As the weather starts to turn and the seas get rougher in the winter months, it is always a good idea to be prepared for what the sea might throw at you while enjoying a day out on the boat. Here is our advice when going sailing.
First Steps For Finding Your Sea Legs
Sailing is a much-loved past-time in the UK, with much sadness greeting the necessary cancellation of this year’s Salcombe Regatta. Literally hundreds of people flock to regional boating festivals each year, from the gorgeous beaches in Cornwall to rugged Scottish coasts (The Daily Telegraph). Sailing can seem like an expensive and difficult hobby to start in without a background; however, this is far from the truth. Anyone can pick up sailing, and it can be the perfect way to get off the road during your holiday.
Safety first
Many people give sailing a go without much, if any, experience. This is normally fine as long as you have had someone go through the details with you. At the end of the day everyone wants to have fun and make a good day our of it. Keep your eyes open to anything that might get caught up in the boat or anything that might affect you and your friends (don’t forget to check the weather too!). Check that you have all the equipment you are going to need, like life jackets and methods of alerting people if you get into trouble (and that’s not your phone!), like a bell and a flare. Basically, use your common sense and have fun safely!
Learning about your vessel
Having little knowledge of your vessel and how it works is a primary cause of sailing injury. The most common cause of injury on boats is collision with the boom, as many sailors simply forget that it’s there. Similarly, knowing the workings of your boat can help you both to get good at sailing, and also at little tips and tricks you can do to get the most out of the boat, or get you out of a spot of bother. (Real Buzz)
Join the sailing community
Joining the sailing community will do two things. Firstly, it will help you to get tips on sailing and build a network with like-minded people, always a benefit for any hobby. Secondly, it will give you valuable experience and tips on the regulations of the water – did you know that there is a right of way in the seas, for instance? Having friends and mentors within the sailing world will help you to make the right decisions and master your craft. There are well developed communities in most coastal areas of the UK, and especially in holiday areas, where there will be plenty of tutors at hand.
Sailing is a wonderful past-time that is practised by thousands around the UK. A bustling community exists in person and online, and is one of the most welcoming in the country. Why not try it out next time you’re on holiday with us? With preparation you can find yourself conquering the seas in record time.
To see more things to do on holiday without a car check out our Car Free in South Devon blog.
