SSCA and Ladybug Event Brings Cruisers Together in St. Augustine
by Seven Seas Cruising Association 30 Mar 16:55 UTC
March 6–8, 2026
St. Augustine Sailing's Ladybug Event © Joan Walker
The Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA), in partnership with St. Augustine Sailing's Ladybug Event, recently hosted a successful gathering combining the SSCA Conference with the Ladybug Regatta.
Cruisers from across the sailing community came together for several days of seminars, dockside discussions, hands-on workshops aboard boats, and on-the-water activities designed to support both experienced voyagers and those preparing for their first cruising adventures.
The event highlighted SSCA's mission of connecting cruisers through shared knowledge and practical experience. Educational sessions covered topics including weather analysis, marine communications, cruising preparation, vessel systems, and the emerging role of artificial intelligence tools in supporting modern cruising.
Featured presenters included marine weather expert Chris Parker of Marine Weather Center, Captain Bob Sherer of ICW Cruising Guides and Waterway Guide Media and Jib Davidson covering topics of interest weather, routes charts rules and ways to cruise the ICW. Kerry Gonzales, AMG Insurance International, on today's best ways to ensure you are safely covered by your policies. Frank Smith presented on the use of VHF radio systems with Digital Select Calling and communications safety, and how to use these tools successfully. Joan Conover discussing cruiser communications and AI-assisted voyage management tools. A highlight was Lisa McDonald of PredictWind speaking on offshore weather strategy and ocean sailing preparation.
In addition to classroom seminars, participants took part in dockside and onboard workshops during the St. Augustine boat show, where Jeanneau sailing vessels provided a platform for practical demonstrations and cruiser discussions.
A highlight of the weekend was the Ladybug Regatta, which brought cruisers together for a friendly on-the-water event. Among the finishers, PredictWind Captain Lisa McDonald sailing Zephyr crossed the finish line ahead of the fleet.
Professional photography throughout the event was provided by Joan Walker, whose images captured the energy of the seminars, waterfront discussions, and sailing action that defined the gathering.
Events like this demonstrate the continuing role of SSCA in helping sailors prepare for cruising, build community connections, and share the real-world knowledge that makes extended voyaging safer and more accessible.
For more information about SSCA programs and cruising resources, visit www.ssca.org.