Thread: Advice needed - getting started

I've always felt at home on water. I haven't had many opportunities - maybe 30-40 trips between cruises, catamarans, windjammer, sailboats and yachts. For a while now, I've wanted to get a boat but haven't made it past the "wanting to" part before. Now I want to set a deadline to do it within the next year. The problem is, I don't know where to start in figuring out what kind to get or maybe even if it might not be best to take lessons and rent first. I don't know much about types of boats. Whole new world to go from passenger to driver/owner.

Do any of you have suggestions of resources online? Or maybe to give me some ideas on how to approach this? I realize $ factor into things but I am pretty good at coming up with what I need when I really really want to do something. (Although a mid 7 figure+ purchase ain't going to happen )

Well, lets start with what KIND of boating you're going to be doing..
Cruising, sailing, racing, pleasure-boating, paddling, sunset cruises, live-aboard, fishing, snorkeling, etc..

WHERE will you be doing youre boating?

What helm experience do you have? Its tough to help with so little info, but throw out some details and Im sure the crew here will point you in the right direction..

If youre buying something over 50' or with sails or more than 1000hp, Id say take a class, anything short of that and the previous owner or salesman can get you started...

Thanks Waterboy!

No racing, paddling, fishing or snorkeling. I do want an actual living area - at least somewhere to sit/sleep/eat/store food and a loo.

It will be out of San Diego area.

Yup, I do intend on taking a class in general.

I'm just lost at where to start on the general education process. Yes, I've tried Google but when you aren't sure what to search on, it's not easy LOL I'm far from stupid so I know what not knowing about something looks like and that's where I am

Id suggest:


To get you started...

That book will teach you the ins and outs of each type of vessel, then you can decide wether you want sail or power. I personally think sailing is a hassle, but its a very well respected hobby/sport though.. If you plan on boating on open water, Id look for something in the 40'+ range. Not knowing your price range or the number of people you want to have aboard or how long you want to stay out makes it a difficult response.. But the low end would be 40' unless you're just going for a day cruiser then you could get into something 28-35...

waterboy222 knows what he is talking about.

My questions are:
Power or Sail?
Price Range?
How many people would you like on it when you go out?
How many people would you like for it to sleep?

From there I think we can give you more direct help!

Good luck with this process!! Boating is a blast!!