How to Sail Keelboats for Free

Owners of larger sailboats often welcome help from less-experienced people, which can mean a free ticket for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boat Shoes
• Foul Weather Gear
• insulated, waterproof jackets
• sunblock, suntan lotion

1. Locate bodies of water in your area where people race sailboats.

2. Determine which club or clubs sponsor races.

3. Prepare 3 by 5 cards that extol your virtues as crew. If your sailing experience is limited or nonexistent, list attributes such as strength, agility, ability to follow instructions, mechanical ability or a strong work ethic.

4. Visit the clubs you discovered and post your cards on bulletin boards.

5. Look for notices of upcoming races and record the dates and start times.

6. Ask people at the clubs if any regularly scheduled races on evenings or weekends aren't otherwise posted.

7. Show up at the club or nearby marinas where sailboats are kept an hour before a race.

8. Walk up to groups of sailors preparing boats for the race and ask someone to point out the skipper.

9. Ask him or her if the boat could use an extra pair of hands.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to glorify your experience. If you've never sailed before, admit it. State flat-out that you're eager to work and learn.
• Don't expect anyone to explain sailing to you. You'll get instruction on a specific chore. Everything else you learn will come from watching and listening. Larger boats need more crew, most of which sits on the rail.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Who Can Help Sponsored

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on 11/22/2005 In 1983, I decided to crew on a friends 39' Cal on Lake Michigan during 3 days of club racing. It was a lot of yelling and shouting, most of which was unnecessary. It wasn't fun. I have made it a rule: No shouting on my boats. Be prepared.