I've been on or near the water all my life. I know no other way. I never rented a house or an apartment my tire life. I've had five different camper trailers. At too many boats to count. But I'm presently living on my third sailboat. My dockfee is a 150 a month. With electricity and water. There's simply no cheaper way to live here in America. And the wind is free. It may not cooperate all the time. But it's definitely free. And my biggest thrill is learning people to sail. You could see it in their eyes. When I raise the sails and they become full and the magic takes over. It really does put people in aw.
It’s true, I am new to sailing, been out on my sunfish 3 times now and I remember when the wind first caught the sail and I started moving across the lake I was like wow this is so cool.
One strategy is to take a short vacation to Panama City and hang around some marinas. You will eventually find a screaming deal or even a free boat. So many people set out to cross the Pacific then turn around and come back to Panama City and abort the whole thing, give away and sell their gear and go home. Its sad but I know several people who acquired their boat down there.
Some very good advice. Here's what I learned: Remember that even a nicely-sorted boat requires many hours of maintenance. Plus lots of money. Don't worry if your sails are stuffed - if it's your first boat, you'll stuff them anyway. An outboard auxiliary makes the yacht easier to manoeuvre than an inboard diesel - it's simpler to service also. The best training you'll get is by serving as crew on a racing yacht in local races (nothing serious) for a season. You'll learn from other people and they can give you advice on boat selection and handling, and instruction on yelling at people. A yacht is slow, but when you have her trimmed sweetly and getting the most of the wind, you're the one who did that. It's a great feeling.
Just bought a Lancer 36! I grew up sailing small boats on lakes so U know how to sail already, but now I live in Southern California on the coast and am ready for a big boat! Wish me luck, thanks for the video!
My first boat is a 26 ft. I paid 5k for it and its pretty nice and everything works its from tge early 80s. I knew nothing about sailing and am still learning but i love it
I’m thinking about doing the same thing. There’s a 27 ft hunter in my area and I’m in the process of buying it, but I have no idea how to sail any pointers or tips
@@Deshawn1313 no I have not crossed the ocean I plan to I have learned a lot though and sailed from Seattle down to two places in California and back to Seattle. I plan to go from Seattle to California then to Hawaii next year. I’m still building confidence but I feel pretty good about it now and have had no major issues. It took me a bit to outfit the boat to be safe and ready. So far so good, have a great day and stay safe!!!
@@matthewadkins7973 I was in the same position I had never done it I would just say take you’re time and set up the boat and get someone who knows what’s up and willing to help your or if you have to pay someone to do it. I sat and studied everything I could about my boat and what other people said about them. I owned it for 11 months and sailed around Seattle but I have gone to California from Seattle and back by myself and it went fine. Just be patient and stay safe!!!
Learned to sail: Dad had a boat, learned the basics with him. Raced 10 years. Now fun race on friends boat and bought a dinghy to really learn. One point to make: learn the terms and language. While you dont need to know what hank does to sail, it sure helps if you sail on a boat with some one who does. I sailed with an old coast gaurd gentleman, and had to relearn some terms fast. Great informative vid.
100% agree. There is a German proverb that says: "There is magic in every beginning". That's exactly how it is with sailing.The greatest adventures are sometimes not that great. But they are new experiences and at the end of the day you will look back proud of what you have accomplished and what you have defeated. I sailed on 17 feet fearfully for the first time on the Baltic Sea. Today, on 32 feet, it is (a nice) normality. So: don't be afraid of starting sailing. As long as you don't overestimate yourself, it's just a dream. Especially at the beginning.
Growing up my grandparents had a cottage up on lake Erie in canada. My dad when I was maybe 9 or 10 bout a sunfish and would take me sailing on it. I didnt like the way the boat healed up on plane at first, but a few years later I learned to like it. When I was 13 my dad got me sailing lessons and gave me that sunfish and I'd spend hours on that lake pushing me and that boat to its limits. Now as an adult I'm ready to buy a bigger boat and hopefully sail around the world one day.
I am the new proud owner of a Laguna Windrose from 1974. She is an 18 foot trailable sailboat. Thank you for helping me choose the right 1st sailboat. You videos and advice have been an inspiration. Very soon I will start my adventures in the West coast of Florida. Best of Wishes & Happy Sailing. Godspeed
Thanks! That should be a fun boat! I've been thinking of going smaller, around that size, something to take out that's simple and that I can sail, not just ride along in as it sails itself.
Sailed at military school in six the grade, and I am taking a keel boat sailing class at 57 years old. So excited and I hope my wife will enjoy it with me eventually!
Nice vid, and I did all the mistakes you did, :O). I now own a 28' that I like to push it to her limits, she loves that :O) An old sea dog asked me once "How did you learn to sail?" and I reply "On a Laser 14'". He looked at me and says "Best school!" Cheers from Canada
NIce vid and some great tips. I picked up a Cape Dory Typhoon (weekender model) a couple of years ago. It's a great sturdy day sailer that in my opinion is the best sailboat to learn on. The accommodations aren't much to write home about but she has a stiff full keel and handles weather and chop very nice for a small 18.5 foot boat. I did a lot of work mainly undoing some poor shoddy work that was done by previous owners. And that is something to watch out for. Many boat owners are DIY types, but they cut a lot of corners and often end up leaving future owners to fix their mistakes. That is something to watch to for when buying a used boat - particularly one that is a bit older (mine is 1973). I learned a lot about boat repair and maintenance as well as sailing on my Typhoon.
Good Advice... people also TRY to hide issues. The seller of my boat had to know it was leaking, but he told me it was because he washed it the day prior. I'm thinking the best way to buy a old sailboat is to buy it from somebody who has owned it and uses it and clearly respects it and has worked to maintain and fix it up along the way. This will allow for many hours of sailing instead of working on it or worrying about what's wrong with it. I also am reading a new book "stress free sailing" that says to become good at sailing before you take your loved on out on it.... because otherwise they may say things like, "I'll never step foot on that boat again", which isn't what you want!
I got started when I was like 6 on my grandpa's home built sailboat. I'm now 32 and at a point where it's in my budget to afford one. Thanks for the vid.
Just starting now. A very dear friend of the family is a master sailor having sailed around the world several times. He is teaching me how. We went out on a 10' last week for the first time and I can't wait to go again.
I got started at summer camp in the 80's! It's always something i remember loving and would like to get back into. Small boat just cruising on the lake.
I was kid watching the SORC races starting out of Tampa Bay and was fascinated by those billowing spinnakers and organized chaos that is the starting line. Later on as a teen, I was taught the basics in those small beloved "beer cooler" type boats in Mullet Key Bayou and then took some day sails and overnight trips on a friends 30 footer. I moved away from the coast but about 10 years ago I read a book about a sailboat with my niece and nephew and thought: "Why not?
Excellent video. My first boat was a 40 year old Cal 25. On the West coast there are lots of these and parts were easy to source. I sailed her up and down the West coast for nearly 3 years. Plenty of overnights and longer. I sailed from Redondo to Catalina many times, down to Baha, up to San Fransisco. Proper pocket cruiser. I leaned all the basic skills on her.
At 38yo I bought my first boat 1973 coronado 27 and sailed it on the Oregon coast. 15yrs later I have a 1997 Catlina 22 MKII and sail it on Grand Lake in Oklahoma. The Catalina 22 is a great little boat. I love it, I dont think I will ever need another boat.
My first real boat was a 33 ft. Bought it because I wanted to live aboard, and refit it prior to retirement. The boat is now being remitted, and I'm about 3 years from retirement and sailing away. But I started years ago on smaller boats. Crewing other boats and getting several ASA certification have buld confidence. Awesome video. Fair winds.
