New folks on the block

[Bob G.]

We are actively researching any information available about true cruising boats, that's why we've joined this forum. I'm a 61 y.o. pilot who is about to retire (permanently) next year and my wife is brand new to sailing but is looking forward to starting a new adventure in her life as well. I've done mostly coastal cruising and Hobie cat racing over the years and am looking forward to cruising for several years. Any helpful information on good used cruising boats would be appreciated ...... Thank you.

[GordMay]

WELCOME aboard Bob G.
I'm certain you'll find lots to entertain & inform you, here.
Don't hesitate to post specific questions.

[Hud3]

Welcome, Bob.

It's really difficult for anyone to give you advice without knowing a lot more about your concept of "cruising". There's a boat out there for everyone, and my choice is not necessarily yours.

There are lots of discussions in our archives on various kinds of boats. Try using this CF-specific search engine (the built-in "Search" doesn't work very well). Some well-chosen keywords should get you started. Then, you'll no doubt have some questions that you can post in the appropriate forums.

Cruisers & Sailing Forum

Good luck!

[Southern Star]

Welcome Bob! I can only echo the voices of experience above - if you get more specific/search past threads, you will find as much information as anyone could possibly want.

Brad

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Bob,
Welcome aboard! Good to have you here. There are lots of definitions about "true cruisers." Hope you can decide on what cruising you'd like to do and pick a boat. If you are looking at any in particular you can mention the name of the boat, i. e. Hans Christian or West Sail in an appropriate thread and you'll get lots of feedback from forum members.
Kind regards,
JohnL

[swagman]

Hi Bob,
Welcome also and great to hear of the goals.
Maybe the term cruiser is best applied to the people and not the style of boat, as one can go almost anywhere in anything provided you've got the desire and the sense to handle the issues that will arise.
But for sure one day a certain boat will appear and you'll fall for her - and for you she'll be your perfect choice.
Good luck.
JOHN

[Hud3]

Here's a link to John Neal's website. There's some interesting information on boat selection here. Of course, it's one man's opinion.

Mahina Expedition - Offshore Cruising Instruction