How to Sail Small Boats for Free

Trading work for sailing time might get you out on the water - without paying a dime.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Boat Shoes
• 1 Approved Life Jackets
• Duffel Bags
• Foul Weather Gear
• 1 tube sun block, suntan lotion
• waterproof, insulated warm jackets

1. Visit beaches, harbors and lakes in your area where vendors sell and/or rent small sailboats.
2. Determine which vendors sell boats, rent boats or do both.
3. List prospective sites according to priority: rentals first, sales and rentals second, sales only third.
4. Create a fourth category of vendors from each of the other categories that are not located on the water.
5. Prepare a simple resume which includes any mechanical, assembly or industrial experience. Many of these skills will help make you a desirable employee even without any experience specifically related to boating.
6. Dress neatly, nothing fancy.
7. Start at the top of your list and visit each prospective employer.
8. Tell each manager you want to learn to sail. That knowledge might inspire them to make you a special offer which includes little or no money. It might also put you at the top of their list of potential employees.

Tips & Warnings

• If you miss the summer season, try again a few weeks before Labor Day. Many students go back to school at the end of the summer, when there's still plenty of work to do.
• People who sail small sailboats invariably get wet. Choose larger boats if you prefer sailing dry.