Sailing refers to the skillful art of maneuvering a sailboat or sailing ship across a body of water. Sailing crafts use the power of the wind as propulsion. It is both a sport and a recreational activity, often pursued by those who enjoy being on the water and thrill-seekers who desire to master the art of sailboat control in different sea and wind conditions. Modern sailing is divided into racing, cruising and “daysailing”. Yacht racing is the sport of competitive sailing. It involves a variety of races such as harbor or buoy racing and offshore racing. Sail boats include dinghies, catamarans, cruising yachts and purpose-built race boats.
Cruising is more of a recreational type that involves living full-time on a boat while traveling by water from one place to the other. It typically refers to trips that involves few days or more out in the sea and can extend far-reaching voyages. Sailboat cruising predominates over long distances and the more adventurous circle the globe which can take many years. Sailing lessons are relatively inexpensive or you can have them for free if you have friends who sail.