@@jeffhidalgo198 The 33 is big enough for one (I lived 2 years in it) but me and my wife, got back together, after the boat went on the hard for a refit, and now I wish I had a 38, or 40. It could work, just tight and tonnage is all on the liiw side. The refit includes bringing all the lines, including three reef lines, to the cockpit.
this series of getting you boat sail-able is awesome I have a westerly nomad that has done nothing, seen no-one on in the past 11 years and I decided to take it as a project and have no idea what I'm doing. 🤣
I bought my first sailboat about 3 months ago. I had wanted one for a long time but had never even been on a sailboat before. Originally, I wanted a decent sized boat 30ft or bigger but decided on an Aquarius 23 which is a trailer sailer and I'm very happy I did! With the keel and rudder up, it only drafts a little over a foot so it can go anywhere. I've still run aground in it and it's light enough to get out and push it free. I never feel unsafe in this boat and it's difficult to get into too much trouble. Having a forgiving boat for your first is very important. It's big enough to take a weekend trip and I don't have to pay marina fees because I keep it on the trailer at my house. Also, I can sail anywhere. If it wasn't on a trailer, the marina would always be my point of origin. On a trailer, I can explore a place 200 miles away if I want and come back the same day. My point of origin is whatever boat ramp I launch from.
I built a One Sheet Skiff into a mini-sailboat. I used Tyvek and carpet tape for the sails and cheap pine 1x2's and screws together for the mast. Yes, its only 8 feet long (I'm 210lbs) and yes I had to guess where to put the dagger board but hey it sailed really well with a main and a jib and you can throw it on top of your car and any small lake will do. Cost's less than $100 to make... My lasted for nearly 8 years and I only used steel and aluminum and painted it with Wal-Mart latex house paint.... I also took sailing classes in college - we had C-Larks for that..
My first sailboat was a 8' compressed styrofoam dinghy we had in the early 1960's. We lived on the Lafayette river in Norfolk, Va. It was so fun and the draft was next to nothing. It was a single sail with a removable center board. I do wish I could fine something today light and easy to tow.
Just what I needed to hear! Thank you! I was correct on almost all of my assumptions and you sound like the thoughts in my head. You nailed it when you started throwing the books on the table! Great video and I'm a new subscriber!
Not sailing yet. I’m from Hawaii but live in Sacramento California. My wife and I want to learn how to sail but we are doing a lot of research first. Your video was a big help.
Hey, your advice is spot on. Also enjoy the voice over instead of me face time. Ive been looking at boats for a while and Ive been wrestling the practicalities of a 22 ft boat, despite some tempting 26-28ft ones. All your reasons make perfect sense and have convinced me to narrow my focus to 22 ft max. Thanks!
Thanks! Check out the Catalina 25. It's not too big, but at least the cabin is big enough to be in. Still has an outboard, but probably a roller furling and some things that will make things a little better.
AWESOME! Thanks for the great continent. I have not started sailing yet. Just picked up a "freebie" that needs work...Heres to the Beginning of The Journey!
s/v Tikiti-boo, I have a similar story in that I have always been a power boater and still have my Montauk Whaler, I purchased a Kittiwake 23.10, 1977. It is in great condition with an engine and all the extras you could imagine. The owner was an old timer looking to depart sailing. Although it was already in Bristol condition, I spent additional time and money fitting it out even better. You are so accurate on the total cost to own with storage and mooring fees. I have learned so much by single handing this beautiful boat. I say, stay small and dream big.. Love your channel.
Be SURE to take a local class on rules of the road and other important aids to sailing. The US Coast Guard is a good source and there are others in town. A MUST!
I sailed my whole life until I got married. Been begging my husband for a boat for 25 years. I used to sail out of Miami. Many trips to Bimini, island hopping in the Bahamas, sailing Biscayne Bay every weekend for 30 years. Still in Florida (Clearwater), but I have only sailed in Massachusetts every summer (til this one) for the past 25 years. I want a boat NOW and I am doing all the reserarch so I can finally get my boat. Looking in the 24-30' range. Daysailing, overnighters, and maybe a big trip across the Gulf to New Orleans! I would love to island hop again, but there is no way my hubby could handle being on a small boat for more than a day or 2. And I prefer not to go solo. Kids are grown and in school/working so that leaves me to only go on short trips. Otherwise, he is gonna divorce me. On the other hand, being apart may keep us together lol!
You may be surprised. He might end up liking it! I out of the blue bought a Cat22 a couple of years ago. At first my wife was like "What?? I don't think I'll like this". Now my wife is all about it. I can't even manage to get to the boat solo.
He’s right: buy a small boat with a main sail and a jib and learn the principles of sailing first. I did it backwards: jumped onto a big boat and crewed on the Mackinac race just doing what I was told on one task. Picking up tidbits in between the yelling. That’s an inefficient way to learn. So then bought an old 14’ racing boat for $600 and started racing on an inland lake. Quickly learned how to trim the main and jib and tactics and balance. It’s much more fun when you know how it all works. And you don’t really need to own a big boat to sail a big boat. They’re always looking for crew.
Wow, that's great! What was the draft of that boat? I'll bet it's far busier out there compared to back then. Weekends get to be like a boat highway. The gulf seems calm compared to all the wake in the channel.
Adventures In Paradise Draft was inches with all the boards up, but the causeway drops off quick. I think there is a kayak/sailboat rental place there now. As far as traffic it was still crazy on the weekends. I still get out there to camp the spoil islands a few times a year, and usually do the Dunedin Triathlon and I think it’s been pretty steady, maybe more but I’m so used to it and always try to avoid the highest traffic areas
I was over at the Safety Harbor marina and noticed a lot of sailboats. I guess those people primarily sail in the bay. You have some marinas on your side too!
Pretty much all my life i've been a fan of sailboats. The only reason I haven't got into it till just recently is because I had 3 miss conceptions about it. 1: I thought sailing was 10x slower than it actually is. 2: I thought it was physically impossible to sail upwind. 3: I thought it was extremely expensive. Now here's how I got into it. TH-cam is what taught me what sailing is really like (plus I lucid dream alot so I was able to get an surprisingly accurate feel for what it was like), then I bought some freak hybrid between a laser, topper, and a sunfish mini for $200 which is a ton of fun to sail, then I gave my sister that boat and bought a 1968 lightning 19', which is also fun to sail, but I plan on selling it and using the money to get something with a cabin.
Thank you so much for your videos! I’m looking at purchasing my first sailboat, and your videos have made my decision educational and straightforward. I’m looking at a Catalina 30. It has A LOT of work to get it up to sailing condition, but I’m determined.
I'm from Pinellas and have considered either vanlife or saillife, with the latter sounding like the best option. Thanks for this video and resources, I learned a lot.
that is a nice little yacht you have. my first boats were always homebrew. i did have a sunfish, some kayaks with homebrew sailing rigs, and inflatable dinghies with same sailing rigs. i've sailed larger boats, such as a yankee 24, but never owned anything like that, till i got a fixer-upper venture last year.
My wife and decided we wanted to learn to sail this June. We found a place to take some lessons here in Colorado and. 1st. sail, middle of the lake, wind stops. 2nd sail, sail to middle of the lake, wind stops, 3rd sail drive 21/2 hours to lake, phone call canceled lesson. 4th lesson go out have wind nervous about the heeling. Dealing with the gusts and another sail boat down wind from us goes over and sinks. (messed with my head). Mean time we buy an old boat, try going out when we can. So far had to repair the mane sail, mane halyard, swing keel Assembly. Part of owning a boat. Not giving up. We keep working at it and making improvements. Enjoyed this vedeo because some one else was nervous also, not just me. helped a lot Thanks.
I can tell you we've had these days too. Too much wind and didn't sail and had some close calls and had no wind and just sat there bobbing around. It does get easier and more fun as you experience it and do it more, I'm finding.
i saw a 1967 Newport 16 with trailer for free on facebook, i procrastinated for a few days then contacted the person, i love just gliding along slowly with no pollution. also i raise the mast, rig it and install the sails and make sure everything is ready and properly working before i ever put it in the water.
