Who are We?

What's a Messabout?  A messabout is a gathering of small boats.  It stems from "messing about in boats", a quote from Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame.  We want to promote messabouts in Michigan.

What type of boats?  Primarily shallow-draft, beachable sailboats.  We like places that are quieter, where the bigger boats don't go.  You'll see everything from tiny car-top dinghies to centerboard trailer-sailors up to twenty feet or so.  You can see a list of the types of boats that have attended here.  But we're not too picky--if you think you'd fit in, you probably do!

How do I join?  It's real simple:  show up!  It's great if you contact us ahead of time, but the main thing is to get out there and join us!  Make sure you join our Facebook group to keep up to date!

The Vibe.  We are casual, informal, and family-friendly.  We aren't trying to get anywhere, and we certainly aren't trying to get anywhere fast.  We want to be welcome to beginners and experts alike.  Too often we sail alone:  a messabout is a great opportunity to bring someone along, and meet new sailing friends.

Can I come without a boat?  Absolutely!  Most of us are happy to share our boat with a crew.  It would be a great way to meet friends and try out small boat sailing.

Do I have to camp at the planned events?  Nope.  Come for just Saturday if you want.  Or pick a hotel or other accommodations nearby if you aren't into camping.

Do I register, pay a fee, or something else?  Relax--no registration here.  Make your camping site registration on your own and meet us there.  We'd love to know who is coming, so send us an email or mark "attending" on the Facebook page.  

Disclaimer

Michigan Messabouts are gatherings of like minded sailors--it's not an entity, charity, or business.  Think of it as a group of collector car owners getting together for a drive: each person is responsible for their own driving and their own vehicle.

The gatherings and suggested activities take place on land.  This is intentional, as we do not make recommendations of when, where, and how to sail, nor do we ensure that conditions are safe for sailing or that aid or rescue is available.  We are not responsible for your safety, you are!  Each person is responsible for themselves and for their watercraft--they alone must decide if the conditions are right for themselves and their watercraft.