10 Fascinating Facts About Sailing That Will Excite Kids

Sailing is a fun and exciting hobby for people of all ages. It can be a great way to get out and explore the open waters and learn new skills. Kids between the ages of 9-12 years old can have a great time learning the basics of sailing, and here are 10 interesting facts that will make them even more interested in taking up sailing. 1. Sailing is one of the oldest forms of transportation. People have been sailing since the Stone Age, when they used basic rafts and canoes to transport goods and explore new areas. 2. The tallest ships ever built could be up to 300 feet tall from the waterline to the top of the mast.

3. The term “starboard” comes from the old English word “steering board”, which was used to control the rudder of the ship. 4. Sailors used to use flint and steel to light fires on the boat, which were used to cook food and provide heat. 5. There are four basic points of sail, which are defined by the angle of the wind relative to the boat. These points are close-hauled, beam reach, beam reach, and dead-downwind. 6. The most common type of sailing craft is the sloop, which has one mast and two sails. 7. Before navigation tools like GPS were available, sailors used stars and the sun to determine their position at sea. 8. A sailor needs to be aware of the weather at all times when sailing. They must be prepared for sudden storms or changes in the wind. 9. Sailboats need to be balanced properly in order to sail efficiently. Too much weight on one side of the boat can cause it to take on water and sink. 10. Sailing can be enjoyed in all kinds of weather. Whether it’s a sunny day or a stormy night, sailors can still have a great time. Hopefully these facts have sparked your kids' interest in sailing! It's a great way to get out and explore, learn new skills, and just have a great time.