I Have to Learn What?!?

 

In the infancy that is my research, I've come to the conclusion that all of you sailors are crazy!! :)
And I dig that about you (that might be a movie line reference I think - Wedding Crashers perhaps?) The basic skills required to truly set off on your own safely, and as inexpensively as possible are impressive.  I'm going to list some of the skills I think are helpful if not necessary.

Sailing - If I can't do this then I might as well just sit in a houseboat somewhere
Small Engine Repair - dinghy motor not working, and my poor arms are too soar to paddle!
Diesel Engine Repair - I know I wanna sail, but sometimes you just have to have the motor right?
Fiberglass/wood repair/upkeep - Have to keep your house clean and safe right?
Small appliance repair - Not a must, but if you have a fridge or other appliances, you want them working
Electrical systems work - Want those solar panels, wind generator, boat electronics doing their job
Navigation - Sure the GPS will get you there, or will it.. What if you have to figure it out on your own?
Sail/Canvas Repair - You need sails to move or so I'm told :)  If they are ripped they need fixed!
VHF Radio - Need to be able to use one properly
Anchoring - I want to sleep relatively soundly if I'm on the hook!
Open Water Swimming - might need to get out there and check your boat at some point.

And lastly - A desire for adventure, and exploration!

I'm sure the people on the water now are looking at this list and laughing at everything that is missing!  I'm on dirt - give me a break :)  But honestly, it's incredible how little the modern American - or anybody else - knows how to do on their own. 

So over the next couple of years I hope to add quite a few of these skills to my knowledge base, and show my journey to learn them through this blog.  Feel free at any point to add to this most-definitely incomplete list!

Good Sailing to You and Yours!

Tux