Opportunity Needed in Toronto/Lake Simcoe Area

prospector · #1 (**permalink**) 07-12-2006

This may sound strange, but I am hoping someone will give my GF and I a chance to learn a wee bit about sailing. This would be a transition for us from our current passtime of wilderness canoeing.

In our 4 years together we have canoed many places, and shared many adventures. Sadly she recently hurt her knee and back, and is no longer able to do the requisite hiking, portaging, etc. that goes along with wilderness canoeing.

We are still an active couple though (late 20's, early 30's), and she enjoys rollerblading and walking, while I go paddle to far off places on my own. I am thinking that sailing might be a way for us to get out on the water and enjoy some time together. Before I dive in and make an investment in a boat though, I want to be sure she can haul in the lines, and that we can manage a boat together.

My sailing experience is limited to short sails in Petrels and Sunfish with a sea cadet corps about 20 years ago, and one glorious 4 day trip on Canada's West coast in a whaler (I still remember "chugging the lug"). Honestly there is little I still remember of the points of sail etc. though my rope work is adequate. I have found mention of books here that I will be sure to find and read. Her sailing experience is limited to watching boats sail by from shore.

We both work in engineering, and our "family time" is limited. Please let us know if you have an opportunity for us to crew for you, or if you'd be able to spend a day on the water with us.

Many thanks in advance,
Chris

PBzeer · #2 (**permalink**) 07-12-2006

Check around the yacht clubs in your area for crewing opportunities. I think you'll have your best luck on Erie or Ontario, rather than Simcoe. If you check out this website http://sailquest.com/market/ you'll see in the list of brokers, also Yacht clubs in your area. You might check their websites for crewing opportunities.

Regards,

prospector · #3 (**permalink**) 07-16-2006

Thanks for your reply.

I took my GF and paid a visit to Sail Georgina (www.sailgeorgina.com) which is the local Yacht club. Looks like lots of folks there are looking for crew, and they have a regular race series on the Lake here.

I am told this is an excellent learning lake since it is large enough to get some decent wind, but home is never far if you get in trouble. In any case, our adventure begins...