Newbie from Canada Needs Advice

[Tadman]

Hi Everyone,

I just found this site and i'm hoping i can get some advice!

I have never sailed before,i am 33 yrs old and have always wanted to.

i friend of mine owns a 1979 formosa 51' and is planning a trip down to mexico from vancouver BC. i would like to join him.

He has had the boat for 5 years and has sailed locally but never on a long trip like this.

just would like to hear your comments regarding safety,experience,weather, boat capabilities etc

Thanks
Tadman

[hellosailor]

Tadman, I'd suggest you look at the existing forum threads on seamanship and "bluewater" boats, there's not much that hasn't already been said. And, go out for a day with your friend, then for a weekend or three days, and see how you do or don't take to sailing. Some things simply have to be done not read. Sex, bicycle riding, poker games, fine wine and whiskey. And sailing.

Booklearning and opinions won't give you more than 10% on any of them.

[Pblais]

I have never sailed before,i am 33 yrs old and have always wanted to.

If you took a 3 day trip and maybe a second one you could get the feel of it more. Wanting to do smething is not always like doing it. It's not too late to start sailing. You might feel better about fdoing a long trip if you had some time on the boat first. getting prepared for the trip might even include some sailing lessons and some study. The whole experience feels better when you understand how things work and are able to help and understand what needs to be done. Learning it all after you leave opens up a lot of potential problems if the second day turns sour.

As noted you can find a lot here to read on prbably anything you can imagine and some things you never knew you didn't know.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Tadman,
You're getting some good advice. Get out on the water but also get some sailing books at the public library to keep you busy at night.
Kind regards,
JohnL

[Tadman]

Like i said i've never sailed before....
But here i am in San Diego just sailed down from Vancouver
In a week were heading down Mexico
Thanks for the advice i'm having a great time
Tadman

[Dave the Canuck]

Go Tadman!

Some really nice restaurants in San Diego near the docks. BTW if golf interests you, Torrey Pines beckons!