Take the forces of nature and combine them with some practical knowledge and you’ve got the recipe for an exciting hobby.
The appeal of sailing is certainly not difficult to understand. The opportunity to get outside and try your hand at taming the seas is something which people all over the world are taking advantage of.
Whether your idea of a perfect day on the water involves gale force winds and a spinnaker or a gentle breeze, the warm sunshine and some crystal clear waters, it’s important that you get the chance to put your skills to work every now and then.
Here, we take a look at a handful of sailing events which can help you to do just this but you can also find a full list of events for all abilities at the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) website.
Once you’ve got to grips with the basics of sailing, there’s nothing more exciting than taking part in your first racing event. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to do this is to take part in a local regatta.
You should be able to choose from a variety of classes, ensuring that you can hit the shallow seas in a boat of your choice. Whether you opt to go solo in a speedy Laser or to take a friend or two on-board with something a little bigger, you can be sure that you’ll have the time of your life; whether you win or lose.
Not until you’ve put yourself up against the locals will you be able to spend a day at leisure in the full knowledge that you have what it takes to push your boat to the edge.
If you’re looking for the ultimate event to seal your ‘sailor status’, look no further than the Yachtmaster Qualification.
The Yachtmaster moves a little bit beyond the basics so not only will you be expected to know how to perform a skilful tack and to recognise how best to plot a route, taking into account the changes of wind and tide, but you’ll be asked to rack up a good amount of experience applying this knowledge out on the water.
This is a great qualification to have under your belt and the event is perfect for sailors looking to test their mettle.
Before trying your hand at sailing events that test your skills, you need to make sure you’re fully prepared.
In addition to the practical skills which help you take control of the boat itself, there is a vast amount of safety information which you’ll need to take on board if you’re serious about getting into sailing.
One of the best ways of acquiring such information and the competency required to implement all you learn is to book onto a day skipper course.
Day skipper courses are designed to provide instruction to people of various levels of knowledge, making them the perfect choice for a beginner looking to gain a little confidence before hitting the seas on their own.
You’ll also need to look at health and safety or first aid courses. The skills you’ll pick up in the early days of your interest in sailing will extend far beyond gaining an understanding of the wind and tide. By its nature, the sport of sailing entails some level of danger and, therefore, responsibility.
As you are so reliant upon the weather, it’s never possible for the skipper to be in complete control. In anticipation of this, it can pay to learn a little about first aid when you’re getting stuck into sailing.
The Royal Yachting Association‘s courses always incorporate an element of safety and if you intend to take charge when you’re in company on the water, it is important that you have a good level of knowledge when it comes to first aid.
When you’re trying to take the step from beginner to seasoned pro, there’s no better way to do it than to take on one of the most highly respected qualifications out there. Find out more about sailing events for beginners, sailing courses and other boating advice at the Boating Hub blog.