What's up folks. I am a 48 year old guy who all my life has had a passion for motorcyles and kayaks. For the last many years I have expressed to my wife that I have always wanted to learn to sail. Nothing on a grand scale, just catching a little wind on a day when it is just too windy to kayak comfortably. I dont have a clue on how to get started. I would like a boat that would be just large enough for 2-4 people and have an auxillary power source (small electric or gas engine). I have a need to harness the wind !! I think I may need a hobiecat type vessel or a small boat without the "shark fin" hanging under it. I live near many lakes and some of them have water levels that fluctuate quite a bit. I might be in 30 feet of water one minute and in two feet the next. I need something that is gonna skim the surface with very little draft. I need to get started. I have always gazed in awe as a sailer silently wisked by my kayak harnessing every last bit of wind his sails could hold. Help me out wind masters !!!!
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i am bias to oday
but maybe an oday 19.look for a boat where u can raise the centerboard(shark fin).on lakes this could be quite handy.good luck buddy, i hope u fall love with this sport like i did.
but maybe an oday 19.look for a boat where u can raise the centerboard(shark fin).on lakes this could be quite handy.good luck buddy, i hope u fall love with this sport like i did.
Bud Once you start you will end up like me in a 38 foot Catalina. I just started hiring small Catamarans, then progress to 25-30 mono hulls with Drop keels, these are far more comfortable ( at our age ) and also Trailable. With the keel up you can run them onto the shore which is great at night, they can also sail in shallow waters. My suggestion is go to a few boat shows and see what's around. As far as learning to sail, once you know the basics ( buy a book on sailing ) then its just a matter of getting out in the middle of the lake and experiment with your craft. Once you get the bug you will be back for a big Catalina. Good luck Bud.
It's all downwind from there
I feel your pain. I was 46 when I decided I just couldn't take it any more. I had sailed a few times in the late 70's and felt the same way. It seemed the need to feel the wind and waves was overwhelming. I took the plunge and signed up for basic sailing lessons, the very best undertaking of my life. In september of 2003 we bought our first boat, a Hunter 26, now the wife and 2 kids love to sail. We have made all the usual mistakes and are still here to tell the tale. Jump in and make it happen, you may just find what you have been missing in life. J. R. Setser S/V Lifetimestoo 1998 Hunter 26
I feel your pain. I was 46 when I decided I just couldn't take it any more. I had sailed a few times in the late 70's and felt the same way. It seemed the need to feel the wind and waves was overwhelming. I took the plunge and signed up for basic sailing lessons, the very best undertaking of my life. In september of 2003 we bought our first boat, a Hunter 26, now the wife and 2 kids love to sail. We have made all the usual mistakes and are still here to tell the tale. Jump in and make it happen, you may just find what you have been missing in life. J. R. Setser S/V Lifetimestoo 1998 Hunter 26
We were all once in your place
At some point in time all of us were in your shoes. Having the deep desire to sail and to learn can seem like a huge challange, but it isn't as hard as it is made out to be. Start on something really basic and cheap. After you get the hang of it upgrade. A lot of people learnt to sail on a sunfish or something similar. They are great boats, extremely portable, fun to sail, and easy to learn on. Get a boat with only one sail on it to start (less confusing). If you can find one, take a sailing course. Another fun way to learn is to start racing. Find a local yacht club that does club level racing. A lot of people are looking for crew and they will pick anyone up. The more you sail with them the more you will learn. It is a fun and competitive way to learn (it will also force you to learn things quicker). The other good part of that is that you aren't paying out a lot of money. Good luck and chase your dream!
At some point in time all of us were in your shoes. Having the deep desire to sail and to learn can seem like a huge challange, but it isn't as hard as it is made out to be. Start on something really basic and cheap. After you get the hang of it upgrade. A lot of people learnt to sail on a sunfish or something similar. They are great boats, extremely portable, fun to sail, and easy to learn on. Get a boat with only one sail on it to start (less confusing). If you can find one, take a sailing course. Another fun way to learn is to start racing. Find a local yacht club that does club level racing. A lot of people are looking for crew and they will pick anyone up. The more you sail with them the more you will learn. It is a fun and competitive way to learn (it will also force you to learn things quicker). The other good part of that is that you aren't paying out a lot of money. Good luck and chase your dream!
