I'd like to try bare-boat sailing, probably in the BVI since I've been there a number of times. My sailing experience is almost nil; I borrowed a relatives 25 footer and took some 10-12 mile trips a few times, but that was 20 years ago. But I'm landlocked at home and am worried about harbor frequencies and where you can/can't anchor, using services at ports, buying stores, etc. I have no problem with reading charts as I was in the Navy for quite a few years. So do I need to read something or do you think I need to take some kind of lessons when I get there? What's the best course to have a pleasant week or so???

Hi, <BR> <BR>Try doing a text search on "sailing" because I know this had been addressed previously. Eva has some great opinions on the subject too! If you find my last post under "sailing lessons" you'll find my advice for taking a "learn to sail vacation" in the BVI's through Sea Dog Sailing, whose website is www.seadogsailing.com. <BR> <BR>Have fun!

Hi Alby! Check out the BVI forum at www.traveltalkonline.com. Lots of helpful bareboaters over there and lots of trip reports. Good luck!

Sounds like you need to rent a boat with a captain or either take a safe boating class before you go with the power squadron or coast guard auxilliary. Here is a website that has boating class information throughout the US, plus has a charter/bareboat travel company with or without a skipper.<BR><BR>http://www.boatus.com/<BR><BR>

Hi Alby. Just got back from a bareboat sail in the BVI last night, and can assure you there is no better place for a novice sailor to test his or her sea legs (OK, the weather conditions last week were a bit more advanced.... but that's another story).<BR><BR>There are lots of ways to get your feet wet. First, you can take a sanctioned learn-to-cruise course, home or in the islands. Or you can charter with a full crew -- with the express desire of learning as much as possible. Or you can charter with a skipper, for the entire trip or for a few days to gain your confidence (you are usually required to pay a daily fee, plus provide a private stateroom and meals). Or you can informally gain more sailing experience by sailing OPBs (Other People's Boats) and chartering with experienced friends.<BR><BR>Your charter company usually has people on staff who are able to assess your skills and make a recommendation. They are a great resource, but remember that their first priority is to protect the very expensive boats which have been entrusted in their care. Also, they will brief you about all of your concerns -- provisioning, places to anchor/moor, suggested itineraries, etc.