New to Sailing, from Texas

[Trevor1012]

I am looking to buy a boat in the next few years. I have very little (almost none) sailing experience.

I need some help getting involved and learning how to sail. Are there classes available and what is the best way to get involved?

I am also looking to start researching boats so when I am ready to buy I make an informed decision. Which forum category is the best to post under to get feedback on different boat characteristics?

I am looking for a live aboard type boat that is comfortable for weeks at a time.

Thanks for the help

[scook1]

Hey Trevor,
You have come to the right place to find information. There are classes available. Some of the best ones are put on by the ASA or American Sailing Association. You can find them here: Sailing Schools - American Sailing Association
Also, you will be able to find hundreds of results on the which boat posts. At this point it may be better for you to read through some of those. It makes for very interesting reading. Many contributors to the forum are current live aboards. They stay on their boats for months and years. Welcome to the forum! There is some great sailing in Texas.
Spencer

[slomotion]

Welcome aboard.

There are lots of sailing schools in Texas:

Learn to sail Texas - American Sailing Association

You don't have to use these. There are other ways to get time on the water, eg. volunteer as crew for yacht club races. While ASA courses are a good idea, you can acquire basic sailing skills very quickly by spending time on boats with experienced sailors.

[AngusD]

Hi Trevor - I'm an absolute beginner myself, but I've registered to take a basic sailing 101 course in a couple of weeks with the Bay Area Sailing School, near Kemah. It's a two day class teaching the basics of sailing about a 20-ft craft, and includes some mentoring time and a half-day charter using one of their rental crafts in the price of the class. If you're in the Houston area, there are a number of outfits providing a similar course.

[ASA Sailing]

Hi there,

I'm the social media writer for the American Sailing Association. I see that other readers already pointed you our way (thanks guys!). I also wanted to let you know that we just released our new beginner's textbook, "Sailing Made Easy," which you might want to take a look at. It's very accessible, colorful, and even waterproof! But there's no substitute for getting out on the water with a qualified instructor. Fair winds!
Meghan

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Trevor,
Welcome aboard. In addition to the sailing courses and manual recommended I like the book "Start Sailing Right!"
For boat recommendations check the websites after my signature line and the book recommendation.
regards,