This is probably the wrong NG.

Most of the boaters here have outboard powered runabouts.

rec.boats.cruising is almost entirely sail.

A book came across my desk within the last couple of weeks. It is
called "Fast Track to Cruising- How to go from novice to cruise-ready
in seven days". I haven't really looked at it very closesly, as I
thought the premise was preposterous, perhaps even dangerous.

It might be of interest to anybody hoping to become an "instant"
sailor. (Mapquest charting).... It is written by Steve and Doris
Colgate, a couple who run an enterprise known at the Offshore Sailing
School.

The cover claims that the school has turned out more than 100,000 seven
day wonder "Sailing School Graduates". I think I encounter a few of
them everytime
I get underway. :-)

Expect to enjoy many, many years acquiring and improving your skills.
You will never be finished learning, no matter how much you eventually
know.

Chapmans is a must, and USCG Aux or Power and Sail Squadron classes are
very highly recommended for a beginnner. Have fun, and stay safe. :-)