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Sailing 101: What to Expect from Your First Sailing Lesson

Taking your first step into the world of sailing is an exciting and rewarding adventure. If you’ve been dreaming of feeling the wind in your sails and exploring the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, we’re here to help make your first sailing lesson both enjoyable and unforgettable. At LTD “Living the Dream” Sailing School in Grenada, we specialize in teaching beginners the art of sailing, no prior experience required. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you book your first lesson with us.

“I had an absolute blast while learning tons of new skills. The team at LTD made every step of the course approachable and fun. I would 10/10 recommend LTD to any sailors looking to learn. I would love to return someday to continue my learning. PS Ron is the best!”

Step 1: Booking Your Lesson

Booking your sailing lesson with LTD Sailing School is a breeze! Simply reach out to us through our website or give us a call. You can reach our booking agent, Dionna, at any time during office hours to get your questions answered. She will work with you to find a schedule that fits your needs, whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a couple’s getaway, or a family experience. We’ll also guide you in selecting the right course for your goals, from introductory lessons to certification programs. Dionna is an expert traveler as well. Questions about how to get to Grenada? Give her a call!

“I got everything I hoped for at the end of this course. I learned a lot about boat maintenance, navigation, sailing, general leadership from Joe. After this I feel confident in charting/ skippering a boat myself. The Instruction, environment and organization all contributed to making this experience perfection.”

Step 2: Preparing for Your Lesson

Before your first day on the water, we’ll send you all the information you need to feel prepared. Here are a few tips to get you started:

  • What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, flip flops, and a reusable water bottle are essentials. Dress comfortably in lightweight, quick-drying clothes.
  • What We Provide: We’ll supply everything else, including the boat, safety gear, and expert instruction.
  • Mindset: No prior experience is necessary. All you need is a willingness to learn and a sense of adventure.
  • Pre-Study: We recommend getting the textbooks and cracking them open as soon as possible. This will maximize your time on the water. We will also send a few tricks, hints and resources for some of the trickier concepts as we move closer to your start date.
“Incredibly patient instructor gave balance of ensuring we learn the skills and also having fun.”

Step 3: Getting Started on Day One

Your first lesson begins with a warm welcome from our certified instructors, who will ensure you feel at ease. We’ll start with a short onshore session where you’ll learn the basics, including:

  • Understanding key sailing terms like “port,” “starboard,” and “tacking.”
  • Safety protocols to keep you confident and secure on the water.
  • The parts of the boat and their functions.

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to hit the water! Under the guidance of your instructor, you’ll practice:

  • Hoisting and trimming the sails.
  • Steering the boat and understanding wind direction.
  • Basic navigation and teamwork on the water.
“I was a complete beginner when starting this course. Ron was such a positive and knowledgeable instructor who made sure to connect book learning with hands on leanring, over and over until I was at mastery. As a female solo traveler, I instantly felt safe. Ron was constantly checking on my physical and mental health as we progressed through the course as weather conditions changed, and achieved each level of mastery. I’m looking forward to planning my next adventure with Ron and LTD. Thank you!”

Step 4: Gaining Confidence on the Water

Throughout the lesson, your instructor will tailor the experience to your pace and comfort level. By the end of your first session, you’ll have a solid understanding of the fundamentals and a newfound confidence in your abilities.

“Kira was an absolutely amazing instructor! Her balance of practical application and in class lecture was a great combo for learning. With her expertise, I have built so much knowledge and confidence in my skills as a sailor and she is also just phenomenal human being.”

Step 5: Planning Your Next Steps

Once you’ve completed your first lesson, the possibilities are endless! Whether you want to take additional courses to earn an ASA certification or book a day of sailing to practice your skills, we’re here to support your journey.

“I really liked our instructor Miles and the 46ft boat. Miles did a great job in his style of teaching and amount I learned. We had a great crew and Instructor which made the course a great experience.”

Why Choose LTD Sailing School?

Located in the heart of the Caribbean, LTD Sailing School offers world-class instruction in one of the most beautiful sailing destinations on Earth. Our experienced instructors, well-equipped boats, and personalized approach make us the ideal choice for your sailing education.

So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge and start your sailing adventure today. Book your first lesson with LTD “Living the Dream” Sailing School and experience the joy of sailing in Grenada. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!

“I learned a ton during my sailing lessons. Nico helped me have confident in being able to charter future boats and eventually buy my own boats.”

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