine compass differs from a hiking compass, how to read its language (degrees, points), and why you must account for magnetic variation and compass deviation. Learn how to take a bearing for navigation and how the compass helps in bad weather and at night. This article will reveal the secrets of the compass on a sailboat and show why knowing how to use it is key to confident sailing and safety.
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Yacht Etiquette: Rules of Good Manners for Guests and Crew
Afraid of feeling awkward on a yacht or unsure about yacht rules? Does yacht etiquette seem complicated and only for the elite? Uncertainty can spoil all the fun! Yet, yacht etiquette isn't just about formalities; it's the foundation for sailboat safety and comfortable recreation for everyone. This article is your guide to the unwritten rules of good manners onboard, in marinas, and bays. Learn what to bring, how guests and skippers should behave, and why this knowledge will make you fit right into the maritime world. Dispel your fears and make your first sea adventure perfect!
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Essential Sailing Maneuvers for Beginners: Tacking and Gybing in Simple Terms
Does the dream of owning a sailboat seem distant? Are you intimidated by nautical terms and complex sailing maneuvers like tacking and gybing? Afraid you won't understand and won't learn to sail safely? Yet, these basic sailing maneuvers are the keys to freedom of movement under sail! Understanding their essence and learning to perform them is much simpler than it seems. Imagine confidently turning your sailboat against the wind or sailing downwind, enjoying every moment. This article is your first step! We will simply explain what tacking and gybing are, why they are needed, and how to master them as part of learning to sail for beginners. Discover how to turn fear into confidence and start your journey to the helm.
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