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Smooth Sailing: Adventures, Tips, and Insights for Sailing Enthusiasts


Windsurfing Basics Explained: Understanding Wind, Sail Trim, and Board Control!
Windsurfing is a brilliant water sport that combines the balance of surfing with the technical skill of sailing. You stand on a board and steer by tilting a sail ( there is no rudder or tiller on a windsurfer). The sail and mast are attached to the board by a universal joint. Learning how to windsurf requires a basic grasp of balance and wind direction. It is a direct, exciting way to feel the water. It is easier to learn how to sail on a small sailboat first, and then lear

Rick's Small Sailboats
Feb 106 min read


The Secret to Staying Put: Choosing the Right Anchor Size!
Imagine this. You are out on a beautiful Florida afternoon. The sun feels warm on your face. You drop your hook in a quiet cove to eat lunch. Suddenly, the wind picks up. Your boat starts sliding toward the jagged rocks. Your heart jumps. This scary moment can happen for a number of reasons. Could be the wrong anchor for the type of bottom. The bottom could be mud, sand, gravel, reef, grass, etc. Could be anchor and chain are too light for your boat, could be not enough sc

Rick's Small Sailboats
Jan 67 min read


How Hull Shapes Decide Your Ride in Rough Water: A Guide for Small Sailboats!
The hull beneath your waterline is the single most important factor determining your comfort and control when the waves start building. It’s a simple truth: if you plan to venture out when the lake or coastline gets feisty, you need a hull that can handle it. Understanding how hull geometry influences lift, stability, and ride quality is crucial before you purchase your next sailboat. Let's dive into the core differences and find out what type of hull handles rough water the

Rick's Small Sailboats
Dec 17, 20255 min read


Speed Showdown: Why Catamarans Outpace Monohulls in Calm Waters!
Picture this: two boats gliding across glassy water — one sleek and single-hulled, the other wide and twin-hulled. The catamaran surges ahead, leaving the monohull trailing in its wake (though not all of them! Ever tried the 49er sailboat? We’ll come to that!) You might wonder — are catamarans faster than monohulls ? The short answer is yes, especially in calm conditions where hydrodynamics take the spotlight. So, why not take a wider viewpoint of the same? Here’s to knowin
captrunaground
Nov 20, 20254 min read


Weta Regatta Racing for Beginners: What to Expect at Your First Regatta!
How about picturing - arriving at your first Weta Regatta boat race, the sun glinting off the water, sailboats buzzing around, and the air thick with excitement. You’re holding onto your Weta Regatta boat, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. What should you expect? How do you fit in? This guide will walk you through the race day, from rules to prep, so you can step onto the water confidently. If you’re new to racing, especially with a trailerable sailboat like the Weta
captrunaground
Oct 29, 20253 min read


What is Coastal Navigation? A Beginner’s Guide for Small Sailboat Owners
Is navigating a small, trailerable sailboat near the shore really that different from offshore sailing? Absolutely! Understanding what coastal navigation is is your first step to safe, confident coastal cruising, especially when you’re handling a compact 16-20 ft sailboat. If you’re new to sailing or curious about coastal waters, a coastal navigation class can be a game changer for your skills and safety. In this post, we will break down the details for you right away - What
captrunaground
Oct 8, 20253 min read


Unveiling the Hidden Power of Sail Lift
Imagine holding a sail up like an airplane wing, standing on its side. Weird as it sounds, that’s exactly how it works, sails ‘lift’ the...
captrunaground
Sep 24, 20253 min read


Types of Sailing Boats for Engine-Free Adventures: Dinghies, Beachcats & Beyond
Sailing without the hum of an engine brings a sense of peace that’s hard to match. For those who crave simplicity, control, and a pure...
captrunaground
Aug 8, 20253 min read


Do Sailboats Have Engines? Why Simpler, Engine-Free Boats Make Sense
sailboat work Many beginners are curious about if sailboats need motors to function. While some larger sailboats include auxiliary...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Jul 13, 20252 min read


Is Sailing Hard? Learn Why the Right Boat, Training & Support Change Everything
Many people ask, “Is sailing difficult?” The short answer-it can be. Without proper guidance, using the wrong type of sailboat, and...
acsupport5
Jun 10, 20254 min read


Why Are Low Head Dams Dangerous to Small Boats? 5 Ways to Stay Protected
Low head dams may look harmless, but they create extremely dangerous hydraulic currents that can trap and overturn small boats. If you’ve...
acsupport5
May 14, 20253 min read


What to Look for When Buying a Used Boat: A Clear-Cut Guide
used boats for sale by dealer Buying a used boat should be exciting-not stressful. But to keep things smooth, it’s important to know what...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Apr 15, 20253 min read


Sailing Solo: The Best Small Sail Boats for One-Person Adventures
Sailing alone is one of the most freeing experiences you can have. Just you, the wind, and the open water don’t get much better than...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Mar 12, 20254 min read


Boating License: Why Learning the Rules Improves Your Sailing Experience?
If you’ve ever envisioned gliding effortlessly across open waters, knowing the International Regulations for Prevention Collisions at Sea...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Feb 9, 20253 min read


What Should You Do If Your Small Open Boat Capsizes: Stay Calm & Survive?
Small open boats, like the ones used for sailing or casual outings, can be a lot of fun, but they can flip over if you get a sudden strong gust of wind. Flipping or capsizing can usually be avoided by promptly easing or releasing the main sheet as soon as you feel the gust of wind and notice the boat heeling more than normal. The main sheet is the name for the rope or line that you use to adjust the angle of the main sail to the wind. What should you do if your small open

Rick's Small Sailboats
Jan 6, 20253 min read


Why Small Sailboats Offer Big Value for Budget-Conscious Sailors?
Sailing is often perceived as a sport for the elite, associated with high costs and luxury yachts. However, this isn’t necessarily the...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Dec 9, 20243 min read


How Fast Can a Sailboat Go? Unlock Speed Secrets for Every Sailor?
If you've ever wondered how fast can a sailboat go, the answer depends on several factors, such as the type of hull, wind speed, and boat...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Dec 9, 20243 min read


Sail the Open Ocean with the Best Sailboats Available
Owning a sailboat can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences, particularly when it comes to exploring vast open waters. For many...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Nov 20, 20242 min read


Sleek and Efficient: The Joy of Owning a Small Catamaran Sailboat
Sailing is an activity that brings joy, freedom, and excitement. For many, a small catamaran sailboat is the perfect way to experience...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Nov 20, 20243 min read


Catch the Wave: Discover Your Perfect Beachcat Boat
Are you dreaming of sailing across the water, feeling the wind in your hair? Beach cat boats are a fantastic way to make that dream a...

Rick's Small Sailboats
Oct 8, 20243 min read
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