Transitioning from fresh to saltwater boating

[markpierce]

Your boat will have less draft in salt water.

[CaptainBW]

We are former Great Lakes boaters now on east coast. You need salt water bottom paint and zinc zinks. Use stainless polish regularly and keep the gelcoat waxed. Much more maintenance in salt water.


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[rognvald]

Rob,
The previous respondents have excellently detailed the maintenance issues you should expect when moving from fresh to saltwater. However, there is another learning curve you must address if you actually plan to use your boat and that is dealing with tides, currents, shoals, tropical weather systems and the ability to read the water. Before buying a boat in South Florida and cruising/living aboard for ten years, we were Lake Michigan boaters with many serious miles under our keel and much real experience. However, moving to the tropics/saltwater was a significant learning curve for us and we spent several years honing those important skills with real time on the water before undertaking more ambitious cruises. This element is one that is very important since it will make your transition both safe and enjoyable whether you intend to use your boat for day sails or set your sights for greater adventures.. Good luck on your new adventure.

[Delancey]

Wildlife is about 10,000 times more interesting once you get off freshwater as there are probably that many more numbers of different species in the oceans. Whales, dolphins, cuttlefish, jellyfish, flying fish, birds, etc.

Field guides are nice to have onboard to identify the things you will see.

[rognvald]

Originally Posted by Delancey

Wildlife is about 10,000 times more interesting once you get off freshwater as there are probably that many more numbers of different species in the oceans. Whales, dolphins, cuttlefish, jellyfish, flying fish, birds, etc.

Field guides are nice to have onboard to identify the things you will see.

Delancey,
I have also noticed this phenomena . . . especially the "wildlife" found on the beaches of South Florida. Good luck and good sailing.