[artbyjody]

I recommend having the "Chapman Piloting & Seamanship book, above any. It is the bible so to say...

I taught myself how to sail when I bought my Catalina 27. My approach was learning the systems so that I could answer basic "my life is threatened" questions such as - flooding, where are the cut-off valves for the seacocks all at, fire - where are the extinguishers and other safety issues. Followed by understanding the maintenance required..

Then came the docking and un-docking and getting to know the boat under power...

Then came learning how to sail....

It can be done - plenty of books out there and if you are willing to make friends with other sailors - its ok to ask them - "hey could you come along and show me a few things" or ask to sail with them and supplement and question your knowledge based on what you read and other experiences...

Know your boat, do not be afraid of making a mistake (you'll panic at times, and get it all wrong, but you'd do that anyway with a new to you boat)..- and most of all enjoy the experience...