While there are many ways to experience the thrill of traveling, sailing is probably one of the most unique and exhilarating ways of doing just that. Sailing may be something that you’ve seen other people do or perhaps you may have even gotten a chance to be a passenger on a sailing vessel, but chances are you haven’t had the opportunity to actually learn how to operate one. If that is the case, then sailing lessons are the perfect way to finally learn how to partake in this thrilling activity. Not only will you learn how to sail, but you’ll also take with you a valuable lifelong skill that can literally take you anywhere in the world.
Most sailing schools offer their classes in locations that are attractive to sailing – places such as the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Bahamas. These locations provide ideal conditions for sailing while allowing beginning sailors the opportunity to take in the abundant beauty that the islands offer while they learn. For those who want to be closer to home, sailing lessons are also offered in most coastal locations in the continental U.S. – with locations ranging from Chesapeake Bay to Annapolis and the Great Lakes. Most schools offering sailing lessons include hotel accommodations as part of an overall course package.
The courses offered by most schools include basic fundamentals that prepare novices for sailing. After completing the beginner courses, participants gain the opportunity to try other, more demanding courses involving coastal navigation, ocean passage-making and learning how to sail the various types of sailing vessels. Students also get the opportunity to learn how to prepare for bareboat cruises. These cruises require those who hire the boat to provide their own crew and provisions for the voyage, as opposed to having such provided for them. Some schools also offer women-only sailing and courses tailored for couples and families.
The costs for most sailing lessons are not as expensive as one may be led to believe. Basic sailing lessons can be taken for under $1000, with some schools offering basic courses for as low as $250. The more demanding courses that focus on particular areas of sailing are somewhat more expensive – these courses can range from $2000 to $3000. Keep in mind that these costs include hotel and in some cases, travel accommodations.
When completing these sailing lessons, you’ll also be able to receive certification from the school that you have chosen for taking lessons. Some of these schools offer the opportunity to receive certification from US SAILING, the national governing body of the sport of sailing. A select number of schools offer sailing certification through courses following the Royal Yachting Association’s training system. Having these certifications under your belt can also make it much easier to find employment in job fields related to sailing.
If you’re new to sailing, have a passion for sailing and want to learn as much about it as possible, or if you’re a rusty sailor who wants a refresher, sailing lessons are a great way of getting into the sport or learning more about it. Very few schools give you the opportunity of learning in amazing locales and very few give you skills can lead you on the path of adventure.