Three 20 Year-Olds Planning Caribbean Trip - Help!

[saltyspringer]

Hey all,

Here's the deal:

Three Canadian 20-year olds sailing from November through March/April in the Bahamas/Caribbean area. We're starting out in Florida, probably doing the keys, then heading over to the Bahamas.

The Boat:

We will be buying a boat in Florida. Looking for a boat anywhere from 27' to 32' in size. Given the recent economical situation we figure we can get a good enough boat for $15 - 20 000 dollars, hopefully closer to the 15 end of things. Does this seem reasonable for what we are looking to do?

Insurance:

Really not sure what we're looking at for this. Is insurance on the boat mandatory? recommended? how expensive is it? do weneed new insurance for each new country we're in?

Food, mooring and such:

We're counting that we can live on about $400 a month each for food, mooring and other living expenses. We plan on catching a lot of our own seafood, anchor as much as possible, and really live on the cheap. part of the experience in our minds.

Safety:

Is piracy a big deal? I feel right now that it won't be because I've heard the area is relatively friendly, and we won't exactly be a flashy, touristy, loaded with money. but still i'm sure we'll have to be careful. experiences?

Other dangers? Reefs, storms, wildlife etc?

Lastly, would love to hear some stories from people who have done similiar things.

If anyone has answers to any of these questions it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Daniel