Are you longing to travel on the ocean waves? If a sailing trip has been on your bucket list for a while and you’re ready to dive into this type of lifestyle, it’s worth taking the time to find out what it’s like to be out on the water.
Whether you’re sailing for sport, travel or leisure, there’s plenty to discover. To help you find out the essentials, read on.
What makes sailing wonderful?
Sailing will appeal to you for a variety of reasons. Reading about Kenichi Horie can provide inspiration or you might just want to get out on the sea and explore. There are plenty of reasons to hop on a boat. Here are some of the most common:
A Sense of accomplishment
If you are thinking of channelling your inner Ellen MacArthur, you’ll find that sailing can be a rewarding activity. This is the case whether you do it solo or as part of a team, whether you do it competitively or as a hobby.
Community and events
From regattas to boat shows and informal events, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in competitive sailing. These events take place around the world, so it’s possible to travel and see other countries and cultures in the moments when you’re on dry land.
Teamwork
If you’re sailing with others, you can get a real sense of teamwork. You’ll work together for a common goal and bond with your fellow sailors.
Mental and physical challenge
It can be rewarding to move your muscles and sailing is physically challenging. Handling the sails, manoeuvring the boat, and watching pout for the boom as it responds to changing wind and weather conditions all require coordination, strength, and agility.
What to be mindful of
Being out on the water can give you a sense of freedom. However, marine conservation, responsible boating practises, and efforts to protect marine ecosystems are all part of the regular discussions that take place among the sailing community. Sustainable sailing initiatives such as beach clean-ups and marine wildlife conservation projects also play a part in how sailors give back.
Sailing comprises a group of people who conservation resources. They are mindful of water usage, use water saving techniques, and are frequently environmental advocates, raising awareness about protecting the environment.
Where do I begin?
If you’re new to sailing and wondering where to begin, try a sailing holiday as a starting point. This gives you the chance to get first-hand experience of life onboard and allows you to see how these boats work.
Plus, you get to explore all that different destinations have to offer. You can visit local towns, villages and cities before getting back on the boat and setting off further along the coast or simply meander along the shore.
Whether you set sail with loved ones or join a flotilla or sailing club, the shared experience of living on a boat is the perfect way to build a bond with others.
