Gas is expensive, and engines usually noisy. Speed is fun, but not always good for the nerves. Why not sail away then? It may be better for the neophyte to start with sailboat charters, to get acquainted with sailing and the many parts of a sailboat. One can try in the winter, somewhere south, or in the summer, from one of the beautiful marina of the St-Lawrence or the Great Lakes. Later on, one may consider sailboat rental for a couple of seasons, till one feels ready to be captain of one's own boat and starts shopping around. There are many sailboat sales on the Web, and all the information one needs on sailboat insurance. Buying second hand is an interesting option and used sailboat parts as well as sailboat hardware are usually easy to find. Either new or used, there are many factors to consider: Fiberglass, or wooden sailboat? what size? how many sails? Whatever the choice, one must always be careful and consult with experts first. The Net is full of websites devoted to sailboats, both new and used, and one is bound to find the tanzer, pace ship or laser sailboat for sale that will fulfill one's expectations. And for those who'd rather daydream in the comfort of their living room, a model sailboat above the fireplace will definitely help.