I pulled this initial group together intentionally — because we’ve already been having these conversations, and I trust how you show up. This is a small crew right now, which means we get to set the tone from the beginning. The goal is simple: Create a space where women in sailing can actually connect, be honest about their experiences, and raise the standard together. Let’s go!! Please post freely and start real conversations that feel natural. Share what’s actually happening out there, and how we want to change this all for the better. I’ll be adding video and educational content as we go, so this can also become a space for learning and growth. If something sparks a bigger conversation or could turn into a resource, bring it! The goal is to make this feel like a space people can step into and immediately think, “oh… I belong here.” Once the tone is set and this space is alive with your energy, I’ll open it up to everyone. Thank you for being part of this from the beginning — seriously. I'm so excuted to build something better together. ⚓

Alright I need you all to run with this one because it’s too good not to 😄 When a man assumes you don’t know what you’re doing and asks, “Can you handle that?” The only response in my head is, “I sure can… but only if I concentrate EXTRA hard with my lady brain.” What are your favorite mic-drop internal comebacks? Drop yours below 👇 Let’s hear them!

OK one of the most "guaranteed-to-get-into-an-argument-on-a-boat" moments is when I'm on the bow trying to catch a mooring and Husband is comin' in way too hot or not even at all close enough to give me a chance. Naturally lots of yelling over motors and distance happens next. Would LOVE pointers on how people handle this one... it always leads to an epic for us.

It's amazing (still to this day) how often it's assumed that I know little to nothing when I step on a new boat. Or how often I get interrupted, spoken over, ignored, or subtly invalidated. Once I was on a boat with someone I knew (but hadn't sailed with before) and downwind I turned around to call the breeze and talk through incoming puffs. At one point, WHILE I was calling breeze, the skipper interrupted me MID-SENTENCE to tell the brand-new-first-time-on-a-sailboat male crew, to look upwind and tell him about the next shift. The new guy just laughed and said, "I literally have no idea what that even means." and I was like... WTAF!...that is exactly what I am currently doing...are you F-ing kidding me right now?! I spent the rest of that race day in a frustrated spiral and will never sail with that skipper again. In some ways, I think I've learned to expect it (which sucks) but at least I'm not caught off guard anymore. But I've also become a lot pickier about who I sail with. More recently I've begun to relish in just quietly being a badass and waiting for that one surprised comment when they finally realize I know what I'm doing. But of course that doesn't always happen. *sigh* Are there any other tips or mantras you all have? I know we've all been there.

I created Sailing Sisterhood because being a woman in sailing can feel like an uphill battle at times — but it doesn’t have to be. This space exists so we can connect, support each other, and raise the standard for how women are treated and show up in this sport — together. Anonymity is encouraged here. Using a nickname or non-identifying username is the norm — especially when sharing sensitive experiences like harassment or mistreatment (see the "Start Here" classroom about how we'll do this here safely). I’ll be using my real name at times as I build this space and share video content or educational material, but for the most part, I’ll be participating under a more anonymous username too. This isn’t about proving yourself or having it all figured out. It's about showing up as you are, building confidence, and learning from each other along the way. ⚓ Inside this community you’ll find: • Real, honest conversations • Support from women who get it • A respectful, judgment-free space • Shared knowledge — from beginner to elite From time to time, I plan to host live conversations, have guest speakers, or simple Q&As. There’s no right way to be here. Lurk, read, jump in, or post when you’re ready. 👇 If you’d like, start off with sharing some thoughts with the group: – Favorite sailing experience – Least favorite sailing experience – What you’re hoping to get from this space (your wishlist) This is something we’re building together. I’ll keep adding resources as it becomes clear what’s most helpful — so don’t be shy about sharing what you want to see here. I’m really glad you’re came. Let’s build a sailing community where we all feel supported — and thrive. - Melissa