I joined TSPS 5 years ago after stumbling-upon a decrepit abandoned yacht in Chiba; I joined in order to get my Class II license so that I could sail the craft while fixing her up. Eventually, with the help of TSPS and friends like Evan Burkosky and Tony Hardie, we made the boat (and me, too!) seaworthy. More recently, I have fallen into an even older larger sailboat and, working with friends, have restored her to magnificence! She is a very desirable fifty-year old Swan 44'. So I parted with my beloved Santana and solo-sailing to more traditional crew-sailing (but to much farther destinations!). Sailing is such a rich and deep pastime. Thank you for posting your own comments or sailing experiences here.