Newbie too
From one newbie to another, I'm not sure how good my advice is but I can share my recent experience with you. I've owned ski boats and motorcycles but always had this desire to learn to sail. Finally, at 52, and after raising three kids, I decided to give it a try. No, it's not midlife, just a desire to learn something new and relax a little. After a six month search, I purchased a 1979 Oday 23. Yesterday I took it out for the first time. The wind was light but we (an experienced instructor, my two son-in-laws, and myself) made the best of it. I'm hooked! We're headed out again for a follow-up lesson on Thursday and then I'll spend a few weeks practicing what I've learned. To make a long story shorter, I'd say go for it. I found a great boat for a good price, it needed a little elbow grease, but it's solid and ready to sail. You shouldn't have any problem doing the same thing if you look carefully. Lot's of boats coming up for sale about now. The 23 works for me, enough room for four to comfortably sail, it keeps you more dry than a hobie, and there's just enough space for two to overnight if you want. I was like you, for years I watched as the sails went by, believe me, it's better watching the sails fill while you have the tiller in your hand. I wish I done it years ago. MDW
From one newbie to another, I'm not sure how good my advice is but I can share my recent experience with you. I've owned ski boats and motorcycles but always had this desire to learn to sail. Finally, at 52, and after raising three kids, I decided to give it a try. No, it's not midlife, just a desire to learn something new and relax a little. After a six month search, I purchased a 1979 Oday 23. Yesterday I took it out for the first time. The wind was light but we (an experienced instructor, my two son-in-laws, and myself) made the best of it. I'm hooked! We're headed out again for a follow-up lesson on Thursday and then I'll spend a few weeks practicing what I've learned. To make a long story shorter, I'd say go for it. I found a great boat for a good price, it needed a little elbow grease, but it's solid and ready to sail. You shouldn't have any problem doing the same thing if you look carefully. Lot's of boats coming up for sale about now. The 23 works for me, enough room for four to comfortably sail, it keeps you more dry than a hobie, and there's just enough space for two to overnight if you want. I was like you, for years I watched as the sails went by, believe me, it's better watching the sails fill while you have the tiller in your hand. I wish I done it years ago. MDW
Do it
Am an old motoracer who trashed a knee, and was never happy until I stuck my toe in the water , playing the sheets, for about twenty nautical miles, and said to myself:" this is like a 145 mph sweeper and if I fall off I won't die. Fair winds, Jim
Am an old motoracer who trashed a knee, and was never happy until I stuck my toe in the water , playing the sheets, for about twenty nautical miles, and said to myself:" this is like a 145 mph sweeper and if I fall off I won't die. Fair winds, Jim
some thoughts
Your age will be a factor in your choice of boats. Under 30 and in decent shape a hobie may be the answer. At your age, unless you are exceptionally fit, a Hobie is not a good choice. Fun, fast, but not comfortable. Look for a good daysailor like a Chrysler Rebel or an O'Day Widgeon. Both can hold 4-6 and have a centerboard which can be raised for thin water. A small catboat might also be a good choice for you.
Your age will be a factor in your choice of boats. Under 30 and in decent shape a hobie may be the answer. At your age, unless you are exceptionally fit, a Hobie is not a good choice. Fun, fast, but not comfortable. Look for a good daysailor like a Chrysler Rebel or an O'Day Widgeon. Both can hold 4-6 and have a centerboard which can be raised for thin water. A small catboat might also be a good choice for you.
Trailering
Buba - If you have many lakes near you, that indicates that you're probably going to have the boat at your house or stored on a trailer. I would urge you to talk to somebody that understands stepping the mast and rigging the boat. Some boats are much easier than others to get ready for the water. Remember that if you've launched it off your trailer, you have to return it to your trailer to head home. There's quite a bit involved but well worth it when you're out on the water. A Hobiecat it a wet boat. A monohull is a dry boat. You can't really relax with 4 people on a wet boat, hopping all over to keep from capsizing. Just think of the fun you could have spending the weekend on the intracoastal. The right 22' or 24' boat would be great.
Buba - If you have many lakes near you, that indicates that you're probably going to have the boat at your house or stored on a trailer. I would urge you to talk to somebody that understands stepping the mast and rigging the boat. Some boats are much easier than others to get ready for the water. Remember that if you've launched it off your trailer, you have to return it to your trailer to head home. There's quite a bit involved but well worth it when you're out on the water. A Hobiecat it a wet boat. A monohull is a dry boat. You can't really relax with 4 people on a wet boat, hopping all over to keep from capsizing. Just think of the fun you could have spending the weekend on the intracoastal. The right 22' or 24' boat would be great.
Dovekie
You might want to do some research on a boat called a Dovekie. They are a bit unconventional but it sounds like it just might be what you're looking for. The design is by Phil Bolger who has done a lot with beachable sailboat. I found some ads for boats that have either sold or are advertised for sale in the $2,500-$3,500 range. Here's a link to one that sold.
