New sailor

[Sagres]

Hi everyone, up until 2 weeks ago, I had never stepped foot onto a sail boat. Today, I am a new US Sailing certified sailor. However, the credentials doesn't mean much to me as I am not completely confident on my skills. Yes, I know the basics but there's so much more to learn on this way of life than a 24 hours course can cover. To you all old salts, what advice do you give to a newbie like me. What is the best way to build the skills and confidence to one day, own my own boat and take weekend trips along the coast. I plan on joinning a boat club next spring where I can take Rhodes 19 and Sonars out but I don't want to be limited to a confined space within the harbor where there's so much ocean outside the confined limits.

Anyway, great posts on here and any advice would be very much appreciated.

Cheers

[cb32863]

Sagres, welcome to Sailnet and the "asylum" of sailing. This is my experience, I got certified through ASA Basic Keelboat, took a few other classes on navigation and what not. I have been in a boat club for 2 seasons now that had a few different boats. I am also landlocked so I sail on a lake. Use the boat club to gain experience and confidence. More than one person has said that learning on smaller boats will make you a better sailor. Also, check in to any racing programs that are in the area, not my thing but, racing will teach you many things very quickly.

You will get "out there" soon enough, just have a little patience and build your skills. Eventually you will have your own boat and be off the coast. Some would say just do it, but, use the boat club to your advantage. No slip fees, no maintenance costs, etc...

Good luck and again, welcome.

[PCP]

Sagres wellcome, a special one considering your nice avatar: Girls and Beer goes well with boats, specially if it is a Portuguese beer

Regards

Paulo

[SHNOOL]

+1 CB sage advice.

[Sagres]

PCP, nice to know someone knows the difference between the mother ship and our smooth refreshing beer.

Glad to hear from you.