Sailing Classes
Sailing classes are the ideal way to get started learning how to sail if you do not have any previous experience. Not many of us are fortunate enough to know an expert sailor who would be willing to teach us everything we need to know about the sport, so unless you have the acquaintance of a salty old seafaring captain, sailing classes are the only real option.
If you have no prior experience with sailing you would do well to start off with a 3-day basic sailing class. This is by far the most common form of instruction around and many establishments offer this type of instruction for both beginners and those who have taken sailing classes before, but wish to brush up on their skills.
If you have set your sights on sailing larger boats and intend to later go on to cruising, a longer sailing class that combines the basic skills with coastal cruising options should be more to your advantage.
Most classes will typically accommodate anywhere from 3 to 10 students at a time, although some establishments will offer one on one sessions. If privacy is an important consideration for you, you may also check out the “couples only” sailing classes that some sailing schools offer.
Most sailing classes that offer lessons for beginners will naturally limit the sessions to days when the weather is favorable. However there are some that would proceed with the classes even if there is a slight chance of rain or gusty winds. The benefit of doing so is that this will train you to handle all types of weather conditions when you eventually go out on your own. A reputable sailing school will have expert instructors on board who know how to “read” the weather, and they will know if it is too dangerous to go out, so you should be fine unless the weather is particularly unfavorable.
Speaking of sailing instructors, before you sign up with any sailing classes, find out of the instructors that they have in their staff are properly certified to give classes on sailing. This way you can be sure that you not only get the best possible training from your sailing classes, but that all possible safety measures are implemented. There are admittedly some risks involved in sailing but if you keep this simple tip in mind, you can minimize the risks and enjoy the many considerable rewards that sailing can offer.
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