Ever dreamed of sailing away to exotic shores? In a few easy steps you could be well on your way. To help convince you, we’ve enlisted solo circumnavigator and RNLI Governor Jeanne Socrates

BENEFITS OF CRUISING

Explore the UK, Republic of Ireland and see the world.
• Take up a mentally challenging
outdoor sport, accessible to all.
• Meet like-minded people from
different backgrounds.
• Feel free and get satisfaction from
self-reliance.
• Get close to nature, with no one
else around.
• Enjoy the home comforts of an
offshore sailboat, with a shower
and space to cook.

Sailing’s for everyone – all ages, couples, even families’

... so says Jeanne Socrates, who is the oldest woman (70) to solo circumnavigate the world. She’s originally from London, but now you’re more likely to find her exploring the world in her 12m yacht Nereida. So how do you get started? It’s never too late There’s hope for all of us – Jeanne was a latecomer to sailing, having taken it up when she was nearing retirement. Age isn’t a barrier,
as long as you’re reasonably fit, well and up for a challenge. Jeanne got hooked on cruising at an RYA Competent Crew course in the Solent. ‘There was so much more to sailing than I thought. So many things to learn. I was taken.’ Enjoy the training Whether you’ve never set foot in a yacht before, whether you’re a lapsed sailor or day-tripper, Jeanne recommends that a competent crew course is a good place to start. The handson training gives you the experience of living onboard for 5 days, either in one block or at weekends, or you could try a shorter taster course. You’ll also meet up with crew from different backgrounds. Start off close to home The UK and Republic of Ireland are fantastic places for learning to sail, with super training courses and miles and miles of coastline to explore. ‘What’s more,’ adds Jeanne, ‘we’ve got all the hazards – tides, rocks, shipping lanes – all the skills you need to learn for going further afield.’ If you’re miles from the coast, there are plenty of clubs that sail on lakes, to give it a try.

Keep within your budget
If you thought the cruising lifestyle is beyond your budget, you may be surprised. You can hire foul-weather gear rather than buy it, or search second-hand shops for bargains. If you do love it and decide you want a boat, there are options, as Jeanne stresses: ‘It doesn’t have to be brand spanking new. A lot of people buy a second-hand boat and do it up, bit by bit.’ When Jeanne was learning, she took advantage of cheaper weekend sessions in Winter. If you haven’t got a boat, the good news is that those with yachts are often looking for crew. Don’t give up the day job Make the most of long holidays with cruising holidays – with or without kids – or see if a sabbatical is an option. Jeanne even meets some people who manage to hold down a job, working remotely online. If this isn’t an option, be aware that you won’t meet many cruisers around the world who regret escaping the rat race. What you need to give it a go Training, at RYA.org.uk or sailing.ie. A safety plan. Find out the boat’s man overboard recovery plan and practise it. In Jeanne’s words: ‘Think of the worst possible scenario and be ready for it.’ Correct safety equipment including a lifejacket with harness (keep it on when in your tender) and a means of calling for help. Weather forecast checks and tide times. Look before you go but make sure you know how to get up-to-date information while you are afloat as well. Someone ashore who knows where you are going and who to call if you don’t return on time.
Words: Bethany Hope | Photos: RNLI/Nigel Millard

FIND OUT MORE

• RNLI.org/RespectTheWater
• Sailing.ie
• RYA.org.uk
• Sailing.org/disabled
• www.rya.org.uk/sailability
• svnereida.com for more on Jeanne