Orientation and networking

[mariano]

Hello people,

I joined a while ago while living in KY and now I'm relocated in MI. I am seriously considering sailing here but I'm a bit lost on where to start. The information around here has been extremely helpful, but would like to have some 'high level' feedback and would appreciate if you could give me some pointers, or even contacts to talk to/network:

A bit of background and where I want to go. I have sailed with a 21' on semi-protected coastal waters in South America for 2yrs, got my coastal navigation certification down there. I am now thinking of going a bit larger now (Pearson 31'? J/35?) on Lake Erie, looking for a cruiser/racing, might try racing for fun but definitely will not get into it seriously... just like sailing in general and take the lady with me.

One question I have is who should I start talking to get a bit more involved in it and get a feel of costs, requirements, lessons, experiences, etc? Yacht clubs? Boat dealers? Any that you know that you can recommend in the Detroit, MI area?

Another question is regarding my experience. I have learned to sail, but it has been too long ago, in a different language (spanish) on waters that might be completely different to the ones in Lake Erie. I am leaning towards getting lessons again and training, do you think it is worth it? At a bare minimum I need to re-learn all the nautical terms in english, but wouldn't mind a refresher on man-overboard procedures and all that good stuff.

If you live in the southeastern part of MI and have any contacts or places that you could recommend so I can start talking about this, I would appreciate it.

Thanks!
Mariano

[JohnRPollard]

Hi Mariano,

You might consider a quick refresher course, but I think you'd be fine if you take it slow and give yourself a little time for it all to come back. You're definitely not a beginner -- just "rusty" is all. And you're obviously highly proficient if not fluent in english -- you should be able to learn the english terminology from books.

As far as getting a little orientation in your new area, I think the Yacht/Sailing Clubs would be a good place to start. You could volunteer to crew for a season - that would help you brush up on skills and terminology too.

Best of luck to you.