Hello From The Great Lakes

[campuscab]

Hi
Names Tony and I am new to cruising. I have been daysailing for years but I am tired of going in circles on ponds. I joined a sailing club in Detroit and looking for a boat now.
I am going.to the Bahamas as soon as I am expeienced enough. They Great Lakes are a great school. I am vonsidering.buying two boats because my family has a house on an island in NC
I have been reading threads for months and figured it was time to join

[Bluefuss]

Welcome Tony, you've come to the right place.

[gts1544]

campuscab, Come on in. The waters fine! Congrats on your decision to proceed! gts1544

[shorebird]

hi Tony, welcome. I'm not sure if I would refer to the great lakes as ponds, although admittedly, the Atlantic is often referred to that way. What kind of boat are you looking for?

[campuscab]

Something big enough to take to the Bahamas. Solid safe etc. speed and loiks do not matter as much. The problem is I am poor. I need to find something $2,500 to $6,000. Looks like I will be 28 to 32' range. Maybe shoal keel. What do you guys think?

[Waterway Guide]

Welcome aboard, Tony! Live the dream!

[boatman61]

Welcome to CF Tony...
You should be fine with 28-32ft..

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Tony.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha and welcome aboard!
Good to have you here. There are a lot of boats in that size range that will do the job for you. Pick one to talk about here and you'll get many opinions and some opinions will be from owners or former owners.
kind regards,

[campuscab]

I am leaning toward a Bristol or Alberg. They seem to be solid and a good value I am poor so I have to stay lower end. I have a cab company so I do have skills as far as engine fiberglass electronics. I am a Ham also. I don't want a total project but don't mind doing some repairs. I don't buy much that does not need some work. It is so much cheaper that way.