Advice to a complete newbie to sailing

[markstirling]

I was in a similar position two summers ago. Did a pre-flotilla course at Neilsons in Brighton which was very good. It equipped us very well for two weeks on a boat so we knew what to expect, what all the bits of string do, how to tie-up etc. I also took an RYA dinghy course, but the pre-flotilla thing was much more valuable.

 

[PunterJim]

Thanks to all for your replies. I'm going with a couple of experienced sailors on a 37' boat. I'd like to be able to pull my weight, so am still tempted to do a Competent Crew course if I can find a place.
Thanks again - I wasn't expecting such a helpful response.

 

[sailorman]

you will learn more going on the 37 footer than comp crew

 

[FullCircle]

I have just returned from a Neilson Ionian flotilla, and there only 2 Yotties out of 11 boats. The other crews all 'learned' sailing the week before and were supervised by a lead boat, and one boat had a Neilson Skipper on board for a couple of days. They teach you the basics and to reef early. If you do the Stay and Sail, you spend a week learning, and they test you for Level 1 Keelboat.
As the conditions were not challenging, and no tides/currents to worry about, all the boats got through the week without major mishap. If the forecast is F5, then the flot is declared stormbound, so no one goes anywhere that day.
I was surprised at the level at which people were allowed to take charge of a boat, but they do this week in week out, and not too many bad incidents get reported.

Having said all that, I still think its a better thing to get an RYA course done.

 

[DeeGee]

Jimi's answer + a bit...

Learn the basic knots, bowline, sheetbend, clove-hitch and how to tie a fender on. Distinguish Port and Starboard, know what a sheet and halyard are, and how to identify them when you get on the boat. Understand important terms like 'sheet in', 'ease a bit', 'a bit, I said, not dump the lot, you twit!'. Beyond that, never jump off a boat, only step or dive. Make sure you can handle important jobs like making a gin and tonic whilst the boat is gently heeling.

Almost all of this important stuff is gained on a Competent Crew course, and dont worry about learning to sail, that will happen as a matter of course when you're on holiday. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[PunterJim]

Thank you all!