What to say...

[sailingfool]

I recently learned that a 20 year-old neighbor's kid has signed on to join a delivery crew moving a 50s foot sailboat from the Leeward Islands to the South Pacific, one of four on board. His sailing experience to date has been limited to three of four fair weather daysails on my 36 footer. My wife says to keep out of it, what do you think?

[Fstbttms]

Originally Posted by sailingfool

I recently learned that a 20 year-old neighbor's kid has signed on to join a delivery crew moving a 50s foot sailboat from the Leeward Islands to the South Pacific, one of four on board. His sailing experience to date has been limited to three of four fair weather daysails on my 36 footer. My wife says to keep out of it, what do you think?

I think your wife is right.

[RickLaPaz]

Depends on who and what the make up is of the other three. And the boat as well.........

[TSteele65]

Originally Posted by Fstbttms

I think your wife is right.

Agreed. Adventures like this rarely come along, and inserting yourself in the process can only go badly.

[k1vsk]

Look at all the people who had virtually no experience and successfully circumnavigated only to write books about their wonderful adventure and learning experiences. Sounds like a great plan to me.

[Valiente]

Back off, except to offer some advice on gear, tactics and prep.

Maybe you could give him your copy of "The Annapolis Book of Seamanship", if, you know, you're "finished" with it.

[bestfriend]

I understand your concern, but he is not your son. Help him have what could be the best experience of his life.

[RickLaPaz]

Originally Posted by bestfriend

I understand your concern, but he is not your son. Help him have what could be the best experience of his life.

Agree completely. If oppurtunities like these became available to more young kids these days, my hope for the future of humanity would be greatly increased.........

[JohnRPollard]

My first night at sea was spent in a Force8/9 Mediterranean gale, at the same age. It was the beginning of one of my life's grand adventures. Prior to that, I'd had little over a week's experience coastal sailing (on the same 38 foot boat). To me, this sounds like the best thing that could happen to your neighbor's kid. Buy him a nice inflatable safety harness with tether as a parting gift, and wish him godspeed.

[blt2ski]

I wish I would have been given an opportunity at 20 to do such a thing! As mentioned, buy him a good PFD, tether etc, and let him enjoy himself.

While not equal, a few weeks ago, spouse and my 21 yr old twins and 19 yr old daughter had not taken the boat out by themselves with out me. I said good ridence, at the dock for a race, they finished, last, but all came back with smiles etc. a few good stories...........

As long as he comes back in one piece.....hope he has fun, grows and learns!

marty