Old boater, new to cruising

[SwampNut]

I've owned a few day boats, and have piloted some cuddies for limited overnighters. We recently bought a 29' express cruiser with the intent of doing 2-3 day weekends and work up to a 1 week vacation. We are landlocked and will be primarily on lakes (some large ones, 50-60 miles long), with occasional trips to the pacific (S. CA).

I'm hoping to pick up things that the day/overnight boater wouldn't know or be concerned with. Since my family spent a lot of time in RVs when I was a child, I'm part of the way there in understanding how to live in a small space with limited resources.

Rule #1, nothing goes on the boat that does not have a permanent place.

[CaptainK]

Hey SwampNut.

I am from Arizona too!! By protest!!

Live in Phoenix. Welcome aboard to cruiserforum.

Hope to see ya onboard often?

This is a good forum. Lot's of old salts onboard. With plenty of knowledge. I joined months ago. And still have lots to learn.

Once again welcome aboard.

[SwampNut]

So any tips on great places to buy from and get service here, and those to avoid? So far I am really happy with Scottsdale Marine, and won't ever deal with Tempe Marine again. The West Marine store in Mesa is nice, have you been to the one farther Northwest?

Do you do lake cruising or drive out to CA/Mexico?

[CaptainK]

Sorry SwampNut.

No, on all accounts. I cannot help you out. I presently do not own a sailboat. Nor have I dealt with any of the so-called marine stores, in the Phoenix metro area. No boat. No need to deal with them stores?

I have never sailed around in the rivers or the lakes here. Eventhough I did hang out around Lake Pleasant, a few years back. But no cruising there.