Boats and learning about them are not stepping stones to some
end. They are an end and a beginning in and of themselves.

Like many philsophical statements, the one above has no real meaning.
Almost everyone who sails has progressed beyond the abilities of their first,
second and even third boats. They were stepping stones.
Allow me to help you with the term:

Websters: Stepping Stone: 2 : a means of progress or advancement

Hmmmm. Like many people, you're offended by the capitalistic element introduced
to a passion that you feel is well above such things. It isn't. It takes money
to sail, a boat, usually a car. It's not exactly Yoga, now is it?

RB