New to Cruising

[cobb113]

Hi my partner and i are wanting to get a power cruser and cruse ether down the Ohio/ Mississippi and up the east cast or down the east coast and in to the gulf we are working on a tight budget but are open to suggestions looking for boat recommendations

Thanks

[Badsanta]

Check out the AGLCA.

[rw58ph]

The best is to start walking the docks/marinas and going to boat shows to get an idea of the size and lay out that meets your budget and needs. Also what boating experience and knowledge do you have will also be a factor.

Be more than glad to help but your questions is to broad/general.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, cobb.

[SV THIRD DAY]

We were all NEW to Cruising at one time Amigo....

Wellcome to the Lifestyle of repairing heads, dropping tools and nuts into the bilge and trying to keep the wet stuff on the outside of the Hull!

[GPSocal]

cobb113

"Tight Budgets" and boats don't go well together. In addition to normal operating cost i.e. fuel, things break and because they are usually labeled 'marine' things - they are expensive. If you are new to boating, I suggest you take some Power Squadron or Coast Guard Auxiliary courses to learn the basics. In addition to the learning experience in the classes, other students can be a wealth of knowledge in helping you in your choice of hull design.
Before you jump into your first purchase you may want to charter a boat which is similar to what you think you want. Spending a few days aboard will be very helpful. Look at the charter fee as a measure of part of the cost of ownership - moorage, repair & maintenance, insurance, loan costs, etc. The cost of fuel and amount used with your cruising style will give you an idea of that expense.
Too many variables to answer your basic question, but there is considerable knowledge on this forum to address specific issues.

Welcome to the Forum.