On Oct 21, 5:16*pm, Jere Lull wrote:
On 2008-10-21 18:52:30 -0400, Justin C said:

Unfortunately the only crew places I find are racing, which, though
enjoyable, are not the type of sailing I really want to be doing.

Understand that, but the only better way to learn how to sail and
handle a boat is racing dinks. Some big-boat owners have never been
taught by someone who knew more than they. They can get by, most times,
but....

Use the time onboard to your advantage. Experience will help you find
the *right* boat for you, too.
-
Jere Lull

Excellent advice Jere.

Its easy to know when you screw up in a 16' open boat............
Your in the water ! I dont know if racing is such a great advantage
though. I know tons of racer types.
Ya, they know the name of every deck gizmo and sail tweak but………..
They also typically have their own philosophical, judgment,
temperament, and skill set liabilities.
Typical yellers and screamers who believe they are always right and
must command the boat!
But that’s just my impression. I wont sail with "im an experinced
racer."

My other advice would be sail a small boat around then go get a deck
job on a tug.
Make money AND learn about passage making and “other” ways to sail.
Its pretty easy. Just go get your MMD from the uscg.
There are a couple other things but nothing a couple hundred bucks and
the ability to fill out a few forms.
Plus you can make $250-300/day sweeping floors and cleaning toilets.
Where else can a janitor make that money???
Oh, and tossing lines. Hell get yourself a tattoo too. Pretty cool.
Enjoy life !
Bob