My first sailboat (at the age of 12) was a galvanized wash/bath tub that I mounted a square sail using an old bed sheet and scrap lumber. We had a small lake behind our house. Using my mother's wash paddle, I would paddle the bathtub up wind, then raise the sail and using the paddle as a rudder, sail downwind. I would then drop sail, paddle up wind, and repeat. In my early twenties, I was in a book store and stumbled upon "This is Sailing" by Creagh-Osborne, a sailor and graphic illustrator. Awesome book!!! Highly, highly recommend it. I memorized the book. This was way before the internet/TH-cam. I then bought a small 10ft sloop with all the basic hardware and headed for the water and never had a problem. Started a weekend business renting sailboats (I was a chemist at the time) in order to pay for my first cabin sailboat, a 22ft Sunchaser (very similar to a 22ft Catalina). Also had an American 23 and an American 27 Motor Sailor. I once even crewed on a tall ship through the American Sail Training Association. That was an experience I will never forget. And it all started with a galvanized bathtub, an old bedsheet, some scrap lumber and a wash paddle.
I also started with a powerboat, but a friend of mine had built a 16 ft sail boat, I went sailing with him one day and absolutely feel in love with sailing, I've owned a couple of small sailboats since then
I start with Catalina 25 fin keel on salt water. I think 25 feet sailboat it's a minimum comfortable size with toilet sinks kitchen etc. Even 27 feet if you wanna stand up in cabin at all time.
Last time I sailed I was fifteen. Kids are raised and now they are doing there thing. Soon after samething happen my health went south. Forced in retirement. You know desablaty. Can't work and you get a check that no one can live on. So, I'm homeless. Kind of. I live in a friends garage. It will never be a home. I tried motor home. 7 miles to the gallon. Nope got read of that. So now I'm looking for a sail boat. Wish me luck. Doing nothing for three weeks sailing the ICW hanging out. I really like this one sail boat. 26 Dawson with aft cabin. I was thinking of using the aft cabin as a shop for a place to set up a sewing machine for sail repair and cushions. Of course some of my tools. Not the heavy one's. Wen I was loosing every thing I Kemp my tools.
@@that1chad703 it's just a dream. To get away. Now I'm fighting heart problems. Just had four stints put in. No sailing for me. I'll live with you doing the sailing and enjoying others living there dream.
Nice series of videos. Started in college on a Flying Scot then when to sailing school in Germany courtesy of the US Army. Sailed lasers and a variety of hobie cats. Back in the States I joined a local sailing club which is a great way to get experience racing and day sailing. Raced Thistles and Flying Scots. Then started crewing on a tall ship (Kalmar Nyckel). A great experience. Great learning for maintaining a wood boat lol. I have not been sailing much in the last few years but want to get back to it either buying or joining a sailing time share. Really like to get a trimaran (Corsair) for the speed and the ability to trailer but they are not cheap! First I will take a proper cruising course!
I learned how to sail at summer camp in the Adirondacks. First on a sunfish, then a laser. I moved up to skipper my friends dads ‘27 foot on the Hudson. When I moved to Washington state, I bought a 27’ Reinell. Needed much work and the moorage fees were killing me. I sold that and decided to try motor boats. Bought a 24’ Searay Sorento. Very nice boat, but my friends liked it more than I did because after a weekend of boating I’m the one left cleaning and maintaining it. Sold that too. Now in my old age, I build and sail rc sailboats. Lol. Turns out the best time I’ve had sailing was on that laser!
My first boat was and is the Albin Vega 27 .I did a ton of research b4 my purchase.my approach to everything in life is to dive in head first and to blazes with the consequences! I didn't want to mess around buying boat after boat and all the time that is wasted in the process, I wanted it all and I wanted it now!.I wanted a yacht that was easy to learn on yet still offered plenty of room to grow and at the same time the yacht had to be tough and durable ....durable enough to take us across oceans and I wanted all this at an affordable price(I paid $9000) .And if all that isn't enough she and I had to be ready for off shore sailing within 6 months.It was a steep and intense learning curve but like most things in life ,in my humble opinion , a little faith , and a little courage go a long way. Of course if "fear" is in your vocabulary I wouldn't recommend this approach,but it's a hell of a thrill! I honestly can't imagine ever having or needing another boat.The Albin Vega handles incredibly well through rough weather.My next trip is going to be from BC to Mexico but without entering US waters....can't wait.
Love this I'm new and got a 21' venture 79 in MN. No aft stay blew my mind. Just replaced the swing keel bolt and washers 38 bucks. Dry as a bone now. DMV isn't open I got no title and registration from 06😂 it's never enough.😘
I’m 39 and very close to retiring from the army infantry and it’s been a ride. For the last 16 years I’ve saved money with the idea of a sail boat when I get out and I’m close now
Hey, thanks so much, this was put together very well, learned what I needed to understand for a beginner. Nice pace on the tutorial. It's much more meaningful to have someone demonstrating and describing each move, thanks so much!
my brother and myself bought our first sailing boat, a 23ft. weve taught ourselves to sail and the one thing we quickly learnt was that u need power on a boat ,we had to get a outboard to help us navigate off the mooring without hitting the other boats around(don't try do that under sail in the beginning) we had a battery that we had to charge at home and lag onto the boat each time .that was such a mission and u cant really run a deck wash or lights etc. for long before its dead. the next boat we getting will have an inboard engine for sure, luckily we are mechanically minded otherwise it can become another troublesome area! my 2 cents worth
Solid advice. I would offer, however, that buying a boat that needs to be rehabbed is a great way to learn to sail. I bought a 1972 MacGregor Venture 2-24 in 2017 when I retired. I had taken adult sailing classes and had sailed on other people's boats, earlier. We had a chop down a mulberry tree that had grown up through the A-frame of the trailer to get it out of the previous owners' back yard where it had sat under a rotting tarp for 8 years. I sailed it for half a season on Lake Michigan last year, and a full season this year, but I'm still learning and making improvements. You're correct though. You won't save money. I paid $1,800 for my boat, motor, trailer and 4 sails. I'm put more than twice that into it, not counting labor. The advantage is, however, you'll know the boat inside out, have confidence in it, and this will help you once you get it on the water. I laughed when I saw you wrestling with your foresail that wasn't hanked on yet. My similar mistake was I forgot to tie stop knots in the jib sheets and had both of them flying out over the bow.
Nice Video. Refreshing change from all the "glossy" sailing videos... for me I am just getting started building my own sailboat, a Bruce Roberts 27 foot
@@AdventuresInParadise From several other builders I have talked too I should be able to get it done in a year (sail-able, Boats are never truly done are they?)... Being in Thailand and building on my own land that cost is alot less then North America... the Steel for the shell of the boat is only about $2,000 then tools and whatever I put in her.... I will be building my own mast since she will be Junk Rigged and also making my own sail so that also reduces the cost alot... looking about 10k done and can sail with the BASICS needed.... Also will be looking at Salvage parts or second hand for things I cannot make myself. Also will reduce the cost alot.
i learned to sail on a catalina 22 and always wished for a laser or dinghy to really get a feel for whats going on. I have a tricked out super snark now. it's a clunky tub but perfect for learning.thx for posting!
Great video! I dont have a sailboat nor do I know how to sail. But Ive always wanted to learn and buy a sailboat. Wheres a good place to take sailing lessons down there in Florida? Keep making awesome videos and thanks for inspiring thoose of us that dream to do what your doing. Thanks
Thanks! You'll find places online, just ask Google... and check out the Key Lime sailing club in the keys, where you get a sailboat with your stay. I think lessons also.
Good video !! Note I got started a few years ago I joined a boat club seaforth located in San Diego Ca after a year approximately my brother and I purchased a 27 ‘ Catalina this was a great first boat and it doubled as a condo on the water wow what fun we had. A few years ago we sold it. I’m now looking for a bit larger boat possibly a 30 ‘ note length is not as important as I would like a larger beam 10’ plus would be nice. Thank you happy sailing ⛵️
Thanks for the tips, I'll definitely do the checklist. I'm buying my first sailboat on Monday, it's a 17 foot long stortris that I'm paying 1000 dollars for.
oh wow, I am glad i found your video/s. I just had to pause and go to google maps because i didn't know you could right click and do the measurement calculator like this. I have been using websites to slowly calculate distances and they are never accurate. Thank You. lol. I am going to watch the rest of the video now.
