Just found the following list on a forum thread about becoming a shoestring sailor (link):
- Learn to navigate – the old fashioned way (with paper chart and using DR)….useful (IMO still essential) even if using a Chartplotter.
- Engine Mechanics – at least able to service own engine and to spot when anything is amiss before it gets serious or terminal ($$$).
- Electrickery – a basic understanding is good, at least enough not to fry oneself or set fire to boat!
- Learn to Sail! – some ability to get the sails up and move under wind power is essential. More ability is nice!
So yeah, got an exam on the 1) on sunday. I’d consider myself a serious hobbyist on 2) and 3). Training for 4) is already booked. Seems I’m heading somewhere….