A Newbie’s Guide To Sailboats

Yes, we all love sailing. However, how many of you actually know a great deal about sailboats? No, I am not talking about the engineering principles behind the sailboats. But it is better if you have enough knowledge about each type of boat so that you can delve into the type of sailing that you like the most. There are yachts, skiffs and catamarans to choose from. Depending on the function of the boat, there are three main types of sailboats available today. They are day sailing boats, cruising boats and racing boats.

Day Sailing Boats
You can do everything with day sailing boats. Right from enjoying a calm day on a lake to having an activity-filled thrilling day on a river. There are boats of all kinds of shapes and sizes in day time sailboats. However, as their name suggests, these boats are designed primarily for daytime use. There are no facilities for nighttime or overnight accommodation in these boats. So all you can do is enjoy a day and then you have to make sure that you are back in time. The chief types of day sailing boats include dinghies, catamarans, windsurfers etc.

Cruising Boats
However, spending a weekend out on the sea is the ultimate experience that many people dream about. But you can never do that without proper accommodation and amenities. Well, a boat that has facilities for all these is called a cruising boat. Cruising boats are available in a variety of sizes and usually can be operated by just two people. Cruising boats have all the amenities like a kitchen, a dining space, a bedroom and of course a bathroom. You and your family can be accommodated as cruising boats come in a variety of capacities.

Sailboat Racing
Sailboat racing is the ultimately thrilling sport that can be enjoyed alone or in the company of family and friends. Any type of sailboat can be used for racing. However there are two main types of sailboat racing that is prevalent. The first one is called one-design racing. In this form of sailboat racing, all the boats have to have the same design. This is more of a test for the skill and technique of the racer. On the other hand, the other type of racing called Handicap racing features different types of boats vying for the top spot. This is more of a fun game and the boats can be of varying sizes, speeds etc. So select the type of sail boat that you love and go out there to experience the wind, the sun and the sea gulls.

Is Boating for You?

by Mike Selvon

Boating is one of the more popular hobbies around the world. People of all ages and backgrounds enjoy taking to the water during the hot summer months. They use everything from canoes to yachts to enjoy the water. Some people even live on the water by purchasing a houseboat.

Boats are generally used for several activities. One of the most common is fishing. Wide varieties of boats are appropriate to this activity. If you have a small boat that you can transport, research fishing opportunities before you travel.

Portability is an attractive feature in inflatable boats, dinghies and folding boats. Sitting around the campfire trading fishing stories and singing sea shanties adds a pleasant new dimension to any camping trip, and many campgrounds even offer boats for rent. If you plan to do your fishing closer to home, you may want to invest in an air boat or one of several styles of bass boats.

Another popular boating activity is water sports. Bring a pair of water skis when you go motor boating and you have an automatic afternoon of fun. Sports boats and motor boats provide just the right power for a variety of exciting water sports.

Perhaps sailing is more your style. Imagine relaxing on a classic boat that is powered by the wind, living the same adventure once experienced by pirates, merchant marines and explorers. Sailing requires a good deal of work and practice, but the rewards of this type of boating are immeasurable.

If you live near the water, it is easy to make boating an important part of your life. If you live further from the water, you will have to factor in travel time and expenses when deciding if the boating life is right for you. Many who live in landlocked areas make boating a vacation activity.

Take advantage of opportunities to experience the water without making any sort of commitment. On your next vacation, sign up for boat tours that are offered. Depending on your destination, this may be a swamp tour, glass bottom boat ride, or even a paddle wheeler. Odds are good that if you enjoy these sorts of excursions, you would enjoy piloting your own boat.

In many locations, it is possible to rent boats for a short time. Rent a variety of sizes and styles to get a feel for what works for you. Also, talk to current boat owners either in person or in an online boating forum.

If you decide that you enjoy boating, do not be too quick to buy a boat. Many people who enjoy boating as a hobby decide to buy boats only to discover that the boat owner lifestyle does not work for them.

Before investing in a boat, make sure you are comfortable with the idea of storing and/or trailering the boat. If you can, help out a friend who owns a boat so you have a good idea of what is involved.

Boating is an exciting activity that will whet your appetite for the great outdoors. Your budget and where you live will determine if boating becomes an occasional hobby or a more permanent way of life. One thing is certain: you should head out to the water and discover for yourself how you feel about boating.

About the Author

Boating is all about fun and Mike Selvon's portal will expand your horizon if boating is right for you. Visit us to receive your free gift and leave a comment at our boating blog.