Sailing and feeling like you are 'capable'

I'm fortunate in that when I was a child I spent time in the Malborough Sounds  with boat only access - ie no car, so being on the water became natural.  I also learned to listen to weather forecasts, learn about tide, figure out what clothes were needed, how to manage waves, how to look after a boat, tie knots, use tools, navigate to different coastlines or beaches. ​

I recently sold a TIWAL to someone who grew up in the middle of a country with no land in sight.   But now he lives near the ocean, hoping to bring up his family to be capable both on land and on water. 

Did you grow up in the middle of the country - have you considered sailing as an achievable capability or is it something that you have never considered at all?

There are many sailing schools or if that is too expensive, there are boat owners who always need crew.  You need only turn up at a marina on a race day or check out crew wanted sites.  You need to know how to listen , follow instructions and ask questions. You will learn so much in one day!  (If you can't swim, wear a life jacket).  

The TIWAL is a simple boat - once you have set up the boat the first time, there is no need to tie any knot other than a figure 8 knot, and the parts click or slide together.   The boat is simple and comfortable enough to be able to give everyone a go in it.  Even the most unenthusiastic about sailing might find this a fun experience.  The only issue is you might never get to use the boat yourself! 

Why tow when you can stow? Tiwal fits snugly into a medium sized sedan boot, SUV or camper van load space.  No more towing or backing a trailer when launching.  In just 20 minutes from boot to briny you can be sailing a boat with all the lively qualities of popular monotype class dinghies.  In addition you can sail alone or two up, teach the children sailing independence at beach front, estuaries or navigable rivers. 


Check www.tiwal.nz to get your TIWAL delivered in 5 days to NZ or Australia. 


Or email [email protected] to book a sail.  Sailing lessons offered (NZ only)