For many, the thought of not being able to go for a sail due to the current Coronavirus pandemic is very disappointing, or may even border on distressing.
As well as a fun hobby, for some sailing is a profession, for others it’s a way to stay active and for many it’s an important way to de-stress and take care of their mental health.
Some people may be able to continue sailing during this time, but for a lot of crew and racing sailors, the restrictions put in place due to COVID-19 will force them to stay on dry land for an extended and unknown period of time.
Despite not being to get out on the water with your fellow crew members, there are some things you can do while in self-isolation to keep involved in the sailing community and prepare for future sailing events.
Call a sailor
Your fellow crew members are all in the same boat at this time (well, not literally), and may be in need of some social interaction. Although getting together for a sail or social might not be possible, a simple phone call or message to keep in touch certainly is.
Keep sailing fit
The rules around what we are and are not supposed to do are continually changing and different from place to place, but no matter what restrictions are in place for you, there are ways to keep up your fitness with healthy eating and at-home workouts.
Take an online sailing course
Now’s a great time to do an online sailing course to build your knowledge for the next time you’re out on the water. A sailing qualification may even help you secure your next sailing position, particularly if you want to join an offshore race. We have some online course options available through our partners here.
Plan your next sailing adventure
Think about what types of sailing you might be interested to do in 6-8 months, and start planning and researching these now. It’s great to have something to look forward to, and although none of us know when this will be over, it won’t hurt to plan ahead. Just make sure to keep an open mind and keep your planning flexible.
Share your knowledge and adventures
Did you know, you can write an article on a sailing or racing related topic and submit it for inclusion on this site? If you are particularly knowledgeable about an area of sailing, or have an interesting story to tell, why not share it with your fellow sailors. Click here to find out how to submit your article.
MySail is working on some other initiatives to help keep our sailing community engaged and connected during this time. Stay tuned for more information.