You might want to do some research on a boat called a Dovekie. They are a bit unconventional but it sounds like it just might be what you're looking for. The design is by Phil Bolger who has done a lot with beachable sailboat. I found some ads for boats that have either sold or are advertised for sale in the $2,500-$3,500 range. Here's a link to one that sold.
Newbie, I don't think you can get a motor on a small Hobie Cat. although a Hobie would be good for shallow water. Hobies will turtle if you aren't careful. If you sail any boat without a fixed keel, then u probably are going to go over and get wet while your learning. If you sail a small fixed keel boat such as a Cal 20, (It will seat 6 in the cockpit). it won't go over, but you would have to stay in 4 feet of water. A Cal 20's keel is 3'4". They are inexpensive, quick, and very easy to sail.
Newbie, Cal 20's are still raced all over the U.S. and are the small boat of choice to race in the 25-40 knt winds in the San Fransisco Bay. They cannot be turtled, they have a 900lb keel. They will sleep 4 if the cushions are in the cabin and vberth. (Racers take them out). Sea worthy enough to be sailed to Hawaii. If your brave enough. I've only been sailing for a year, I was sailing mine to Catalina 30 miles off the California coast alone after only sailing for about four months. I now have a Cal 34, but I kept my Cal20 for day sailing or short overnighters, because it's fun.
great advice
Thanks for all the response guys...lots of good info to get me started. Also, I am rather fit for my age. I'm 6'1" tall at 205lbs and work out five times a week. Also kayak for several miles each week. I'm blessed with good health so that shouldn't hender me at all. Hey Jim (motard)...I know your pain. I have had a few surgeries from street and dirt wipes. I am ready to reap the advantages of crashing on the water rather than hard pavement. I'll never quit riding and have four bikes in the stall now. I believe sailing could be as exciting as riding high speeds on a bike. I will be retiring this year and I am going to take about a year off to get my head together. I believe sailing would be a good way to do that. I am a quick study and always love doing new things. Only a few sports stay with me for a long time without boring me. I have to learn to sail. The best advice I can get is from u guys who actually get out there on a frequent basis and learn from your mistakes. I'll be watching your post closely and again,I thank you for your help. I am going to start a lot of reading on the subject to get me going, so as I continue to post in the future my sailing ignorance will at least sound a little more technical. Any recommended web sites,books,or videos would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for all the response guys...lots of good info to get me started. Also, I am rather fit for my age. I'm 6'1" tall at 205lbs and work out five times a week. Also kayak for several miles each week. I'm blessed with good health so that shouldn't hender me at all. Hey Jim (motard)...I know your pain. I have had a few surgeries from street and dirt wipes. I am ready to reap the advantages of crashing on the water rather than hard pavement. I'll never quit riding and have four bikes in the stall now. I believe sailing could be as exciting as riding high speeds on a bike. I will be retiring this year and I am going to take about a year off to get my head together. I believe sailing would be a good way to do that. I am a quick study and always love doing new things. Only a few sports stay with me for a long time without boring me. I have to learn to sail. The best advice I can get is from u guys who actually get out there on a frequent basis and learn from your mistakes. I'll be watching your post closely and again,I thank you for your help. I am going to start a lot of reading on the subject to get me going, so as I continue to post in the future my sailing ignorance will at least sound a little more technical. Any recommended web sites,books,or videos would be greatly appreciated.
Similar situation
Something happened a few years ago. I felt the need to trade speed for sails. I'm also new to this. After reading "The Sailors' Handbook","Chapman's Guide" "Your First Sailboat", "A Womans Guide to Sailing"(Long story,good sailing guide but still haven't figured out how genitals have anything to do with sailing)Basically anything that has 'Sailing' in the title. Steve Colgates video for beginers is ok ( others swear by it). I looked at everything from Two grand to Twenty Two grand. All diferent brands. I am learning on a Macgregor 25. It was Two thousand, and My wife and kids love it. Swing keel to go shallow and easy to trailer, these might be terms that will apply to you. Plus, it won't sink ( at least thats what I'm told ) It's a start, Hope yours goes well...
Something happened a few years ago. I felt the need to trade speed for sails. I'm also new to this. After reading "The Sailors' Handbook","Chapman's Guide" "Your First Sailboat", "A Womans Guide to Sailing"(Long story,good sailing guide but still haven't figured out how genitals have anything to do with sailing)Basically anything that has 'Sailing' in the title. Steve Colgates video for beginers is ok ( others swear by it). I looked at everything from Two grand to Twenty Two grand. All diferent brands. I am learning on a Macgregor 25. It was Two thousand, and My wife and kids love it. Swing keel to go shallow and easy to trailer, these might be terms that will apply to you. Plus, it won't sink ( at least thats what I'm told ) It's a start, Hope yours goes well...
