Basic Sailing Tips to Remember

At SunRise Sail, we have a passion for sailing and we love instilling that passion in others. We feel that our job is to help you master the basics of sailing so that you can safely enjoy your time on the water. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or just getting your feet wet, we feel that you can learn from this quick review of basic sailing tips.

Become Familiar With Sailing

• For your first time, sail in calm and uncrowded waters. Practicing in calm waters with little traffic will increase your confidence and give you an opportunity to get used to your boat.
  
  
• Be aware of tide, wind and weather conditions. Being a sailor means always being prepared. Check the weather forecast so you can be prepared for whatever the weather might bring. Be sure to bring along adequate provisions, clothing and basic weather gear as needed. 
  
  
• Sail control is key.  Knowing how to take advantage of the various wind and water conditions is the mark of an excellent sailor. In general, sails should be relatively flat when the wind is either very light or very strong, and full when there is a moderate wind. 

Get To Know Your Boat

• Choose a boat with all lines lead to the cockpit when learning how to sail. Fewer trips on deck make learning to sail less difficult, especially for the older folks.
  
  
• Begin sailing with only one sail for simplicity. A boat that’s rigged with two sails can easily be sailed using only one sail. Learning sailing basics with the main can be easier and less complicated.
  
  
• Respect the boom.  To avoid a bump to the head, or even worse, being knocked overboard, one of the most important beginner sailing tips to always remember for both passengers and crew is to be conscious and respectful of the boom at all times. 

Learn The Procedures

• Always follow sailing basics for safety. No matter what your level of experience is, there are certain sailing basics that should always be followed. These include always telling someone before you go out on the water, always bringing a floatation device and knowing in advance how to swim. 
  
  
• Practice capsizing. While this may seem like an odd tip to suggest, we feel that it’s much better to practice how to handle a capsized sailboat in a controlled environment. We learn best from experience, and the valuable sailing basics you’ll pick up from going through a test-capsize in a small boat will serve you well in the event of a real-life one.
  
• Learn basic sailing terms. Before you venture out on your first trip, be sure to acquaint yourself with basic sailing terms. Make sure you know the difference between port, starboard, windward, leeward and other important concepts.

Practice Makes Perfect

Learning to sail from someone who has experience is crucial. SunRise Sailing offers affordable and comprehensive sailing lessons on Lake Lanier. Our instructors are ASA certified and are committed to helping you earn your ASA Basic KeelBoat 101 certification. Our classes and schedules are flexible so call on SunRise Sail today! 770-271-7444