And, following the last paragraph, many people who race want and
appreciate "rail meat" (sitting on the side of the high side of a heeling
monohull) during a race. You don't need much experience. All you
need to do is show up before a race and ask around. It's a great
way to experience bigger boat sailing for free, and you get good
information about sailing techniques.

"Wally" wrote in message
...
Julia wrote:

Thank you. I am reading some of the links you gave me, Doug. I'm
thinking maybe I should take some instruction.

Some instruction can certainly help - try to find out if there's a sailing
school or club near you. I got started with a beginner's course after
doing
a bunch of reading. I think the reading helped a lot in getting the most
out
of the course.

As for what type of boat to go for, it kinda depends on what sort of
sailing
you want to do. That said, a small open type (called a dinghy) is often a
good way to start - they're not too expensive and have the main features
that any sailboat has. An alternative to buying your own is to crew for
someone else, or hire. This is good for getting a better understanding of
what the various boats are like before spending real money on one of your
own.


--
Wally
www.artbywally.com
www.wally.myby.co.uk/music