Yes, very useful. Navionics is nice in that you can input the average speed of your boat and then it figures times, but the google maps is helpful for basic distances..
You’re going to be my first sailing channel sub. Sailing is my best opportunity to travel, live economically, and sustainably and I have a shot at making it work if I get get the right info. I got some great tips from watching this to move forward in my research. 👍🏼 keep ‘em coming‼️
I race sail on smaller boats mostly, the wind=length rule really doesn't apply there. For example I have sailed 420s in 35-40 knot winds without major problems (Make sure your crew is a big guy). The max power wind your boat can take depends on purely the design. Most recreational 20-24ft sailboats I find can take around 30knots but after that you just have to luff the sail a ton. I recommend picking out boats with experienced people who can give you an idea of how good a boat actually is and the battering it can take.
Been growing up with cabin cruisers, super boats and jetskis, but damn I want my first boat to be a sailboat! The fact that you can travel anywhere without thinking of fuel costs and without a noisy engine just seems like the ultimate freedom a person can have! Thinking about getting something like a 25 foot sailboat, and hopefully I can learn some sailing from someone I know while I save up for it! Eventually, when I have money for a longer journey (and some actual sailing experience) I want to sail around the coast of Norway and sail into some of the amazing fjords the west coast has to offer.
Go small go now. I have been canoeing and kayaking for all my life, but sailing was limited to a big schooner and dinguis. In spring 2020 I bought a 20 foot trailer sailer with a friend. Some small repairs and we were sailing. 19 days in the boat totally 2020 ans 21 days totally 2021. I knew the basics, but alot was learning by doing. Made many small misstakes, but only one large. While setting sail alone I blew over a rock under water. Managed to raise the keel and drive of with the outboard motor. When mooring in the evening I felt like the lousiest sailor ever to been on a boat. But the hull was fine. A repairable crack in the keel. This year I am going to get the halyards to the pit. So I don't have to be all the way to the mast raising and lowering the sails. The jib will get a pull down line, also operated from the pit. Sailing is the journey and an ongoing learning experience.
the "pull down line" is called a downhaul. i got in to shallow my first time and got my keel hung up on an underwater log. btw my draft is about 18 inches
@@jimsmith9819 English is my third language. My draft is about a meter with the keel down. Half a meter folded backwards. 20 cm with the keel lifted in the boat. But it is not possible to steer without some keel down.
Learned to sail DECADES ago on the Great Salt Laake (It actually had enough water in it then) I'd go out with several friends and we'd det the tiller for North, open a case of beer, and sail for a couple of hours. We'd then turn about, open another case, and ssil South back to the marina. Young an stupid. It was fun, though, and I haven't sailed since. Maybe next year (without the beer this time)
Sailed a ComPac 16 West Palm -Bimini Bahamas and back over a 2 week span early 2000s. Someone was watching over me for sure! Currently have a Precision-18 for short 2-3 day trips cruising the Lake Erie Islands. Planning to build a Wave Rover this winter 6.5m (22’) Oceanic Battle tank for a Atlantic circuit summer-fall 25’
Bought a sunfish last winter. patched it up, slapped some paint on it and have been out 3 times so far. I love it and would absolutely love to learn more on a bigger boat. Unfortunate side to the sunfish is tipping over is part of the experience and they are pretty hard for a novice like myself to control in stronger winds. Definitely looking to upgrade in the near future. My goal is to sail the Atlantic inner coastal from Maryland to Florida and back.
Dude, thank you so much for posting this! Our youngest will be going to college in Baltimore, so we’re officially going to be empty nesters and I am concerned my wife will start filling the void with more dogs….This is exactly what I am thinking Annapolis isn’t too far from Baltimore I am fairly handy just restored two houses during the pandemic and a Mercedes….well kinda)
We started with smaller dinghies after owning power boats as well, in fact still have them because they're fun and easy to set up for short sails and mucking around inshore with the kids. We pretty much have done exactly what you have as far as buying a smaller trailer 25ft boat to see how we like sailing the bigger boats, My dream and maybe not my wifes is to eventually get something bigger. be able to tiki tour around on more extended holidays. but I don't think I'll be wearing a Bikini any time soon :D :D Good video and great advice.
Good comment... you certainly need extended holidays to use the sailboats.... it takes a long time to go anywhere and a weekend just isn't enough. At least yours is on a trailer!
What a small world I'm thinking of living and sailing on a boat as an alternative living, there's a year round marina nearby that charges $500 a month to dock year round. Compare that to rents in the area starting at $1500. Anyway I saw a used Catalina 22 selling for $900 were I live. As you mentioned in the video the cheaper the boat the more work you must do..I'm considering on buying it your right it's a popular boat with lots of parts available.
i got started as 1 year old on a 8ft Swedish designed hurricane braker sorm regata race bolid. Did it a whole lot before I turned 6. It's been many decades now, am an old sea wulf
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
Knot Enough is now sold - see our video of our new boat!
Wow!nice content
"You can watch a million TH-cam videos but the first time you do something is still the first time" I love this, thank you!
lol I paused there too, universal truths
I've been on or near the water all my life. I know no other way. I never rented a house or an apartment my tire life. I've had five different camper trailers. At too many boats to count. But I'm presently living on my third sailboat. My dockfee is a 150 a month. With electricity and water. There's simply no cheaper way to live here in America. And the wind is free. It may not cooperate all the time. But it's definitely free. And my biggest thrill is learning people to sail. You could see it in their eyes. When I raise the sails and they become full and the magic takes over. It really does put people in aw.
You are very lucky indeed. It's my dream to live in a boat, free to go everywhere I want.
It’s true, I am new to sailing, been out on my sunfish 3 times now and I remember when the wind first caught the sail and I started moving across the lake I was like wow this is so cool.
Ty for your comment!
They let you live on it boat? Thought that was illegal farts
Where are you docked? $150/month is CHEAP!
I wish this guy can make videos like this about everything in life.
Hmmmm. your first girlfriend.... your first car.....
@@AdventuresInParadise "For your first girlfriend, read this book"
@@AdventuresInParadise Yes indeed, your first chicken phall, and the inevitable morning afterwards. That pain will be with me always.
I agree lol
One strategy is to take a short vacation to Panama City and hang around some marinas. You will eventually find a screaming deal or even a free boat. So many people set out to cross the Pacific then turn around and come back to Panama City and abort the whole thing, give away and sell their gear and go home. Its sad but I know several people who acquired their boat down there.
Some very good advice.
Here's what I learned:
Remember that even a nicely-sorted boat requires many hours of maintenance. Plus lots of money.
Don't worry if your sails are stuffed - if it's your first boat, you'll stuff them anyway.
An outboard auxiliary makes the yacht easier to manoeuvre than an inboard diesel - it's simpler to service also.
The best training you'll get is by serving as crew on a racing yacht in local races (nothing serious) for a season. You'll learn from other people and they can give you advice on boat selection and handling, and instruction on yelling at people.
A yacht is slow, but when you have her trimmed sweetly and getting the most of the wind, you're the one who did that. It's a great feeling.
What means 'sails are stuffed', please?
The smaller you get the stress goes down and the fun goes up!
100% that.
Thanks for not being a rambling stoner with no script. I’m 63. I want to be mobile(leave country) by January. I’m subscribed.
did you leave?
@@music-jj2pl
Not yet
It’s been 3 years… did you make it?
@@AdventuringJD yeah, what the hell is going down with you, sasilor?
@@AdventuringJD Wondering the same...
Just bought a Lancer 36! I grew up sailing small boats on lakes so U know how to sail already, but now I live in Southern California on the coast and am ready for a big boat! Wish me luck, thanks for the video!
