| If you're based in Sudbury give the Regatta Point club on Lake
Quinsigamond a close look. I was a member some years ago and thought it
to be an exceptionaly good deal. At the time the cost was $100+ for the
family, unlimited usage of the boats, unlimited instruction, open from
early April until late October and never EVER a wait for a boat. Most
times we showed up there was one at the dock rigged and ready to go.
At the time they had a fleet of O-Day 19's and kept them in good repair.
Lockers and showers, ample parking, beach next door, friendly staff. It
seems that the clumsier you are as a student the more they like you.
Spouse turned a boat turtle one afternoon and they were out immediatly
with the outboard and a nice new dry boat so she could get in more
practice while they rescued the other one.
In addition to the basic daysailing instruction they had some optional
programs for beginning cruisers. There is a racing schedule but, unlike
other clubs I've seen, it does NOT dominate the activities - regular
people have priority.
Give them a visit. I imagine prices have gone up a bit and the lake is
somewhat cramped but it couldn't be much more convenient. I believe
they have a reciprocal arrangement with the Charles River outfit if you
want to try the Boston area for an occasional change of scenery.
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| Hi Bob
Just thought I'd put in a plug for CBI - I'm sure lake Q is a great
place as well - but I think you may actually be as close to CBI,
coming from Sudbury. I live in Natick; I hop on the Mash pike
and am there in 20 minutes or so...have been a member for 5 years
or so. I recommend it because of its congenial atmosphere and
nice location. After the first year, the small section of river
they have (just between the 2 bridges) can get a bit cramped, but
they run frequent harbor trips etc on larger boats.
One thing I like is that you are taught by other members who volunteer
to instruct and by teaching yourself via attending a class and rigging
demo. When you get your rating, you may then want to teach other
beginners - a nice, social system. And the crowd is eclectic; not
many yups and a good dose of students.
The thing that causes me to renew my card each year (even though
I do enough other sailing) is that it's very convenient as an unique
entertainment venue. You can take guests for free once you get
a card. I get quite a few guests from out-of-town or out-of-country
who'd like to "see Boston". So the standard treatment is to haul
them in, plop them in the boat at cbi, and give them a tour of
the buildings etc. by pointing them out from out on the river.
THEN, there's usually free music at the hatch shell right next door
AND 7's pub or Locke-Ober's are just a WALK away! Always a good
time...
"the sailor gave at least a try, the soldier being much too wise..."
Mark Palmer
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