I've always thought a great vacation idea would be to book a trip with Jeff. He is a member here screen name Arctic Traveler though I haven't seen him around the forum much the last couple of years. A week with him should tune you up just fine and also provide memories of a lifetime in a beautiful cruising ground. You'll certainly come away with the skills and confidence to have a respectable shot at shrinking your learning curve.
http://www.arctictraveller.com