And the planning begins...

[kaisteinbeck]

Hi all,

I am one of those want to be guys, making his plan to be one of those guys.

The plan:
Buy sail boat and spend at least 12 months cruising the Caribbean

The guy:
I am not new to boats, but new to sailing. I have worked on Liveaboard dive boats for many years, as well as day boats and I am comfortable on the water. BUT - I have never sailed a boat!!!!

The boat:
Small enough to be handled by one person, I'm thinking 36 foot????

Sooooo, over to you guys.... advice from those who have done it, advice of those who planned to do it but didn't, any advice at all....

Thanks in advance.

Kai Steinbeck

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Kai.

[Reileyvl]

In the same boat as you! I too look forward to doing the same. Let the journey begin! I owned a 36 Catalina and loved it. Built like a tank and easy to single hand, though I always had wife and kids aboard(which did not always provide the needed assistance It was an 80's model. I am looking for a more modern version in the future as I like the newer transom style with easy water access.

[Tayana42]

Kai, you seem to already know a good deal about boats and boating and yes sailing is a little different. Size to single hand depends on the set up of the boat and the experience of the sailor. 60’ ocean racers are single handed by very experienced sailors. I’ve heard of 120’ schooners being sailed solo. More important is for you to learn to sail and to handle a sailboat. Before trying to choose a boat or a size get as much experience as you can. Many people, including me, advise starting with a small simple sailboat (12-14 ft day sailor). Take a few lessons or spend time on a small sailboat (18-26’)with an experienced sailor. I don’t mean to be too specific about the boat size or type just the idea of starting small so you can feel the effects of wind, weight, sail shape, etc. Then move up to a little more complex boat to continue learning. Your in for a great adventure. Enjoy the ride.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Reileyvl.

[kaisteinbeck]

keep in touch and let me know how you get on.... where are you located?