Great plans, small beginnings (UK)

[KevM]

Hi everyone,

I've been lurking here on and off but am at a point where the knowledge of more experienced sailors would be invaluable. This is a part introduction and part ask for advice, as I am not quite sure where to post this.

I've always loved being on the water and have been on various boats but never fully participated or owned one myself. After years of on-and-off research, I’ve finally arrived at a realistic starting point to pursue my dream.

Initially, I looked at bigger boats and bigger plans, but now I've boiled it down to a more basic approach: the plan is to first introduce my partner to sailing. She likes the idea but worries about seasickness and whether she’ll enjoy it.

I’ve been seeking introductory lessons in Somerset, UK, and contacted various sailing clubs. Unfortunately, one session was canceled due to toxic green-blue algae, and I haven't received responses from others (yet).

These lessons are on lakes and reservoirs, but we’re interested in coastal cruising in the UK and visiting islands before considering a larger 35ft+ boat. If the lessons go well and she enjoys it, I’m thinking about starting with a Hurley 24/70 or something similar.

I'm looking for advice to ensure my partner has a positive first experience. Any recommendations for clubs, courses, or locations to visit to make this introduction smooth and enjoyable would be greatly appreciated!

Many thanks!

[boatman61]

I would suggest sending your lady on one of these for her Competent Crew or maybe Day Skipper depending on how sharp she is..

https://www.yacht-school.co.uk/ladies-only-courses/

Online Theory courses can also be done at home..

https://www.rya.org.uk/training/theory

The Hurley 24/70 is a nice starter boat, stable and safe sailing, it's basically a stretched Hurley 22 giving modest standing headroom below.
I took my H22 from Brixham nonstop to N Spain crossing the Biscay in December so can vouch for the capabilities of this 'proper little ship'.

[KevM]

Originally Posted by boatman61

I would suggest sending your lady on one of these for her Competent Crew or maybe Day Skipper depending on how sharp she is...

Thank you, we're hoping to do the lessons together (I too don't have any certification), we both work odd days and have the Saturdays to do something like this. The theory link is very usefull as well.

Originally Posted by boatman61

The Hurley 24/70 is a nice starter boat...

That's very nice to hear, now it's become most likely it'll be a H24, and they're very affordable too.

Appreciate it

[Tillikum]

First of all, are either of you prone to motion/sea sickness?

[Adelie]

Welcome to CruisersForum!

[KevM]

Originally Posted by Tillikum

First of all, are either of you prone to motion/sea sickness?

Me, no. If I do feel motionsickness I stop reading a book. My partner thinks she does, but the times we've been on boats she was either fine or shook her seasickness in a very short time.

I think we'll be fine, but I don't think anyone is immune. I was told as a kid to focus on the horizon, which has always helped me.

Originally Posted by Adelie

Welcome to CruisersForum!

Thanks!