My first boat is a 26 ft. I paid 5k for it and its pretty nice and everything works its from tge early 80s. I knew nothing about sailing and am still learning but i love it
Hi all this is my new channel about quitting the real world and Sailing around it
I’m thinking about doing the same thing. There’s a 27 ft hunter in my area and I’m in the process of buying it, but I have no idea how to sail any pointers or tips
did you sail across the ocean?
@@Deshawn1313 no I have not crossed the ocean I plan to I have learned a lot though and sailed from Seattle down to two places in California and back to Seattle. I plan to go from Seattle to California then to Hawaii next year. I’m still building confidence but I feel pretty good about it now and have had no major issues. It took me a bit to outfit the boat to be safe and ready. So far so good, have a great day and stay safe!!!
@@matthewadkins7973 I was in the same position I had never done it I would just say take you’re time and set up the boat and get someone who knows what’s up and willing to help your or if you have to pay someone to do it. I sat and studied everything I could about my boat and what other people said about them. I owned it for 11 months and sailed around Seattle but I have gone to California from Seattle and back by myself and it went fine. Just be patient and stay safe!!!
This is totally the video I was looking for. Well done. 👍
Thanks!
Setting up, taking down and caring for you sailboat are all the most excellent cross training exercises you can ask for!
Learned to sail: Dad had a boat, learned the basics with him. Raced 10 years. Now fun race on friends boat and bought a dinghy to really learn. One point to make: learn the terms and language. While you dont need to know what hank does to sail, it sure helps if you sail on a boat with some one who does. I sailed with an old coast gaurd gentleman, and had to relearn some terms fast. Great informative vid.
100% agree. There is a German proverb that says: "There is magic in every beginning". That's exactly how it is with sailing.The greatest adventures are sometimes not that great. But they are new experiences and at the end of the day you will look back proud of what you have accomplished and what you have defeated. I sailed on 17 feet fearfully for the first time on the Baltic Sea. Today, on 32 feet, it is (a nice) normality.
So: don't be afraid of starting sailing. As long as you don't overestimate yourself, it's just a dream. Especially at the beginning.
Growing up my grandparents had a cottage up on lake Erie in canada. My dad when I was maybe 9 or 10 bout a sunfish and would take me sailing on it. I didnt like the way the boat healed up on plane at first, but a few years later I learned to like it. When I was 13 my dad got me sailing lessons and gave me that sunfish and I'd spend hours on that lake pushing me and that boat to its limits. Now as an adult I'm ready to buy a bigger boat and hopefully sail around the world one day.
I am the new proud owner of a Laguna Windrose from 1974. She is an 18 foot trailable sailboat. Thank you for helping me choose the right 1st sailboat. You videos and advice have been an inspiration. Very soon I will start my adventures in the West coast of Florida. Best of Wishes & Happy Sailing. Godspeed
Thanks! That should be a fun boat! I've been thinking of going smaller, around that size, something to take out that's simple and that I can sail, not just ride along in as it sails itself.
Sailed at military school in six the grade, and I am taking a keel boat sailing class at 57 years old. So excited and I hope my wife will enjoy it with me eventually!
I started on an old C22. Learned a lot. Raising the mast by myself in less then 1 hour.
Nice vid, and I did all the mistakes you did, :O). I now own a 28' that I like to push it to her limits, she loves that :O) An old sea dog asked me once "How did you learn to sail?" and I reply "On a Laser 14'". He looked at me and says "Best school!"
Cheers from Canada
NIce vid and some great tips. I picked up a Cape Dory Typhoon (weekender model) a couple of years ago. It's a great sturdy day sailer that in my opinion is the best sailboat to learn on. The accommodations aren't much to write home about but she has a stiff full keel and handles weather and chop very nice for a small 18.5 foot boat. I did a lot of work mainly undoing some poor shoddy work that was done by previous owners. And that is something to watch out for. Many boat owners are DIY types, but they cut a lot of corners and often end up leaving future owners to fix their mistakes. That is something to watch to for when buying a used boat - particularly one that is a bit older (mine is 1973). I learned a lot about boat repair and maintenance as well as sailing on my Typhoon.
Good Advice... people also TRY to hide issues. The seller of my boat had to know it was leaking, but he told me it was because he washed it the day prior. I'm thinking the best way to buy a old sailboat is to buy it from somebody who has owned it and uses it and clearly respects it and has worked to maintain and fix it up along the way. This will allow for many hours of sailing instead of working on it or worrying about what's wrong with it. I also am reading a new book "stress free sailing" that says to become good at sailing before you take your loved on out on it.... because otherwise they may say things like, "I'll never step foot on that boat again", which isn't what you want!
Thank you for reminding me why I gave up sailing and have NO regrets
I got started when I was like 6 on my grandpa's home built sailboat. I'm now 32 and at a point where it's in my budget to afford one. Thanks for the vid.
The most entertaining intro to sailing film I’ve watched 😊
Just starting now.
A very dear friend of the family is a master sailor having sailed around the world several times. He is teaching me how. We went out on a 10' last week for the first time and I can't wait to go again.
Wow, how lucky you are to have somebody to take you out like that.. have fun!
@@AdventuresInParadise I really am very fortunate.
I got started at summer camp in the 80's! It's always something i remember loving and would like to get back into. Small boat just cruising on the lake.
5:18 I did pause the video then red that you ruined it 😂
i paused it *so* i can read it lmao
thanks, I totally missed that, hilarious
Yup
I was kid watching the SORC races starting out of Tampa Bay and was fascinated by those billowing spinnakers and organized chaos that is the starting line. Later on as a teen, I was taught the basics in those small beloved "beer cooler" type boats in Mullet Key Bayou and then took some day sails and overnight trips on a friends 30 footer. I moved away from the coast but about 10 years ago I read a book about a sailboat with my niece and nephew and thought: "Why not?
Excellent video. My first boat was a 40 year old Cal 25. On the West coast there are lots of these and parts were easy to source. I sailed her up and down the West coast for nearly 3 years. Plenty of overnights and longer. I sailed from Redondo to Catalina many times, down to Baha, up to San Fransisco. Proper pocket cruiser. I leaned all the basic skills on her.
Thanks for that! I hope to one day be able to say something similar!
Just took ASA 101 and I'm searching for my first boat. Your video was very helpful!
At 38yo I bought my first boat 1973 coronado 27 and sailed it on the Oregon coast. 15yrs later I have a 1997 Catlina 22 MKII and sail it on Grand Lake in Oklahoma. The Catalina 22 is a great little boat. I love it, I dont think I will ever need another boat.
Just bought a 1969 Coronado 25
Thanks. This has made me rethink if I should sell it...
Very inspiring thoughts. Some times we overthing to much for example having a kitchen and if you really need it etc...
My first real boat was a 33 ft. Bought it because I wanted to live aboard, and refit it prior to retirement. The boat is now being remitted, and I'm about 3 years from retirement and sailing away. But I started years ago on smaller boats. Crewing other boats and getting several ASA certification have buld confidence. Awesome video. Fair winds.
I looked at a hunter 340 yesterday. I have the same plan. Closer to 5 year on the water. Is the 33 big enough? Let me know.
@@jeffhidalgo198 The 33 is big enough for one (I lived 2 years in it) but me and my wife, got back together, after the boat went on the hard for a refit, and now I wish I had a 38, or 40. It could work, just tight and tonnage is all on the liiw side. The refit includes bringing all the lines, including three reef lines, to the cockpit.
this series of getting you boat sail-able is awesome I have a westerly nomad that has done nothing, seen no-one on in the past 11 years and I decided to take it as a project and have no idea what I'm doing. 🤣
I bought my first sailboat about 3 months ago. I had wanted one for a long time but had never even been on a sailboat before. Originally, I wanted a decent sized boat 30ft or bigger but decided on an Aquarius 23 which is a trailer sailer and I'm very happy I did! With the keel and rudder up, it only drafts a little over a foot so it can go anywhere. I've still run aground in it and it's light enough to get out and push it free. I never feel unsafe in this boat and it's difficult to get into too much trouble. Having a forgiving boat for your first is very important. It's big enough to take a weekend trip and I don't have to pay marina fees because I keep it on the trailer at my house. Also, I can sail anywhere. If it wasn't on a trailer, the marina would always be my point of origin. On a trailer, I can explore a place 200 miles away if I want and come back the same day. My point of origin is whatever boat ramp I launch from.
