Starting Out in Chicago

[ashdec87]

Has anyone rented boats from the Northwestern Sailing center? They have mostly small boats (hobie cats, etc), but a seasonal membership can get unlimited rentals. That's pretty tempting for someone on a budget.. My biggest issue about helping to crew a racing boat is that I cant take out friends and family, which is the biggest reason I want to sail..

thoughts?

[ashdec87]

Well I signed up for the sailing course with sailchicago. First week of May so I shall be on the water soon!

[Del628]

This is a great post with great replies!!

[MSN-Travelers]

Hi Ash ...

You might get detailed, Chicago local, advice over at Anything Sailing - http://www.anything-sailing.com/

They have an active group of users that are based in the greater Chicago area and points around the south end of Lake Michigan.

Many of the suggestions about local Yacht Clubs in the Chicago area aren't for the social aspects. All of these clubs sponsor full schedules of sailboat racing during the season. Often these schedules include a "fun" race series as well as a competitive series. Skippers are always looking for crew.
Our yacht club, in Milwaukee, sponsors a Crew Search event every Spring designed to bring people like you together with skippers in search of new sailors. I understand your desire to take out friends `n family but being a part of a race crew provided valuable experience.

I learned the basics with the University of Wisconsin - Madison sailing club, gained experience racing with South Shore Yacht Club, eventual bought my own boat and then upgrade to the current family cruiser. Still race (crew) in Milwaukee aboard a `82 Pearson Flyer and cruise to Chicago. Official launch time arrives here at the end of the month.


Welcome to sailing!

Paul

[ashdec87]

thanks, I'll check it out!