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I'm very new to sailing, so take what I say with a big grain of salt.
I don't know much (if at all) about learning how to sail, but I do know a lot about motorcycles, and maybe the psychology of learning how to operate any moving object is similar enough for comparison.
With motorcycles, the statistically most dangerous rider is one who was taught to ride by a friend/family member. The safest - one who takes a professional course. Self-taught riders are even safer than friend/family taught.
That part is fact. Here's my theory and how it may relate to sailing:
When you are new to learning something, you have no real way to judge good vs. bad information. If someone you think has "experience" you are likely to believe whatever they teach you. If they are wrong, you will end up with a false sense of your own abilities and unknowingly take risks you are not prepared for. Self-teaching at least eliminates the false sense of security and, while a slow way to learn, you will likely proceed with due caution.
So, take it for what its worth (nothing, you read it for free), read as much as you can and spend the money on professional lessons. If you really like it and get into sailing, the amount you spent on lessons will pale compared to all the other money you end up spending.
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