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Your Sailing Adventure Starts Here !

Four Ways to Get Started In Sailing


How hard can this be!

My first sailing adventure was a mix of determination and chaos. After buying a small used sailboat, I strapped it to the roof of my Chevy Nova and drove out to Lake Maumelle, armed with nothing but a brochure from the previous owner. He promised it had all the instructions I'd need. Standing in the marina parking lot, staring at rigging diagrams and unfamiliar terms like 'halyard' and 'clew,' I started to feel overwhelmed. Finally, I tossed the brochure in the back seat, launched the boat, and hoped for the best.

What followed was a series of comical mishaps—capsizes, crashes, and plenty of laughs from the dockside crowd. But somehow, I managed to stay afloat long enough to zig-zag back to shore. That chaotic afternoon may not have been graceful, but it sparked a love for sailing that has stayed with me ever since.

Back then, I had no idea how much easier my start could have been. The Grande Maumelle Sailing Club was just across the lake, filled with experienced sailors eager to share their passion for the sport. Whether you're brand new to sailing or just looking for a new adventure, there's a better way to get started.

Here are four ways to dive into sailing today.
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Crew On a Boat
Crew On a Boat

Crew on a Boat: Learn the Ropes Hands-On

The best way to learn sailing is to jump right in! Crewing on a boat gives you an up-close look at the action while learning the basics. You'll help rig the boat, trim the sails, and learn the unique sailing language as a team. It's exciting, educational, and one of the fastest ways to immerse yourself in the world of sailing.

Why You'll Love It:

  • Low Barrier to Entry: Jumping into sailing doesn’t mean breaking the bank. In summer, a good pair of gloves and some sunscreen might be all you need. For winter sailing, staying warm and dry with a jacket or rain gear can make all the difference. Not fully outfitted yet? No problem—skippers will guide you on what’s essential for a great day on the water, and borrowing gear for your first few outings is often an option.
  • Diverse Experiences: You'll sail on different types of boats, giving you a better sense of what suits your style.
  • Instant Community: Crewing is a gateway to friendships. You'll bond with your boatmates and join the vibrant post-race social scene.



⚓ Insider Tips: Make the Most of Your Crewing Experience

  1. Build Confidence Before You Race: New to sailing? GMSC occasionally offers crewing classes to help you get started. Many skippers also welcome crew members for practice sessions before race day. These informal outings are perfect for getting familiar with the boat, meeting your team, and learning the basics—all before your first race.
  2. Take the First Step: Sometimes, the best opportunities come from showing up. Swing by GMSC before or after the races to get a feel for the boats, meet the sailors, and make connections. Skippers often find themselves needing crew on short notice—be there to seize the day!


👉 Ready to crew?

Sign up for the Crew List, contact our Membership Chair or check the Club Calendar for upcoming opportunities!

While you’re at it, take a look at the Types of Boats sailed at GMSC to find what inspires you.

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Volunteer for Race Committee
Volunteer for Race Committee

Volunteer for Race Committee: Get Close to the Action

Not quite ready to take the helm? Joining the Race Committee puts you in the thick of the action without getting on a racing sailboat. The committee sets up and manages sailboat races; there's always room for new volunteers. You'll help with tasks like setting up the racecourse, adjusting marks, or keeping an eye on safety while enjoying a front-row seat to the excitement.

Why You'll Love It:

  • A Fun Way to Spend the Day: You'll stay busy but still get to enjoy the beauty of the lake and the thrill of the races.
  • No Equipment Needed: You can jump in without needing any special gear or training.
  • Community Connections: Race committee members are part of the after-race social scene and are invited to all events.
  • Pathways to Involvement: As you gain experience, you can take on more prominent roles in race management.
  • Valuable Insights: Watching boats up close in all types of conditions gives you a deeper understanding of how they handle. When you’re ready to invest in a boat of your own, you’ll have more information to make an informed choice.

⚓ Insider's Tip: You don't have to commit to an entire season! Try volunteering for a single race day—if you like it, the sky's the limit!



👉 Interested in volunteering?

Learn More about the Race Committee, contact the Race Committee Chair, or check the club calendar for Volunteer Opportunities.

 

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Learn to Sail
Learn to Sail

 Learn to Sail: Take the Helm with Confidence

Dreaming of steering your boat someday? Our Learn-to-Sail programs are designed to teach both kids and adults the skills they need to sail independently. With GMSC's year-round sailing activities, you'll build confidence on the water while having fun along the way.

Why You'll Love It

  • Affordable & Convenient: Avoid the high costs of traditional sailing schools—our programs are budget-friendly and close to home.
  • Expert Guidance: Our volunteer instructors are experienced sailors eager to share their knowledge.
  • Club Boats at Your Disposal: Associate members can use club boats for free, giving you plenty of tiller time without the expense of owning your own boat.

⚓ Insider's Tip: Planning to explore waters beyond Lake Maumelle? GMSC is home to sailors with deep experience in racing, cruising, and recreational sailing. Whether you're charting a course for the Gulf Coast or dreaming of bluewater adventures, chances are someone can offer valuable guidance to help you start your journey.



👉 Curious about classes?

Contact our Learn-to-Sail Program Coordinators for schedules and details, or check the Club Calendar for upcoming programs and tiller-time opportunities.

Programs:

Adult Learn to Sail, alts@gmsc.org

Junior Learn to Sail, jlts@gmsc.org  

Tiller-Time, tillertime@gmsc.org


 

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Join the Party
Join the Party

Join the Party: Connect with the Community

Sailing isn't just about boats—it's about people. GMSC's social events are where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and the spirit of sailing comes alive. From tailgating by the lake in summer to cozy gatherings at the clubhouse in winter, you'll find a welcoming community ready to make your sailing journey unforgettable.

Why You'll Love It:

  • After-Race Gatherings: In summer, sailors tailgate in the parking lot, while winter brings gatherings to the clubhouse.
  • Regatta Events: Multiday regattas often include informal dinners open to all participants, volunteers, and club members.
  • Fleet Socials: Many fleets host their own events and meetings. These are great for connecting with skippers and finding crew spots.
  • Host Your Event: Club facilities are available for members and guests—perfect for creating your own sailing-themed get-together.

Insider's Tip: Social networking is one of the best ways to build your sailing knowledge. Have a question? Someone at GMSC almost certainly has the answer!

👉 Want to get social?

Check the Club Calendar for upcoming events, or contact the Clubhouse chairman for details on hosting your own gathering.


When I think back to that first day on the water, I can't help but laugh at all the trial-and-error moments I went through. But I also realize how much simpler it could have been if I'd found the Grande Maumelle Sailing Club sooner.

Now, you have the chance to learn from my mistakes and start your sailing story with the right tools, support, and community. Whether you're crewing on a boat, volunteering, taking a class, or joining in the social fun, GMSC is here to make the experience easier—and a lot more fun
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Sailing is about learning, growing, and finding your rhythm on the water. So, take the first step, and let us help you create your own story.

We'll see you out there!


About the Author
Neil Jones has been an active sailor since the mid-1970s, racing Thistles and Flying Scots and cruising the Florida Keys and the Bahamas aboard his Nonsuch 33. Recently, he restored a gaff-rigged catboat, which he now sails on Lake Maumelle. As the GMSC.org webmaster, Neil combines his passion for sailing with a love of photography, documenting the vibrant sailing community on Lake Maumelle. His work can be found at sailinglakemaumelle.com