I don't know what the local sailing scene is where you are. Are there any yacht clubs? Is there much sailing there? Any
racing?
If there exists a club and
racing program,
crewing on someone else's
boat could answer many questions regarding the physical demands of the sport. If you get your own
boat a strong young junior sailor makes an excellent labor-saving crew.
The suggestion of a partner was a good one, I think. It is possible to find one that would be interested in sharing the operating expenses in return for instruction,
crewing opportunity, and occasional use of the boat, no capital buy-in required. I have been offered this arrangement in the past.
It sounds like you want a sailboat and it is my observation that most people will do what they want regardless of
advice.
You mentioned a
Catalina 27 and that sounds appealing, but the previous
advice that smaller boat=fewer demands on oneself was good advice.
You will want a
keel boat with a substantial
outboard motor. Perhaps something like a
Cal 20,
Catalina 22, a J22, or a J24.
Walk the docks, prowl the yards, chat up the yard manager, the guy at the end of the yacht club bar (and the bar tender).
I think your ground tackle should be the heaviest you can handle. Remember, you will be sailing in difficult waters--strong
current, vessel traffic, breezy days, and an inhospitable shore always at hand. Should an
emergency arise you will appreciate your
anchor and
gear. No Danforths.
Good luck and keep us posted
Paul
De Oppresso Liber