Sailing Training
The first thing that instructors would teach in terms of the components of sailing training would be all about sailing safely. You will be taught the safety basics such as how to use a life raft, life jackets, safety harnesses and fire extinguishers (in case of fire) and a lot more tools that you have to use in emergency situations. Most of the instructors will also touch on the proper clothing and shoes to wear during sailing to be prepared for the changing weather conditions and for you to be comfortable at the same time. Part of the course would also be lessons on how the various equipment in the boat work such as cabin lights, battery selector switch, cooker, water pumps, etc. General housekeeping rules will also be discussed.
One of the components of sailing training is also learn the basics in terms of how the boat’s engine works as well as performing routine checks before sailing. Examples of these checks are: checking as well as changing the oil, checking on the water flow to keep the engine cool, changing filters, etc. Basic navigation as well as plotting courses, understanding nautical charts, weather forecasts, and a lot more are all part of the training. Anchoring the boat, hoisting, setting sails and many other procedures need to be taught to you when it comes to sailing. Learning the rules in sailing, specifically understanding the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance is also a very important part of the components of sailing training.
Before starting on sailing training, it is advisable to first determine whether sailing is really for you and whether you are really interested in the said activity. First, you should study the basics---learn what sailing is all about: the types of boat, the parts of the boat, the types of clothing, etc. You can learn through purchasing books on sailing or using the Internet as your resource.
Next is to spend time in the water. You can rent a small boat if you want and let a sailor accompany you. After all, experiencing the activity will help you decide whether you really want to learn how to sail or not. Observe whether you’ll be more comfortable in a smaller boat or a bigger one. Practice capsizing the boat and then get the boat back on track again. Know that boats at one point or another will capsize and experiencing it during “practice” lets you know how to handle it.
If after all these you feel good about sailing, then go ahead and take a course on sailing. Remember though that after finishing the course it will be no use if you don’t practice and really set out to sail. Practice makes perfect and this applies to sailing as well.
Featured Sailing Articles
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