Have you ever wanted to learn how to sail? Before you get in the boat you may want to brush up on some terminology and other basic aspects that go into sailing.

1. S A I L I N G
T H E B A S I C S O F
R Y A N V I N C O

2. L E A R N T H E
L A N G U A G E
As with any skill, sailing
comes with its own
terminology. Even things
that sound familiar take
on a whole new meaning
in relation to boats and
sailing. For instance,
learning the names
assigned to the different
parts of the boat will
help you understand
your instructors and your
fellow sailing friends.

3. LEARN TO
NAVIGATE
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This is one of the first things
you’ll learn in any sailing
course. Not only is it one of
the most basic areas of study
in sailing, but it’s also the
most important. Without
learning navigation, you won’t
be able to change course or
interpret the meanings of the
buoys and markers in the
water. You’ll also learn how to
identify which vessel has the
right of way and how to set a
course.

4. L E A R N A B O U T
S A F E T Y
There is more to know than
when to wear your life preserver
and where the fire extinguisher
is located. A good safety course
can help you remain calm in
any emergency by training you
on the proper ways to handle
life-threatening events. Learn
what to do if someone falls
overboard, has a heart attack, or
injures themselves.

5. L E A R N H O W T O
H A N D L E Y O U R V E S S E L
R Y A N V I N C O . O R G
While getting the feel for your boat on the open sea
may be comparatively easy, maneuvering in close
quarters is another story altogether. It’s important to
know how to depart and approach a dock, so you can
do so without damaging your boat, the dock, or
another vessel. Otherwise, you could be held liable
for the costs associated with repairing those
damages.

6. LEARN TO TIE KNOTS
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There are a number of reasons it’s
important to learn basic knot tying
skills. While it’s not necessary to
know every knot by heart, you’ll
want to know which knots can be
adjusted and which ones are more
permanent. This will be useful in
docking your boat, raising a flag,
and securing your sails.