How to Sail as a Beginner

Sailing can be a fun and satisfying activity whether you dream of sailing around the world someday or just enjoying the water and sky. It takes time and practice to become a skilled sailor, but it is definitely worth it as the popularity of the sport attests.

Instructions

1. Dress in warm and water resistant attire and wear a life jacket.

2. Learn the parts of a sailboat. For example, you will need to identify that the boom is the horizontal bar and the mast is the large vertical bar. You should know that the main sail is the large sail and the halyard is the rope for raising and lowering the sail.

3. Learn the basic rules of sailing. For instance, when sailing, you give way to vessels at anchor. You will also need to know that the port side is on your left and the starboard side is on your right.

4. Know the direction that the wind is blowing your boat. The sails will carry the boat in any direction except into the wind. You should try to keep your boat at a 45-degree angle to the wind.

5. Learn the points of sail. These refer to the relation of the boat to the wind. For example, if the boat is straight into the wind it is "in irons." When the wind is behind the boat, the proper term is "running."

6. Practice basic maneuvers. These include launching, sailing and turning the sailboat. Turning by tacking is when you push the tiller away from you. When the wind is behind you, you turn by jibing and pull the tiller towards you.

7. Practice tying a cleat knot so that your boat stays secure.

Tips & Warnings

• You should take a class before going out on your own.

• Go sailing with friends.

• Learn how to right a tipped-over boat.

• Stay clear of the boom, especially when the boat is coming about (changing direction). The moving boom can hit you in the head or knock you out of the boat.