As we all know in a virtual world, we can do whatever we want right? We can experience new things, try things we never would in the real world, the possibilities are endless. I decided to dip my virtual toes into something completely new. Something I never thought I’d do you’re probably wondering what that is? I put my sea legs out and set out on a whole new adventure with virtual world sailing. Sailing? You’re probably thinking but believe it or not Second Life is one of the best boating and sailing simulators at the moment. There is a large vast body of water specifically the Blake Sea that I’ve been using. I discovered sailing in Second Life during hurricane Dorian when Florida was supposed to get hit but was completely bypassed with just some offshore winds and heavy rains. Luckily, I didn’t lose power, or I wouldn’t have been able to explore this new hobby I’m now super into!

Now keep in mind I’m a noob when it comes to boating inside of Second Life at the moment. I recently have just been cruising around on my expensive sailboat that I did a lot of research and digging to find and use. It did come with a manual thank goodness! Otherwise, I’d be super lost at what to do and how to operate it. It said that it would take me about 2 hours to operate it well and be able to drive it fast and that is for people who know how to sail in Second Life. Let’s just say it only took me half an hour to learn how to use my boat effectively with all the researching I’ve been doing on it. I even dropped by a WordPress blog specifically written to help beginner sailors that were written a long time ago, but it was still relevant which I’ve realized while continuing my research and it helped with a lot of questions I had.

This is an experience I’d try if you want something fun to do to spice up your virtual life. You’re able to explore new places specifically little islands that Linden Labs created to stop at or drive around. There are lighthouses, Buoys, and other boaters out in the sea with you. It’s so much fun to explore new places and meet new people it brings the free spirit out of you. I’ll be honest, I went sailing in the Blake Sea again today and it was so much fun! I discovered a medium-sized island with people on it relaxing and people out on their boats there were even some avatars that were dressed up as mermaids swimming in the lagoons and sea waters in the area. So many people hang out in the Blake Sea keep in mind this sea is a huge body of water it’s a bunch of individualized sims (land plots) pieced together specifically for sailing and water activities ONLY. There are some residential areas off the waters but for the most part, you’ll find marinas and islands to explore and take part in.

You might be thinking to yourself the same thing I was thinking if you’re reading this post “wow! That sounds so interesting how do I try it out and get started?” well to be honest with you I’d research first before jumping right into it. I honestly did just jump into it, but I had time to learn how to do everything since I’ve been stuck in the house for a few days. But if you buy a boat and you’re ready I’d suggest the Bandit (The Mesh Shop) for buying your first boat. If you’re serious about it the investment is worth it. You’re looking at spending 2,500 Lindens – 3,000 Lindens for a nicely made boat with a compass, real sounds from the ship, etc. Their nice mine is one from their shop. Was I super serious at the time when I bought my boat? No. But I’m glad I invested because I’ve been sailing in the waters every day. Just a head’s up though if you don’t have the best computer or you tend to lag a lot in world just know you might be logging every few sim hops. That was my issue a lot and I have a gaming computer so that’s just to let you know what you may experience while driving over sim borders. I only had to relog once in 2 hours so not too bad, but it is a possibility even on a well-made computer. But if you’re planning on sailing a lot or it’s something you really want to do make the investment you won’t be sorry especially with the Bandit ships they’re mesh super well made and can seat not only you but if you want to bring some of your friends with you out into the open sea then they’re great for that. The poses on the ships are nice they’re not those free poses you’ll find at a freebie shop and I would hope not for the price of the ship you’re spending. I’d be a little disappointed if it was. So, if you’re on the fence about sailing there are free boats you can get as well as I said just do your research. I will also make a post for you guys with the 101’s about sailing in Second Life and a how to get started post for you guys who are super interested. I’ll also be typing up a new post in the future with a review on my specific Bandit ship that I have.

Bottom line, if you’re one who loves to explore new places, meet new people, and sail the open seas this is a way to spice up your virtual life. I hope this has helped you make up your decision if you were on the fence with it. If you’re new to the concept, in general, I hope this has provided information and helped a little bit telling you what you can experience by sailing in a virtual world setting. It’s a whole lot of fun and there will be more posts to come about it!

Stay Tuned!