I built a One Sheet Skiff into a mini-sailboat. I used Tyvek and carpet tape for the sails and cheap pine 1x2's and screws together for the mast. Yes, its only 8 feet long (I'm 210lbs) and yes I had to guess where to put the dagger board but hey it sailed really well with a main and a jib and you can throw it on top of your car and any small lake will do. Cost's less than $100 to make... My lasted for nearly 8 years and I only used steel and aluminum and painted it with Wal-Mart latex house paint.... I also took sailing classes in college - we had C-Larks for that..
The best part of sailing is the learning, get it right and it feels so good.
My first sailboat was a 8' compressed styrofoam dinghy we had in the early 1960's. We lived on the Lafayette river in Norfolk, Va. It was so fun and the draft was next to nothing. It was a single sail with a removable center board. I do wish I could fine something today light and easy to tow.
Just what I needed to hear! Thank you! I was correct on almost all of my assumptions and you sound like the thoughts in my head. You nailed it when you started throwing the books on the table! Great video and I'm a new subscriber!
Not sailing yet. I’m from Hawaii but live in Sacramento California. My wife and I want to learn how to sail but we are doing a lot of research first. Your video was a big help.
Hey, your advice is spot on. Also enjoy the voice over instead of me face time. Ive been looking at boats for a while and Ive been wrestling the practicalities of a 22 ft boat, despite some tempting 26-28ft ones. All your reasons make perfect sense and have convinced me to narrow my focus to 22 ft max. Thanks!
Thanks! Check out the Catalina 25. It's not too big, but at least the cabin is big enough to be in. Still has an outboard, but probably a roller furling and some things that will make things a little better.
AWESOME! Thanks for the great continent. I have not started sailing yet. Just picked up a "freebie" that needs work...Heres to the Beginning of The Journey!
I'm interested in buying a small sail boat and you've given me more confidence. Thank you.
s/v Tikiti-boo, I have a similar story in that I have always been a power boater and still have my Montauk Whaler, I purchased a Kittiwake 23.10, 1977. It is in great condition with an engine and all the extras you could imagine. The owner was an old timer looking to depart sailing. Although it was already in Bristol condition, I spent additional time and money fitting it out even better.
You are so accurate on the total cost to own with storage and mooring fees. I have learned so much by single handing this beautiful boat. I say, stay small and dream big.. Love your channel.
I recently bought a 86 hunter 25.5, my first keel boat. Your videos are very helpful and inspiring! Thanks!
Be SURE to take a local class on rules of the road and other important aids to sailing. The US Coast Guard is a good source and there are others in town. A MUST!
I sailed my whole life until I got married. Been begging my husband for a boat for 25 years. I used to sail out of Miami. Many trips to Bimini, island hopping in the Bahamas, sailing Biscayne Bay every weekend for 30 years. Still in Florida (Clearwater), but I have only sailed in Massachusetts every summer (til this one) for the past 25 years. I want a boat NOW and I am doing all the reserarch so I can finally get my boat. Looking in the 24-30' range. Daysailing, overnighters, and maybe a big trip across the Gulf to New Orleans! I would love to island hop again, but there is no way my hubby could handle being on a small boat for more than a day or 2. And I prefer not to go solo. Kids are grown and in school/working so that leaves me to only go on short trips. Otherwise, he is gonna divorce me. On the other hand, being apart may keep us together lol!
I bought a 23 footer a while back, wife refuses to go with..oh well..
You may be surprised. He might end up liking it! I out of the blue bought a Cat22 a couple of years ago. At first my wife was like "What?? I don't think I'll like this". Now my wife is all about it. I can't even manage to get to the boat solo.
@@pvb9964 hey ill come with you hahaha
That’s so funny
He will not divorce you 😂 don't worry, I will be moving that area next year, maybe we can be sailing buddy.
He’s right: buy a small boat with a main sail and a jib and learn the principles of sailing first. I did it backwards: jumped onto a big boat and crewed on the Mackinac race just doing what I was told on one task. Picking up tidbits in between the yelling. That’s an inefficient way to learn. So then bought an old 14’ racing boat for $600 and started racing on an inland lake. Quickly learned how to trim the main and jib and tactics and balance. It’s much more fun when you know how it all works.
And you don’t really need to own a big boat to sail a big boat. They’re always looking for crew.
Your advice is reinforcing my decision. Hope to look at a 17 ft this weekend.
@@oeautobody3586 Yay! Please report your findings!
I learned to sail on a 14’ O’Day Javelin we launched off Dunedin Causeway in the mid 80s. A main, jib, no motor. Love St Joseph’s Sound.
Wow, that's great! What was the draft of that boat? I'll bet it's far busier out there compared to back then. Weekends get to be like a boat highway. The gulf seems calm compared to all the wake in the channel.
Adventures In Paradise Draft was inches with all the boards up, but the causeway drops off quick. I think there is a kayak/sailboat rental place there now. As far as traffic it was still crazy on the weekends. I still get out there to camp the spoil islands a few times a year, and usually do the Dunedin Triathlon and I think it’s been pretty steady, maybe more but I’m so used to it and always try to avoid the highest traffic areas
I’m in Brandon, really like Dunedin. Looking for a sailboat to learn on and enjoy with the family.
I was over at the Safety Harbor marina and noticed a lot of sailboats. I guess those people primarily sail in the bay. You have some marinas on your side too!
Pretty much all my life i've been a fan of sailboats. The only reason I haven't got into it till just recently is because I had 3 miss conceptions about it. 1: I thought sailing was 10x slower than it actually is. 2: I thought it was physically impossible to sail upwind. 3: I thought it was extremely expensive. Now here's how I got into it. TH-cam is what taught me what sailing is really like (plus I lucid dream alot so I was able to get an surprisingly accurate feel for what it was like), then I bought some freak hybrid between a laser, topper, and a sunfish mini for $200 which is a ton of fun to sail, then I gave my sister that boat and bought a 1968 lightning 19', which is also fun to sail, but I plan on selling it and using the money to get something with a cabin.
Thank you so much for your videos! I’m looking at purchasing my first sailboat, and your videos have made my decision educational and straightforward. I’m looking at a Catalina 30. It has A LOT of work to get it up to sailing condition, but I’m determined.
Thanks and good luck!
I'm from Pinellas and have considered either vanlife or saillife, with the latter sounding like the best option. Thanks for this video and resources, I learned a lot.
that is a nice little yacht you have. my first boats were always homebrew. i did have a sunfish, some kayaks with homebrew sailing rigs, and inflatable dinghies with same sailing rigs. i've sailed larger boats, such as a yankee 24, but never owned anything like that, till i got a fixer-upper venture last year.
My wife and decided we wanted to learn to sail this June. We found a place to take some lessons here in Colorado and. 1st. sail, middle of the lake, wind stops. 2nd sail, sail to middle of the lake, wind stops, 3rd sail drive 21/2 hours to lake, phone call canceled lesson. 4th lesson go out have wind nervous about the heeling. Dealing with the gusts and another sail boat down wind from us goes over and sinks. (messed with my head).
Mean time we buy an old boat, try going out when we can. So far had to repair the mane sail, mane halyard, swing keel Assembly. Part of owning a boat.
Not giving up. We keep working at it and making improvements.
Enjoyed this vedeo because some one else was nervous also, not just me. helped a lot Thanks.
I can tell you we've had these days too. Too much wind and didn't sail and had some close calls and had no wind and just sat there bobbing around. It does get easier and more fun as you experience it and do it more, I'm finding.
