Hi,

I've always been interested in 'big boat' sailing and never known where to start.

How do i get a go on a yacht and what sort of qualifications (is any?) do i need. Im 16 years old and up for anything (hense I sail a rs600 ) and dream of sailing across the oceans breaking records and stuff 

So go on, how do I get hooked?

Thanks,

Mark.

You seem to be from East Anglia. Not my part of the world but I know there is yacht racing going on from Burnham and W Mersea. So find out what clubs there are and talk to the club secretary, who almost certainly keep a crew wanted/available list. Wander around marinas and talk to people. Put yourself about! Get any experience you can. Once you are into the scene, know people and have a bit of a racing CV, it is not at all hard for a dinghy sailor to get further offers.

Top tip - at 16 you do of course know everything and the old guys at the back of the boat know nothing. Nevertheless, humour them.

Pimp yourself out to anyone that needs a spare crew!

I started by replying to a crew required advert and then got myself a regular slot on a J24.  Once you've got a foot in the door, get talking to people.  Find out who sails what, who needs a hand etc and you'll be getting regular spots on the boats you want to sail.

Also, those long summers that you have at 16 - use them to assist boat deliveries etc.  People always need a hand doing that - great for getting the milage up.