Live, on-screen presentations with visual aids provide an opportunity for participants to interact with the instructor and each other in a virtual classroom. Sessions typically run from 60 to 90 minutes, and only require a computer with speakers, web browser and a reasonable-speed internet connection.

This year's topics include introductions to several favourite Great Lakes cruising areas, navigation skills, negotiating locks, boat and engine maintenance, women's forum, energy management, fibreglass repair basics, weather, writing for the boating market, the Trent-Severn waterway, provisioning, cruising with pets, marine photography, and more. For further information and a list of subjects and instructors, go to www.GLCCSchool.com.

Enthusiastic feedback from 2010-11 students endorses the content, effectiveness of online learning, instructor qualifications, ease of interaction and low cost. There are no tests.

If you register and miss a live presentation, you can access a recording of your webinar for six weeks. Within that period, you can also still register and view the recording.

The GLCCSchool is sponsored by the Great Lakes Cruising Club (www.glcclub.com), a non-profit organization founded in 1934, with a membership exceeding 2500 U. S. and Canadian boaters. Registration costs are low because of volunteer involvement and the school's goal of reaching as many Great Lakes cruising boaters as possible.

For details and registration, go to www.GLCCSchool.com and click on "Create an Account." Once you are signed up, you will periodically receive e-mail notices as new webinars are scheduled.