In praise of something new

By Lydia Mullan, SAIL magazine editor
In the May issue, Charles Scott writes about sailing OPBs—other people’s boats—and a host of voyages that he’s been on thanks to generous invites, offers to lend a helping hand, or the initiative to try something new.

I am also a devout practitioner of the OPB philosophy. This is partially because I don’t have a boat of my own, unless you count the old laser turning green in my parents’ backyard (more on this another time). But I also agree that it’s a useful challenge.

Charles lays out a whole host of reasons why hitching a ride with someone else is worth your time—even if you do have a boat of your own. Different boats have different lessons to teach, as do the people who sail them. Plus someone else’s itinerary might have you visiting places you otherwise wouldn’t or practicing skills that you’ve neglected on your own time.

Sure, if you’re used to running the show it can be awkward to fumble through someone else’s protocol, or you may shove off and belatedly realize that you’re not exactly destined to be lifelong friends with some of your new crewmates. You will probably have to learn something new, and it will probably be uncomfortable. – Full report