Chicago

[Dreamofsailing]

Anybody body got any off season things going on? Looking to immerse my self in sailing culture...

[scook1]

Hey Dream,
Normally not a lot going on in the winter in Chicago. Sailing wise that is. Welcome,
Spencer

[6string]

Strictly Sail is coming in January. Some of the lakes in Wisconsin have ice on them with out the snow. You can sail on ice, Otherwise head down to where the boats are stored. There will be somebody working on a boat that could use a hand. There is a lot to be learned from a boat out of water, and the guy working on it.

Jeff
SV/Mezzaluna

[Dreamofsailing]

Originally Posted by 6string

Strictly Sail is coming in January. Some of the lakes in Wisconsin have ice on them with out the snow. You can sail on ice, Otherwise head down to where the boats are stored. There will be somebody working on a boat that could use a hand. There is a lot to be learned from a boat out of water, and the guy working on it.

Jeff
SV/Mezzaluna

Thanks...I like the sound of both of those!

[svHannabel]

I'll second the recommendation for Strictly Sail Chicago. While it's totally commerciallized and features mostly high-priced new production boats, it's still a nice resprite from the cold Great Lakes winter. Plus there are tons of interesting seminars to attend, though keep in mind that all seminar presenters have a booth where they are selling something at the show.

[BryanPHaas]

Strictly Sail is the highlight of the winter here in Chicago; lots of pretty things too look at, and even a few you might be able to afford!

Some yacht clubs have informal gatherings as they look for new members for the coming season, and very informal clubs like the Poor Mans Yacht Club typically will have bar nights.

The PMYC is a great way to meet other boaters in the area, talk about all things sailing, and is absurdly cheap. 30$ per year or so....
You can meet them at strictly sail , and see if you want to join them for beers later.

With regards to working on a boat; I'll pay you in beer :-D

Anyone in the yards can always use a hand. Meet people on forums like this; or if you are bold you can always just show up. Try places like Canal Street, Crowleys, Chicago Yacht Yard, etc....

Welcome to the club!!

[Dreamofsailing]

I'll gladly work for beer! Lol
Thanks for these nuggets of wisdom! I will definately check out the PMYC's.

[medstud]

Great thread. I am moving to the Chicago area this summer. I have the bug for sailing, but I am very green. Thanks for posting all the advice.