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KnotCrazy · 03-05-2016, 14:07

As far as your experience - YOU have to be comfortable. Hire a Captain for a day and see how you feel and what your weaknesses are - you will probably surprise yourself in a positive way. On the others - living on a boat with anyone is tough - kind of like a marriage (who is in charge when). We have sailed as a couple and with another couple - both went fine. Our first round solo was a definite learning experience but you do find out your strengths and weaknesses. We learned a lot at the end of the day talking with other Captains and grew our skills. Consider a flotilla (we've done several). Other Captains to lean on if necessary and independence too.

Dr. Sea · 03-05-2016, 21:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by scarlet

We have actually been looking at the Abacos...

Don't do your first solo charter in the Abacos. There are certainly some good features of the Abacos, but as a fairly experienced sailor I found the Abacos somewhat frustrating. Due to so many shallows I found the sailing to be rather "constrained." The cruising options were limited, and I spent a lot of time planning on how to avoid shallows. I'm not saying that you shouldn't go there, but don't start your chartering career there.

So where should you start? I recommend the British Virgin Islands. It's the easiest place I know of to sail. There are many charter companies to choose from and they all can supply a captain for two or three days to get you started. With deep water and many harbors, constant and consistent wind, and many islands to visit, it's a wonderful place for any sailor, but especially for novices. Your etraining and experience are more than adequate for BVI, but you can hedge your bet with a captain until you feel comfortable sailing as a couple on your own. Get a manageable sized boat; 38-41 feet should be about right.

slanyon · 03-05-2016, 23:31

Do a RYA Day Skipper course. That way you will have a globally recognised qualification and the skills you need to go as a couple if you prefer. You need the RYA for charters in Europe for example.

Dr. Sea · 04-05-2016, 04:50

Quote:

Originally Posted by slanyon

Do a RYA Day Skipper course. . . . You need the RYA for charters in Europe for example.

Not true. RYA is ONE way to satisfy the certification requirement in Europe, but not the only way. ASA and US Sailing and other organizations provide internationally recognized certificates and are more readily available in the USA. The OP stated that they have already completed some of these courses.