Strictly Sail Long Beach Returns to Shoreline Village

LONG BEACH >> A hands-on search for the right sailboat is expected to attract scores of recreational sailors today and through this weekend at the second annual Strictly Sail Long Beach event at the Shoreline Village in Rainbow Harbor.

The show features late-model sailboats and accessories coming on the market, plus educational seminars and an America’s Cup sailing simulator.

But for the real splash-water experience, visitors will also have opportunities to get behind the helm and sail around the Long Beach harbor. Young sailors and old salts will be welcomed aboard.

“It’s a sailor’s paradise,” said Dave Geoffroy, show representative, adding that there will be at least 80 sailboat models and 100 seminars.

With nearly 53,000 registered sailboats in the state, sailing continues to gain popularity in California, according to show manager Kevin Murphy. He added that this year’s show is expected to exceed last year’s event that saw nearly 5,000 visitors — a 130 percent attendance increase over 2011, he said.

“We’re excited about the growing interest in sailing,” Murphy said, adding that racing events such as America’s Cup help to increase the sport’s popularity and interest in regional shows.

Strictly Sail Long Beach features:

— Fred’s Shed Interactive Learning Center, with hands-on clinics and a Certified Marine Service Technician offering up advice on maintaining, repairing or upgrading boats or engines.

— Discover Boating Hands-On Skills Training with on-the-water workshops that will take sailing skills up a notch.

— A full schedule of workshops including Fundamental Sailing Skills, Docking Under Power and Introduction to Catamarans.

— Free hourly seminars include the basics of hoisting sails, boating safety and navigating by the stars.

— Free hands-on, on-the-water sailing for entry-level sailboats, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Visitors are encouraged to bring dry clothing and a towel.

— Saturday party at dockside, featuring free beer and pizza, live music and prizes.

Admission to Strictly Sail Long Beach is $10 for adults and free for youths 15 and younger who are accompanied by an adult. Active military with ID are also free. There are no senior discounts.

Show hours: today, noon to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 714-633-7581 or visitwww.strictlysaillongbeach.com. Story