Need a Tryout

[Pipersix]

I'm an avid small boat sailor for the past 30 years. I'm interested in trying out live aboard cruising without costing an arm and a leg. My soon to be wife and I need experience in large boat handling. Is it best to charter with a skipper or head for a school?

[Sand crab]

Most of the bareboat charterers will let you take the boat with just about no experience. Nada, Zippo. But sounds like you have more than most so you are probably ready. Readier than most. There are some boats that will rent just a cabin so it's more affordable. These usually have skippers. Best of both worlds?
There are also a few sailing schools/charters. Good luck.

[Pipersix]

I thank you for the information. I want to cruise the third week of July. As a long time pilot and active boater, weather and chart reading is second nature.

[Pipersix]

I'll be looking for a great place to sail with my new bride. She loves to be on the water as much as I do.

[Sand crab]

These guys have crewed 60' cat cabin rentals at around $3000 per week per couple. Plus extras.
Search: Bareboat Catamaran Charters
You can get your own smaller bareboat cat for a little more. Older cats are cheaper.

[Multihull]

Just charter a boat for a week or weekend and take a skipper for the first day.
He or she only has to learn you operate the bigger boat, motoring, ankering, etc.

I presume you know how to sail. And that does not change.

[Pipersix]

Yes I sail. I own a sail boat I keep on a mooring in Maine. I guess I will just need a check out. Now that that is answered who should I charter from??

[webejammin]

Where are you and where do you want to go ???

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Pipersix.

PA-32 Cherokee?

[Pipersix]

Yes, I'm the proud owner of a PA32-260..
I would like to sail in July maybe in the Virgin Islands but elsewhere in the Caribbean would work.

[Rubikoop]

Originally Posted by Pipersix

Yes, I'm the proud owner of a PA32-260..
I would like to sail in July maybe in the Virgin Islands but elsewhere in the Caribbean would work.

Just be aware that July is in hurricane season. Statistically most hurricanes occur in September. With that in mind you can anticipate some rainy weather rolling thru every few days as low pressure systems come off Africa.

July is my favorite time of year to sail. Mooring areas are not very busy etc. Seas are generally flat and winds are usually not too brisk. As to whom to charter with, there are many companies based on Tortola. There are a few on St Thomas. There are advantages and disadvantages for each location. You may wish to learn more from active charterers on www.traveltalkonline dot com. Or PM me if you have specific questions. I do many familiarization charters as skipper for 1-3 days originating from St Thomas every year. Any company can provide a Capt to do the same.

Enjoy your trip.

[Sand crab]

July is low season so less bucks.

[barnakiel]

Originally Posted by Pipersix

I'm an avid small boat sailor for the past 30 years.(...)

If so, then maybe a bareboat charter is a good way to start. You already know how to sail a boat now what you want to learn is how to manage all the things one does not do in a small boat. Like NOT placing ones appendages between the ship and the dock.

Start with short day-trips and build your confidence one step at a time.

I think anybody who can sail a small boat is already half way there.

b.