Keep an eye on the weather. Get a handheld marine/weather radio and check the forecast before you go out. Stay close to your home port. Wear your life vest and have a good time. The Daysailor should handle just fine in typical fair weather conditions.I just bought an O'Day Daysailer in November. I live in Buffalo NY and plan to try it out on Lake Erie. From this conversation I'm thinking that I'm a little too nieve(sp?). I can sail alittle but not much experience. Anyone have any advice for me?