Lessons for a newbie

[leilaanne]

Hello everyone, I am new to the forum and would like to get some expert advice on sailing lessons (based on experience and knowledge) from those who know. I currently have this topic posted on my own website and am really looking for experienced advice. All advice is appreciated, but I am most looking for those who have already been through the beginning stages of sailing and those who know what safety hazards exist based on experience. I figured that the sailing forums were the place to post the question. Thanks.

[rockDAWG]

Welcome to Sailnet

You can learn sailing in many ways, but I prefer learning from proper instructional courses. Find yourself a good sailing school either uses ASA or US training method. Once you get through the beginner courses, go sailing and read as many books as you can from technical to sailing adventure story books Here on this forum, there are many good and knowledgeable captains. Read their posts and learn from there. I have learned a lot here.

Good luck.

[cb32863]

I did what rockDAWG says in his post and I joined the boat club that was offered through my school so I didn't need to purchase a boat right away. Worked out great for me as I am close to the lake I sail on. Going to get my ASA 103/104 at the end of the month in the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior. Do as suggested, take your ASA 101 and read as much as you can and get out and sail. See if you can help crew some races if you don't have access to a boat. Welcome to Sailinet and sailing!

rockDAWG: What is ASA 102?

[imagine2frolic]

Many people teach themselves, and most succeed. Although their road is usually a slower one. Some get into bad habits without even knowing it. It's much safer, and much quicker to use a structured course. Just the first ASA101 can open a safe door for you.

I sailed on other peoples boats, and finally came to the conclusion I wanted to learn. I was just a grunt, and took instructions without knowing why it was done.

I lived in S.F. Ca. when I took my lessons. They were 101,102, and coastal. In 3 months I had my own 30 ftr. In another 15 months later I was singlehanding my way to Mexico. BEST WISHES if it is your desire to learn........i2f

[cwyckham]

Where are you? All posts so far apply to Americans as far as specific agencies and courses. General philosophy will be the same anywhere, though. I'd also highly recommend combining a beginner's course with lots of reading, then go and practice lots before doing your next course.

[sailingdog]

I'd point out that outside of the USA, the RYA type courses are well regarded. If you're in the USA, the ASA courses may make more sense, since their curriculum and focus is more on cruising than racing. In any case, getting at least a basic learn to sail course under your belt and getting a good book, like Dave Seidman's The COmplete Sailor, are a good start.

[dacap06]

I would also like to point out that in Canada, the well-regarded CYA teaches very similar courses to the ASA courses. In fact, each will give credit for the other's courses. I took the CYA courses up through basic coastal cruising back in the '80s.

[rockDAWG]

Originally Posted by cb32863

rockDAWG: What is ASA 102?

Oh Yeah.... I forgot. That was a special one on one training session after the class at her apartment.