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Old 02-05-2007, 04:21 AM   #1
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Default HELP: SAILING LESSONS???

Hi Everyone,

I was wondering if any of you know if there are any places out there that offer free sailing lessons or certification? I know that I've always wanted to learn how to sail and possibly race one day. Because of finances and just getting out of college, I am still working on paying off student loans. If anyone out there knows where I can start that would be great!

Thank you!
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Old 02-05-2007, 06:48 AM   #2
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Where are you based ??
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Old 02-05-2007, 06:51 AM   #3
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Hi Catherine,

I am located in Los Angeles.
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Old 02-05-2007, 07:11 AM   #4
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I don't know of a school or group that offers free lessons, but I do know that a lot of racers--local club racers on the East Coast at least--are always looking for willing hands, and I can't think of a better way to learn the ropes as long as you're agile, a good listener, and eager. My cousin has welcomed countless young people who went on to become part of his crew and then to own their own boats. And, let me tell you, if you could find someone like him to teach you, you'd be fortunate. He's a marvel.

Also, at the docks a lot of single handers--daysailers--would love to have someone on board to play with them. Put your name up on club or dock bulletin boards, chat up various sailors if you see them messing about on board. If you're willing to help them do a little boat work, you might be able to parlay that into a lesson or two.

You don't have to have formal lessons from a school. I've been sailing all my life, and my best teachers were my aunt and the racing (3rd) cousin.

Blessings,

Normandie
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Old 02-05-2007, 05:09 PM   #5
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like Sea mentioned...go crew on racing yachts. You can easily get in contact through the local yacht clubs. That's the easiest. Next best is posting a small message in local marina's "Wanting to crew for experience"... name and phone. Next thing is stop by the marina office and let them know you are wanting to sail...see if they can hook you up.

I don't know if you are male or female but there are female only clubs that crew.

If you are at the marina, and you see a single hander entering port, stop and talk to them and let them know you are wanting to sail. It's very easy to get started.
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Old 02-05-2007, 10:49 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by name='Converted Post'
Originally posted by eheart

Hi Catherine,

I am located in Los Angeles.
Hi,

I am in France,

I was going to suggest that you get on to a boat and do a short passage or go to a club and crew a racing yacht.

You learn very fast on a racing yacht, you dont necessarily learn good sailing but you do learn sail handling and setting.
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Old 02-06-2007, 12:53 AM   #7
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Hi and welcome,

I'd back up what all the other suggest - get along to a local yacht club and let them know you are keen to learn and prepared to take a crew spot on a race boat - however small the boat might be.

Most new sailors do assume you have to be experienced to get such spots but the reality is different.

Most skippers do struggle to get sufficient committed crew that will be there each weekend.

Good luck.

Also suggest you visit your local library and start reading. Lots of good book available but no need to buy them. The more you study the more you'll learn.

Enjoy

JOHN
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Old 02-06-2007, 11:34 AM   #8
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Thank you everyone! I greatly appreciate all the assistance. I will check out our local Marina. Thank you again for all your help!
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