Thinking of Boating in California? It Is A Paradise Whether Power Or Sail

Oct 8
07:23

2010

brant reid

brant reid

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Considering boating in California? You can’t go wrong choosing a power boat or a sailboat. The climate and vast coastline afford year round boating for most avid enthusiasts. These days many are cutting back on extras, and the opportunity to get into the sport has never been better.

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Do your homework and you’ll find classified ads chock full of listings for folks who are trading up to newer,Thinking of Boating in California? It Is A Paradise Whether Power Or Sail  Articles bigger boats or trading down. This creates wonderful chance to select a good boat at good price-- prices not seen in years. A well maintained boat is a great buy now. Scouring the classifieds in newspapers or magazines such as Boating and Yachting; drop bymarinas to see what is for sale. It is also best to get a feel for boat size and handling characteristics when the vessel is in the water. This is a must for first timers. Speaking of first timers, if you are just starting out consider searching for boating lessons in California in classifieds or boating websites.Boating in California offers a variety of watery pleasure which can be enjoyed by both power and sail boater. Adventure awaits all along the jagged coast though the best cruising will be found from San Francisco to San Diego. Hundreds of inviting bays and inlets beg to be explored. Thousands of marinas which dot the shore have many delightful amenities including five-star restaurants providing a relaxing meal at the end of a day’s cruise although a hearty bowl of chowder will often do the trick. Not long ago I enjoyed such an experience when sailing from Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco across the bay to Tiburon. This is boating in California at its sail boating best because of the cool weather, constant breezes and hospitable marinas. San Francisco is on the “short” list to host the next America’s Cup yacht races in 2014 – conditions are that good! But the Bay area is terrific for power boaters, too.As mentioned, boating in California is great year round for all types of boats though sailboats probably enjoy a longer season. Sailors are used to weather extremes and sailing longer distances as they are less reliant on fossil fuels. Regardless of being a “stink potter” or “rag bagger” as captains sometimes allude to themselves a solid knowledge of seamanship, boat handling and adherence to US Coast Guard regulations and directives is a must. Power boaters are often characterized as landlubbers who come to sea unprepared. This is not the case with ardent motor yachters who take safety very seriously. Yes, the intricacies of sail require more training, but you might find motor boaters with a greater knowledge of engine repair and so on. By the way, classes on such technique regularly appear in classified ads and on line. If you have the means and the time you will find boating in California a most passionate pastime!