History of Sailing

 

Using the power of wind to propel a vessel across water is known as sailing and has been utilized for centuries. It cannot be said who developed the first sail boat, or when, but it was likely devised for the purpose of fishing or transportation.

Sailing rose to prowess in the Age of Sail - when sailing ships dominated both international trade and naval warfare. Years for the Age of Sail are commonly placed from 1571 to 1862. After nearly 300 years of commanding the sea, sail power was overshadowed by the invention of the steam engine.In modern times, sailing has returned to popularity on many fronts. Though often accorded as a pasttime only for the rich, recreational sailing has seen a steady rise of late. Serious sailing is also growing, with sail training programs all around the world readying new generations for marine and maritime careers.

Sail training, and the accompanying tall ships races it stages, have created a new found public appreciation for the sail boats, tall ships, and the sailing trade.