Utterly new to sailing, am in UK, where do I start?

[Niall leslie]

You seem to have received basically good and sensible replies.
My 2 pennies worth would be to get a little experience somehow and preferably training as appropriate before buying a boat because that process will give you a good idea of what might be appropriate to start with but if you must go ahead anyway because of desire etc.ASAP then make your offer ' subject to survey and inspections ' then get the boat inspected by a qualified surveyor etc. and any found issues worked out in the deal before parting with any money except for the deposit.
Where in Scotland are you and where proposing to keep the eventual boat - I grew up sailing on the west coast and have also enjoyed some cruising there in recent years.
Cheers,
Niall.

[JustinT]

Thanks for the good advice.
I've booked level 2 powerboat (the only course available around here)
And RYA Marine Radio (SRC) course.
Hopefully that is enough to be going on with.

[conachair]

Originally Posted by JustinT

Thanks for the good advice.
I've booked level 2 powerboat (the only course available around here)
And RYA Marine Radio (SRC) course.
Hopefully that is enough to be going on with.

Probably worth asking on here as well, UK based forum with a fair few from up your neck of the woods >>
https://forums.ybw.com/index.php?for...cuttlebutt.16/

[boatman61]

Originally Posted by JustinT

Thanks for the good advice.
I've booked level 2 powerboat (the only course available around here)
And RYA Marine Radio (SRC) course.
Hopefully that is enough to be going on with.

Its a decent enough start..
You will learn about the engine basics and how to operate your boat under power.. this will get you out into open water where you can play with your sails safely and put some of your book learning to the test.
Sailing is pretty much common sense, don't over think it.

[JustinT]

My boat is on a big Loch, good place to practice. Can get to the sea when I'm more experienced.