Meet Sailing Instructor Jeff “Vegas” Howard
I discovered the thrill of sailing at 14, at Boy Scout camp, and I returned the next summer to teach sailing there. I acquired my first sailboat, a used El Toro, from that camp and have been teaching anyone that would listen ever since.
Teaching in California – Newport Beach to San Diego
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I spent 15 years in the restaurant/bar industry and another 15 in real estate. Besides sailing, I love playing poker, performing in community theater productions, off-roading, snorkeling, and playing the ukulele.
Keelboats -or- Catamarans?
Keelboats
Local Sailing -or- Coastal/Charter Vacations -or- Deep Blue?
Cruiser (chill)
What’s your “Style” of sailing?
Deep blue and beyond
What got you into sailing?
I discovered the thrill of sailing at 14, at Boy Scout camp, and I returned the next summer to teach sailing there. I acquired my first sailboat, a used El Toro, from that camp.
What does sailing do (or has done) for you?
I tend to go fast with everything I do. I’m always in a hurry, even when I don’t need to be. For some reason, when I am sailing, I’m just calm and relaxed. If there is no wind, I just chill.
Most memorable sailing experience?
I delivered a 42′ catamaran 5,200 nautical miles from Florida to California through the Panama Canal. It took 66 days total.
What are a couple of your favorite sailing spots?
I love San Diego Harbor, because I can share it with anyone. Some people don’t want to sail in the ocean because they get seasick. Almost no one gets seasick in a harbor. The skyline there is wonderful too, as well as a ton of military aircraft & ships going by, every day. I have even had the good fortune to see submarines! I also really enjoy sailing around St Thomas in the USVI, stopping every night to snorkel.
What’s your favorite part about teaching sailors?
I guess I just love sharing my passion. Watching others get excited about something that makes me so happy is the best part of my day!
What advice would you give a new student about sailing? An experienced sailor?
New – get out on the water with others. The only way to become skilled is to keep doing it.
Experienced – sometimes I will ask them if they are open to another way to do ‘that’, whatever ‘that’ may be. Some are open. Some are not.
What is a random fact about yourself?
I once passed out while skydiving.
What’s on your sailing ‘bucket list’?
So much! Easter Island and Greece are near the top!
Learn more about Jeff (“Vegas”) or ask about instruction ›
Cheers!! Looking forward to your “ah ha” moment
Author
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