First time on a Sailboat: The Diary of a First Time Sailor

Katie has never sailed before and decided to take the plunge and jump on a Rubicon 3 sailing week. She was nervous, unsure but took the plunge. Each of the five days, we’ll post her blog to see what it is like for her. 

When I decided to go on a 5 day sailing trip around The Solent with Rubicon 3 I was really apprehensive. For someone who has never sailed before, it was a massive leap into the unknown. What would it be like, who else would be on board… would I vomit? I decided to stop worrying and just go for it. After all, as Bruce said, what’s the worst that could happen? I don’t know why he laughed after that….

I got to the marina, where it’s pretty hard to miss Starling, all bright pink and purple, when just about every other boat is white! I climbed aboard, full of nerves…

Emily, our skipper, immediately was so welcoming though and had me laughing in seconds.

She had us all give introductions, discussing where we had all come from, our sailing experience and a ‘WOW’ fact or feature about ourselves – a great way to find out a bit more about each other and who we are going to be sailing alongside.

After a cup of tea, we were all learning about the boat, finding out where everything was, what it’s called and general safety information. Every second, I could feel the nerves being replaced with excitement. It is quite an amazing environment.

As we cast off the lines, Emily and Kim (the first mate) guided me through everything and before I knew it I was hoisting sails, tying knots and helming a round the world expedition yacht (that’s steering to you and me!)

We finished day one in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight. What a day. I am exhausted, exhilarated and excited. Roll on day two… but first some serious sleep!

Katie.