Looking to learn.

[Rosco]

Hey folks,
My name is Rosco and have been interested in learning the ropes of sailing. I was just hoping for some advice on where, when and how to start. I am a hard working 23 year old man from the mid-west. I grew up on a farm so sailing wasn't much of an option. I'm living in Honolulu right now and my goal is to hopfully sail with someone from here to the mainland in the near future. Please let me know you thoughts on this topic even if it's bitter honesty telling me that I shouldn't waste my time cause honestly I dont know!!!! I'd appreciate any help! Thanks a lot.

Truly,
Rosco

 

[Bill Roosa]

Go ahead, waste your time

That is what I enjoy about sailing the most. Your plan to go you with someone is a good one. If you don't know anything most sailors will be happy to explain the basics. You may need to bring the beer though.
If you want to get familiar with the basics before you go out (so you can ask good questions) get Chapman's piloting or Annapolis seamanship. I found myself the owner of a 30' Catalina and the chief maintenance, safety, navigation, and Captain. When we moved the boat to its new home about 200 miles away, all I knew was what I had read in Chapman's and found myself well prepared if somewhat inexperienced.

 

[Paul Mermelstein]

Hey folks,
My name is Rosco and have been interested in learning the ropes of sailing.

First thing is, they are called lines on a boat, not ropes. Seriously though, your idea of learning from other sailors is the right approach. It takes time and experience, so learn on someone else's boat.

Also, look into sailing and boating courses. You will need to know Seamanship, Piloting, and some navigation as well as rules of the road, in addition to the actual mechanics of sailing. A good way to supplement hands-on experience with others is to join a local US Power Squadron (most squadrons have both sail and power boat members). Or courses through the Annapolis Sailing School or other formal courses.

Sailing is great fun, and I applaud your interest and intent to work hard at it. Welcome aboard! (pun intended)

 

[Ross]

If you can learn by reading then there is wealth of information available in print. Immerse yourself in the subject of sailing and boats. make little models that you can launch and watch sail away or capsize or not do anything predictable. You can sail a cedar shingle with a tin can lid for a keel, a twig for a mast and a piece of paper for a sail. Be a kid again and develop an insatiable appitite for learning. But above all read, read ,read. Novels, text books, big books, little books, sailing for dummies, how to rig a sailboat. turnoff the TV and read. Some of what you read will contradict other things that you read, be discerring.

 

[Freedom77]

You've entered paradise. Your surrounded by water and sailboats of every size and shape. If you have the time become a boat bum and offer to crew with anyone who will take you. You'll learn a lot and make some new friends. Don't know how hard it is to get into yacht clubs there but give it a try. Also, don't forget the beer part. Fair winds...

 

[cephius (Dave)]

Rosco,
Most sailboat owners are very friendly and take the time to talk to people when in their slip.

I know the Hawaiian Islands have a very limited number of recreational marinas, however Honolulu has one of the largest. If the public is allowed on the docks, walk around and meet sailors. They can help with local information on how to get started. If you can't get onto the docks, check the buildings for postings about events. You might even find postings for owners looking for crew. Check the yacht broker's office. There may be free papers with boat listings that also include classified ads.

As others have said, read up on sailing.