Held at the Corinthian Yacht Club in Marblehead, MA

MARBLEHEAD, MA, April 15, 2008 – Whether one is new to sailing or looking to sharpen racing starts or navigation skills, the seventh annual Women's Sailing Conference has something for everyone as the event returns to Corinthian Yacht Club in scenic Marblehead, MA, on Saturday, June 7.

The all-day workshops specifically for women are sponsored by BoatUS and organized by the National Women's Sailing Association. Topics include docking techniques, spinnakers, diesel engines, suddenly single-handed, using spring lines, safety gear, planning for a coastal cruise as well as recovering crew overboard, a race committee primer and more.

The conference includes continental breakfast, box lunch, numerous handouts, and a gala dinner with a guest speaker and raffle prizes. This year's speaker is Maureen “Moe” Roddy a world-class sailor, mother and cardiac surgical nurse who launched the Red Dress Racing Campaign to raise awareness about women’s cardiac disease and inspire women to take control of their health. Roddy and her racing partner were the first all-women’s team to complete the Bermuda One Two, a grueling race in which Roddy raced solo from Newport to Bermuda, then back to Newport with her crew. Moe campaigns her boat under the Red Dress banner.

"For women new to boating this is a fun, relaxed training opportunity," said Elaine Dickinson, who heads the women’s outreach effort for BoatUS. “Even seasoned sailors learn something new or work on a special skill, and have a great time too. Our host, the Corinthian Yacht Club, let the women take over the club for the day and everything’s first class.”

The cost is $115 for NWSA members and $150 for non-members.  The event is limited to 150, and usually sells out. For details or to register go to WomenSailing.org or call 866-631-6972.

BoatUS also sponsors two West Coast women’s sailing seminars, the BoatUS Santa Maria Cup, and offers an informational women's boating Web site at BoatUS.com/women

BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 650,000 members with a wide array of consumer services including a group-rate marine insurance program; the largest fleet of more than 500 towing assistance vessels; discounts on fuel, slips, and repairs at over 870 Cooperating Marinas; boat financing; and a subscription to BoatUS Magazine. For membership information visit BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.