📝 Learning to Sail in Stanley: My Dinghy Debut

#hkwatersports
I’ve always admired sailboats gliding effortlessly over the water, so I decided to try dinghy sailing at Stanley Main Beach — and let’s just say, steering a boat with the wind is a whole new adventure! 🌊💨

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📍 Getting There
• Took the MTR to Admiralty Station
• From Exit C1, hopped on Bus 6, 6X, or 260 straight to Stanley Market
• A short 5-minute walk brought me to the LCSD Stanley Main Beach Water Sports Centre

⏱️ Travel time: ~50 minutes from Central
💰 Transport cost: ~HK$10–15

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💸 Course & Gear

I joined a “Beginner Dinghy Sailing Course” offered by the LCSD (Leisure and Cultural Services Department).
💰 Price: HK$200 for a full-day lesson — an absolute bargain!
Included: dinghy boat, life vest, wetsuit (optional), and instruction from a certified sailing coach.

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🌬️ The Experience

The morning started with learning how to read the wind, handle the sail, and steer the tiller. On land, it seemed easy. On water… not so much. 😅

Once we launched, the wind caught the sail, and the boat leaned just enough to make my heart race. After a few wobbly turns and accidental zigzags, I started to get the hang of it — gliding over the waves with the breeze in my face was pure joy.

We practiced tacking and gybing (turning maneuvers) and even raced each other back to shore. The sense of accomplishment after handling the boat solo was amazing.

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⚠️ Tips for First-Timers
• Wear water shoes — you’ll be stepping in and out of the sea
• Bring a change of clothes (yes, you will get wet)
• Don’t fight the wind — work with it
• Listen carefully to the coach before launching

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⭐ Final Thoughts

Learning to sail in Stanley was both a challenge and a thrill. It’s a sport that combines technique, patience, and a dash of adventure. If you want a taste of freedom on the open water, dinghy sailing is the perfect place to start — and Stanley’s beautiful coastal views make it even better. ⛵🌅

Next time, I’m signing up for the intermediate course… and maybe bringing a friend to race! 😎