I got started as tiny tot on the hobie cats. And I’ve gotta have the most pitch poles award by now
Thank you for this video! My husband and I want to learn how to sail and your video really helps!
Thanks!
i saw a 1967 Newport 16 with trailer for free on facebook, i procrastinated for a few days then contacted the person, i love just gliding along slowly with no pollution. also i raise the mast, rig it and install the sails and make sure everything is ready and properly working before i ever put it in the water.
My first sailboat (at the age of 12) was a galvanized wash/bath tub that I mounted a square sail using an old bed sheet and scrap lumber. We had a small lake behind our house. Using my mother's wash paddle, I would paddle the bathtub up wind, then raise the sail and using the paddle as a rudder, sail downwind. I would then drop sail, paddle up wind, and repeat.
In my early twenties, I was in a book store and stumbled upon "This is Sailing" by Creagh-Osborne, a sailor and graphic illustrator. Awesome book!!! Highly, highly recommend it. I memorized the book. This was way before the internet/TH-cam. I then bought a small 10ft sloop with all the basic hardware and headed for the water and never had a problem. Started a weekend business renting sailboats (I was a chemist at the time) in order to pay for my first cabin sailboat, a 22ft Sunchaser (very similar to a 22ft Catalina). Also had an American 23 and an American 27 Motor Sailor. I once even crewed on a tall ship through the American Sail Training Association. That was an experience I will never forget.
And it all started with a galvanized bathtub, an old bedsheet, some scrap lumber and a wash paddle.
Wow! That's an amazing way to get started in sailing!
I also started with a powerboat, but a friend of mine had built a 16 ft sail boat, I went sailing with him one day and absolutely feel in love with sailing, I've owned a couple of small sailboats since then
I start with Catalina 25 fin keel on salt water. I think 25 feet sailboat it's a minimum comfortable size with toilet sinks kitchen etc. Even 27 feet if you wanna stand up in cabin at all time.
Last time I sailed I was fifteen. Kids are raised and now they are doing there thing. Soon after samething happen my health went south. Forced in retirement. You know desablaty. Can't work and you get a check that no one can live on. So, I'm homeless. Kind of. I live in a friends garage. It will never be a home. I tried motor home. 7 miles to the gallon. Nope got read of that. So now I'm looking for a sail boat. Wish me luck. Doing nothing for three weeks sailing the ICW hanging out. I really like this one sail boat. 26 Dawson with aft cabin. I was thinking of using the aft cabin as a shop for a place to set up a sewing machine for sail repair and cushions. Of course some of my tools. Not the heavy one's. Wen I was loosing every thing I Kemp my tools.
Update on how it's going?
@@that1chad703 it's just a dream. To get away. Now I'm fighting heart problems. Just had four stints put in. No sailing for me. I'll live with you doing the sailing and enjoying others living there dream.
@@shawnmts7109 I'm sorry to hear that, I hope you have atleast 1 dream that you can pursue, sending love and have a nice day😀💛
Nice series of videos. Started in college on a Flying Scot then when to sailing school in Germany courtesy of the US Army. Sailed lasers and a variety of hobie cats. Back in the States I joined a local sailing club which is a great way to get experience racing and day sailing. Raced Thistles and Flying Scots. Then started crewing on a tall ship (Kalmar Nyckel). A great experience. Great learning for maintaining a wood boat lol. I have not been sailing much in the last few years but want to get back to it either buying or joining a sailing time share. Really like to get a trimaran (Corsair) for the speed and the ability to trailer but they are not cheap! First I will take a proper cruising course!
THIS GUY's spouting out truth. Every tip here you should heed before becoming a new [sail]Boat owner. Great wisdom.
Wow, I don't know if I deserved that, but thank you!!! I've been thinking of making another one as some time has passed an i have a few more tips.
This was super good to watch. I just got a free Newport 19 and am super excited to get it into the water!
Thanks!
I learned how to sail at summer camp in the Adirondacks. First on a sunfish, then a laser. I moved up to skipper my friends dads ‘27 foot on the Hudson. When I moved to Washington state, I bought a 27’ Reinell. Needed much work and the moorage fees were killing me. I sold that and decided to try motor boats. Bought a 24’ Searay Sorento. Very nice boat, but my friends liked it more than I did because after a weekend of boating I’m the one left cleaning and maintaining it. Sold that too. Now in my old age, I build and sail rc sailboats. Lol. Turns out the best time I’ve had sailing was on that laser!
One of the best overall getting started in sailing videos ever! Excellent!
My first boat was and is the Albin Vega 27 .I did a ton of research b4 my purchase.my approach to everything in life is to dive in head first and to blazes with the consequences! I didn't want to mess around buying boat after boat and all the time that is wasted in the process, I wanted it all and I wanted it now!.I wanted a yacht that was easy to learn on yet still offered plenty of room to grow and at the same time the yacht had to be tough and durable ....durable enough to take us across oceans and I wanted all this at an affordable price(I paid $9000) .And if all that isn't enough she and I had to be ready for off shore sailing within 6 months.It was a steep and intense learning curve but like most things in life ,in my humble opinion , a little faith , and a little courage go a long way. Of course if "fear" is in your vocabulary I wouldn't recommend this approach,but it's a hell of a thrill!
I honestly can't imagine ever having or needing another boat.The Albin Vega handles incredibly well through rough weather.My next trip is going to be from BC to Mexico but without entering US waters....can't wait.
Love this I'm new and got a 21' venture 79 in MN. No aft stay blew my mind. Just replaced the swing keel bolt and washers 38 bucks. Dry as a bone now. DMV isn't open I got no title and registration from 06😂 it's never enough.😘
I’m 39 and very close to retiring from the army infantry and it’s been a ride. For the last 16 years I’ve saved money with the idea of a sail boat when I get out and I’m close now
You are simply right in each and every thought. Period.
Hey, thanks so much, this was put together very well, learned what I needed to understand for a beginner. Nice pace on the tutorial. It's much more meaningful to have someone demonstrating and describing each move, thanks so much!
Thanks!
my brother and myself bought our first sailing boat, a 23ft. weve taught ourselves to sail and the one thing we quickly learnt was that u need power on a boat ,we had to get a outboard to help us navigate off the mooring without hitting the other boats around(don't try do that under sail in the beginning) we had a battery that we had to charge at home and lag onto the boat each time .that was such a mission and u cant really run a deck wash or lights etc. for long before its dead.
the next boat we getting will have an inboard engine for sure, luckily we are mechanically minded otherwise it can become another troublesome area!
my 2 cents worth
Anytime somewhat admits humility in their sailing skills and failures I am going to give them a like
my first ever sailing boat arrived today12/2/21 im complete novice so you're video was extremely helpfull
I think you meant 2/12... what boat did you get?
Solid advice. I would offer, however, that buying a boat that needs to be rehabbed is a great way to learn to sail. I bought a 1972 MacGregor Venture 2-24 in 2017 when I retired. I had taken adult sailing classes and had sailed on other people's boats, earlier. We had a chop down a mulberry tree that had grown up through the A-frame of the trailer to get it out of the previous owners' back yard where it had sat under a rotting tarp for 8 years. I sailed it for half a season on Lake Michigan last year, and a full season this year, but I'm still learning and making improvements. You're correct though. You won't save money. I paid $1,800 for my boat, motor, trailer and 4 sails. I'm put more than twice that into it, not counting labor. The advantage is, however, you'll know the boat inside out, have confidence in it, and this will help you once you get it on the water. I laughed when I saw you wrestling with your foresail that wasn't hanked on yet. My similar mistake was I forgot to tie stop knots in the jib sheets and had both of them flying out over the bow.
But at twice the cost you are still way less than a new sailboat. New boats have really gone up in price and there are a lot fewer manufacturers.
Nice Video. Refreshing change from all the "glossy" sailing videos... for me I am just getting started building my own sailboat, a Bruce Roberts 27 foot
Thanks! I looked up that boat - interesting. How much will that cost and how long will it take?
