I signed up for a level 1 sailing course with SMU sailing club not knowing what to expect. All I know was I would be sailing on a Pico at the SAF Yatch Club in Sembawang for 3 days. I needed to pass a practical and theory test so as to obtain an international sailing license. I always wanted to sail and this was my opportunity.

The faithful day arrived and I drove down to the club. Tip for drivers, parking is free! And there are plenty of lots to choose from. So for the first time, I met my sail mates and sail instructor, Jeremy. He appeared in a relaxed long blue sleeve shirt and dived straight into the theory of sailing. For a moment, I thought we were not going out to sea, my heart dropped until he told us that he didn’t want to waste too much time on theory. I was relieved and paid close attention to his teachings on the theories and physic of the wind and how it affects the sailboat. I also learned to tie different types of knots that are essential to sailing. My personal favorite, the figure of 8, because it was the easiest! We learned the parts and functions of the sailboat and how to rig it. It was confusing at first but after 3 days of rigging it up and down, the boat became my best friend. I also learned 3 points of sails, ‘close-hauled’, ‘beam reach’ and ‘on the run’. Although the theory of wind and sail just didn’t make much sense to me at first, he did later when I hit the water!

I would say sailing was not as easy as I expected. It was challenging and fun! Imagine trying to control something 3 or 4 times taller than you, with no brakes. It was definitely a completely new experience for me. The adventure began once my boat hits the water. To me, it was like a game between the wind, waves, sailboat and me. And to enjoy and ‘win’ the game, I had to stay on board and not capsize. My sailing instructor helped equip me with sailing techniques and skills. Some examples would be the three ‘points of sails’, tacking and gybing, ‘man over-board’ maneuvers, heaving-to and capsizing drills. Initially, I didn’t have much confidence and strength when learning. But with some determination, intensive training from my instructor and his excellent helpers, and much encouragement from my fantastic sailor friends, I passed the test!

After 3 days of intensive training. The feeling was awfully awesome! I definitely did not regret my decision on learning sailing at the SAF yatch club. It was THE experience for me and would be for anyone who loves the sun and sea.

At the end of the day, I brought home a dinghy proficiency sailing level 1 license, great friends, a total body work-out and fabulous sunburn.

Worth it? Totally.