Looking for an Education in Miami

[Blieu]

My husband and I are planning to buy and sail a catamaran in two or three years, but know very little about sailing. We have books on sailing and read forums and journals, but we need some on-board experience to learn more about the boats, inside and out.

We plan to be in Miami on business July 18-20 and would like to look at some boats and get an education concerning options in the appointments of the boat, for example, dingies, water makers, wind generators, solar panels, plumbing options, etc.

What are our options in seeing boats and receiving this "education" on our weekend?

[Cheechako]

Hmmm... tough one. First you need a big hat and a personal fan for Miami in July! The only thing I can think of is finding docks where liveaboard cruisers might be and just walking the docks and having conversations. Fort Lauderdale might be better for that but I'm not a FL resident so not sure. (spent a bunch of time there though) A lot of liveaboard cruisers are hidden away from the mainstream... and in July they may be elsewhere! You could find some boats avail in the area and arrange to look at them, in the process you would find possible places where you can do what I suggested above....

[Tellie]

I live in S Florida. You can always PM me. I can see what I can do about looking at some Cats and I can always talk watermakers.

[Blieu]

Thanks for the info, Cheechako! We'll probably do that!

[forsailbyowner]

Fl yacht charters in southbeach often has cats for sale. Should be no problem to get guided tour and info from staff.