Just like kayaks and motorcycles
I think that you'll find that sailboats are just like kayaks and motorcycles in that there are many kinds for many different purposes. Some serve a couple of purposes pretty well with some compromises, but most are designed for a particular, primary use. Think of a Hobie Cat as a dirt bike or whitewater kayak and a 36 foot cruiser as a full dress Harley or a long-distance, double kayak and you'll get the point.
I think that you'll find that sailboats are just like kayaks and motorcycles in that there are many kinds for many different purposes. Some serve a couple of purposes pretty well with some compromises, but most are designed for a particular, primary use. Think of a Hobie Cat as a dirt bike or whitewater kayak and a 36 foot cruiser as a full dress Harley or a long-distance, double kayak and you'll get the point.
Slight Amendment on Simile
A good cruiser/racer in the mid displacement size is more like a Honda ST1100, Kawi Concours or Triumph 1200. A Harley Dresser is more like a full keel heavy displacement tank. Seems like the guy is not quite ready for the slow pace yet. Damn, he's only 8yrs older than me and I still want my knees dragging or the rails in the water. Go with a smaller (sub 25') swing keel thrill fest. Something beachable and light.
A good cruiser/racer in the mid displacement size is more like a Honda ST1100, Kawi Concours or Triumph 1200. A Harley Dresser is more like a full keel heavy displacement tank. Seems like the guy is not quite ready for the slow pace yet. Damn, he's only 8yrs older than me and I still want my knees dragging or the rails in the water. Go with a smaller (sub 25') swing keel thrill fest. Something beachable and light.
Skim the surface?
"I might be in 30 feet of water one minute and in two feet the next. I need something that is gonna skim the surface with very little draft." Simply put, the only sailcraft that is going to be able to do that is a multi hull, and in your case (size wise) a catamaran. With your "fitness" you will not need an engine, just a couple of paddles, small cats are very light, and when there is no wind, and no waves, they are very easy to paddle. In fact, you can scull the rudders back and forth and move along quite nicely that way. You sound like a thrill seeker to me, and getting out on a trapeze and flying the boat (balancing on one hull) is a sailing experience that everyone should have. That one hull in the water slices through the waves like a destroyer and you are up about 5 to 6 feet over the water holding the whole thing in balance. It is a thrilling ride. However, it is best in warm climes, as it is a wet boat and a wet ride. In North Carolina you would not be able to sail it as much of the year as we can do here in La. and Fl. The J boats are fast and not so wet. If you are looking for excitement, go with a cat. If you are looking for more comfort, go with a swing keel as others have recommended. You will be able to have an engine, and you can bring up the keel for that shallow water, but don't expect to be able to do much sailing without the keel down.
"I might be in 30 feet of water one minute and in two feet the next. I need something that is gonna skim the surface with very little draft." Simply put, the only sailcraft that is going to be able to do that is a multi hull, and in your case (size wise) a catamaran. With your "fitness" you will not need an engine, just a couple of paddles, small cats are very light, and when there is no wind, and no waves, they are very easy to paddle. In fact, you can scull the rudders back and forth and move along quite nicely that way. You sound like a thrill seeker to me, and getting out on a trapeze and flying the boat (balancing on one hull) is a sailing experience that everyone should have. That one hull in the water slices through the waves like a destroyer and you are up about 5 to 6 feet over the water holding the whole thing in balance. It is a thrilling ride. However, it is best in warm climes, as it is a wet boat and a wet ride. In North Carolina you would not be able to sail it as much of the year as we can do here in La. and Fl. The J boats are fast and not so wet. If you are looking for excitement, go with a cat. If you are looking for more comfort, go with a swing keel as others have recommended. You will be able to have an engine, and you can bring up the keel for that shallow water, but don't expect to be able to do much sailing without the keel down.
Give it a try
If everything breaks right I'll launch my boat the middle of next week in a lake about an hour north of the North Carolina line. Come on up and do a sail with me and we'll talk about some of the considerations of choosing a boat. It's real different from riding a bike, but every bit as enjoyable. Racing can get pretty intense and the skills are something you never truly master completely.
If everything breaks right I'll launch my boat the middle of next week in a lake about an hour north of the North Carolina line. Come on up and do a sail with me and we'll talk about some of the considerations of choosing a boat. It's real different from riding a bike, but every bit as enjoyable. Racing can get pretty intense and the skills are something you never truly master completely.
Newbie, Sailing for Dummies... is as good as any book to start your sailing career. Nothing will make a lot of sense until you go out and try it. Then come back and reread the book. You'll understand what the book was talking about. I reread mine every couple of days after I sailed. Soon I was single handing to Catalina.
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