I've sailed for a long time and reckon there's definitely an aptitude link betweeen sailing flying and skiing. They all have a set of common factors:-
Travelling in a direction different to the one in which you are pointing.
Going up down and sideways at the same time
Emptying one's wallet.
I find it far cheaper to sail other peoples boats. I'll probably do the Beneteau Cup this summer and am looking forward to a week's bareboat charter in Turkey on a Dufour 385. I also have a half share in a RIB and will be marshalling at the Fleet Review.