Greetings

[jacks88]

I found this type of forum to be very helpful in guiding me through the purchase and ownership of my aircraft. Hopefully you folks can help me make the transition from aircraft to catamaran.

The admiral and I are thinking of getting a catamaran to escape the cooler temps and crowds of North America. Nothing fancy, no need to "go rogue" and move completely off the grid, just a portable condo for exploring the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Were thinking of 3 cabin (or a rare 2 cabin) in the 36 - 46 foot range, something capable of surviving away from the dock for 2/4 days at a time.

Like aircraft, the smallest expense seems to be the boat itself. Am I crazy (goes without saying I suppose), or are dock rates in the Caribbean stupid expensive? Do marina owners really demand upwards of $2000/month for docking 38 foot catamarans? Insurance also seems to be a question mark after searching the forums, kind of all over the place. I have been operating small power boats (15 - 21 foot fishing boats) since I was a young man, but no experience at all at the helm of a sailing vessel. We have every intention of paying a qualified professional to teach us how to sail safely and responsibly on whatever vessel we wind up purchasing.

All advice and info is appreciated.

[boatman61]

Welcome to CF..
Like most things in life.. the scarcer things are the dearer they are.
Want suburbia afloat.. gotta pay the piper...

[Waterway Guide]

Welcome aboard! You can easily manage extended periods at anchor if that is your preference and you manage your batteries well (cats are great for mounting solar panels and wind generators). Good luck with the plan!

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, jacks.