What skills do I needto learn

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by lostappilation

I know nothing about sailing. I don't even know what I need to know. What skills does a sailor need to learn? How do the various skills rate in terms of immportance? What is the best way to learn them?

The skills are too numerous to list here. The Canadian Yachting Association standards might be a good place get an impression of what you are in for.

The best way is to get some hands-on instruction for an reputable school / instructor. Then practice, practice, practice; especially before attempting the next level.

Jack

[CBinRI]

Go to a library and find a simple book. Do NOT start off by buying a boat. Take some lessons on a dinghy. (A dinghy is simply a small sailboat.) Look in the phone book for local sailing schools and yacht clubs. The advantage of learning on a dinghy is they are easier to handle but they also give such immediate and good feedback that you will learn much faster than you would on a bigger boat. Buy a boat only if you catch the bug. I expect you will but not everybody does.

It is not nearly as daunting as it seems. Get out on the water!