Sorry, but last time I checked, NOTHING in life is "free"... Granted wind power will save you on fuel but you still have to eat, make repairs and use your engine to get in to port.. etc. etc.... I can't go around the world for "free" anymore than you can... What's the price of replacing those expensive sails when they get weathered out?

It's the same with snow sports.. Downhill skiers think snowmobilers are rude and obnoxious.. Cross Country skiers think downhill skiers are rude and lazy.. Snowshoe enthusiasts think cross country skiers are wimps.. etc. etc.

It's a good thing spelling isn't a requirement for being a good sailing skipper!

Here here Brett!... They don't give sails away these days...I've been on a few large sailboats in my time... The IC engine was ALWAYS used at least twice on each trip.. I have to admit it's VERY cool to rip across the water hearing only the wind, but those days when there is NO wind? well, it's best to "miss out" on those days :)

I used to be a purist too... I had a very little boat back then.. A whitewater kayak... Total gravity sport. It sure was fun when I was in my 20's but then a good buddy of mine died while kayaking and I had a few close calls myself..It just got too dangerous or I got too old... If gasoline gets to 6 bucks a gallon? I'd have to consider a sailboat instead of a powerboat. ( I hope I don't have to eat these words in a year)