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Betsy Armstrong, who took a five day ASA104 Intermediate Coastal Cruising course with Captain Don Boccuti in September 2011, sent the following letter: 

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Hi Rita,

Just a quick note to let you know that the ASA 104 course was PERFECT for me! Don couldn't have fit the bill any better for teaching the sailing and knowledge portions. We had the greatest weather, from delightful cruising days to a nighttime gale, and big winds and waves near the end of the course. I've never met a man so patient, laid back, and unflappable. All three of us learned so much from him. When I have a little more time (in about two weeks) I hope to get back to you with more details and pictures (which shows you how confident I was that I could even take them, as relaxed as I was). Thanks for talking with me about the appropriate level of the course I needed. Next up, the home study ASA 105, which I'd like to take this winter... Betsy

Later, Betsy added:

The starter button for the engine failed on the last day as we prepared for what looked like a vicious storm but the experience turned positive when Don "hotwired" the starter and we outran the anticipated big wind. I learned so much about engines in this course anyway, but to know that trick (he used a pliers or wrench, I believe) is especially interesting. 

Don is probably the most patient man I've ever met in my life! He never raised his voice even as I thought for sure our docking would result in a piling mishap, and his excellent directions and tips for docking were an added bonus to the course. We were blessed with a variety of weather and Don's experience and teaching methods in handling the various types of sailing conditions were invaluable.

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