But most of all, go sailing. As the saying goes; you can't learn to ride a bike by reading a book.

The only legitimate excuse I can think of for "I don't have time" is that you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness (or have some some other bleak outlook). If that's the case, then go DO it! It might turn out great and the alternative sucks.

PS -- don't bring an EPIRB. It wouldn't be fair to put others in danger (or cause the taxpayers expense) due to your brash decisions.