@@AdventuresInParadise From several other builders I have talked too I should be able to get it done in a year (sail-able, Boats are never truly done are they?)... Being in Thailand and building on my own land that cost is alot less then North America... the Steel for the shell of the boat is only about $2,000 then tools and whatever I put in her.... I will be building my own mast since she will be Junk Rigged and also making my own sail so that also reduces the cost alot... looking about 10k done and can sail with the BASICS needed.... Also will be looking at Salvage parts or second hand for things I cannot make myself. Also will reduce the cost alot.
LOL jack wagon, I appreciate you so much, honesty on the internet is rare
i learned to sail on a catalina 22 and always wished for a laser or dinghy to really get a feel for whats going on. I have a tricked out super snark now. it's a clunky tub but perfect for learning.thx for posting!
Great video! I dont have a sailboat nor do I know how to sail. But Ive always wanted to learn and buy a sailboat. Wheres a good place to take sailing lessons down there in Florida? Keep making awesome videos and thanks for inspiring thoose of us that dream to do what your doing. Thanks
Thanks! You'll find places online, just ask Google... and check out the Key Lime sailing club in the keys, where you get a sailboat with your stay. I think lessons also.
Good video !! Note I got started a few years ago I joined a boat club seaforth located in San Diego Ca after a year approximately my brother and I purchased a 27 ‘ Catalina this was a great first boat and it doubled as a condo on the water wow what fun we had. A few years ago we sold it. I’m now looking for a bit larger boat possibly a 30 ‘ note length is not as important as I would like a larger beam 10’ plus would be nice. Thank you happy sailing ⛵️
Thanks for the tips, I'll definitely do the checklist. I'm buying my first sailboat on Monday, it's a 17 foot long stortris that I'm paying 1000 dollars for.
Excellent video and a lot of good advice.I have a wonderful boat but the learning curve is pretty high for this old geezer.
oh wow, I am glad i found your video/s. I just had to pause and go to google maps because i didn't know you could right click and do the measurement calculator like this. I have been using websites to slowly calculate distances and they are never accurate. Thank You. lol. I am going to watch the rest of the video now.
Yes, very useful. Navionics is nice in that you can input the average speed of your boat and then it figures times, but the google maps is helpful for basic distances..
You’re going to be my first sailing channel sub. Sailing is my best opportunity to travel, live economically, and sustainably and I have a shot at making it work if I get get the right info. I got some great tips from watching this to move forward in my research.
👍🏼 keep ‘em coming‼️
I race sail on smaller boats mostly, the wind=length rule really doesn't apply there. For example I have sailed 420s in 35-40 knot winds without major problems (Make sure your crew is a big guy). The max power wind your boat can take depends on purely the design. Most recreational 20-24ft sailboats I find can take around 30knots but after that you just have to luff the sail a ton. I recommend picking out boats with experienced people who can give you an idea of how good a boat actually is and the battering it can take.
Been growing up with cabin cruisers, super boats and jetskis, but damn I want my first boat to be a sailboat! The fact that you can travel anywhere without thinking of fuel costs and without a noisy engine just seems like the ultimate freedom a person can have! Thinking about getting something like a 25 foot sailboat, and hopefully I can learn some sailing from someone I know while I save up for it! Eventually, when I have money for a longer journey (and some actual sailing experience) I want to sail around the coast of Norway and sail into some of the amazing fjords the west coast has to offer.
That sounds like a good plan!
Great vid, I got started sailing at the Seattle Sailing Club with ASA
Go small go now. I have been canoeing and kayaking for all my life, but sailing was limited to a big schooner and dinguis. In spring 2020 I bought a 20 foot trailer sailer with a friend. Some small repairs and we were sailing. 19 days in the boat totally 2020 ans 21 days totally 2021. I knew the basics, but alot was learning by doing. Made many small misstakes, but only one large. While setting sail alone I blew over a rock under water. Managed to raise the keel and drive of with the outboard motor. When mooring in the evening I felt like the lousiest sailor ever to been on a boat. But the hull was fine. A repairable crack in the keel. This year I am going to get the halyards to the pit. So I don't have to be all the way to the mast raising and lowering the sails. The jib will get a pull down line, also operated from the pit.
Sailing is the journey and an ongoing learning experience.
the "pull down line" is called a downhaul. i got in to shallow my first time and got my keel hung up on an underwater log. btw my draft is about 18 inches
@@jimsmith9819 English is my third language. My draft is about a meter with the keel down. Half a meter folded backwards. 20 cm with the keel lifted in the boat. But it is not possible to steer without some keel down.
@@andvil01 a meter is about 39 inches or 3 1/4 feet, my keel is fixed and i like it that way
@@jimsmith9819 Yes, but unless US, Liberia and Myanmar, the rest of the world have gone metric. Come join us. We've got cookies.
Learned to sail DECADES ago on the Great Salt Laake (It actually had enough water in it then) I'd go out with several friends and we'd det the tiller for North, open a case of beer, and sail for a couple of hours. We'd then turn about, open another case, and ssil South back to the marina. Young an stupid. It was fun, though, and I haven't sailed since. Maybe next year (without the beer this time)
Thank you so much for showing some of the books you bought, it helps!!
Thanks again friend. Have a great one.
Sailed a ComPac 16 West Palm -Bimini Bahamas and back over a 2 week span early 2000s. Someone was watching over me for sure!
Currently have a Precision-18 for short 2-3 day trips cruising the Lake Erie Islands.
Planning to build a Wave Rover this winter 6.5m (22’) Oceanic Battle tank for a Atlantic circuit summer-fall 25’
Stumbled on your videos, great stuff! And comical! Will definitely be subscribing thank you 😅
Bought a sunfish last winter. patched it up, slapped some paint on it and have been out 3 times so far. I love it and would absolutely love to learn more on a bigger boat. Unfortunate side to the sunfish is tipping over is part of the experience and they are pretty hard for a novice like myself to control in stronger winds. Definitely looking to upgrade in the near future. My goal is to sail the Atlantic inner coastal from Maryland to Florida and back.
wow that's great! Everything else you sail will seem easier and probably like slow motion compared to the sunfish.
Mate perfect🙂👍, i will start small on my lake.. step by step .. thanks . Smooth sailing . ⛵
Dude, thank you so much for posting this! Our youngest will be going to college in Baltimore, so we’re officially going to be empty nesters and I am concerned my wife will start filling the void with more dogs….This is exactly what I am thinking Annapolis isn’t too far from Baltimore I am fairly handy just restored two houses during the pandemic and a Mercedes….well kinda)
Sorry posted too quickly. When is the best time to buy a smaller boat like this? Also, any suggestions as to where to buy from?
We started with smaller dinghies after owning power boats as well, in fact still have them because they're fun and easy to set up for short sails and mucking around inshore with the kids. We pretty much have done exactly what you have as far as buying a smaller trailer 25ft boat to see how we like sailing the bigger boats, My dream and maybe not my wifes is to eventually get something bigger. be able to tiki tour around on more extended holidays. but I don't think I'll be wearing a Bikini any time soon :D :D Good video and great advice.
Good comment... you certainly need extended holidays to use the sailboats.... it takes a long time to go anywhere and a weekend just isn't enough. At least yours is on a trailer!
@@AdventuresInParadise Dreams vs reality I guess, How are you enjoying to new boat?
What a small world I'm thinking of living and sailing on a boat as an alternative living, there's a year round marina nearby that charges $500 a month to dock year round. Compare that to rents in the area starting at $1500. Anyway I saw a used Catalina 22 selling for $900 were I live. As you mentioned in the video the cheaper the boat the more work you must do..I'm considering on buying it your right it's a popular boat with lots of parts available.
Mate - this was a great video! Love your sense of humor!
i got started as 1 year old on a 8ft Swedish designed hurricane braker sorm regata race bolid. Did it a whole lot before I turned 6. It's been many decades now, am an old sea wulf
Of course I paused the video! Did you think I came here just to look at boats? LOL. Great video!