Welcome aboard. I mostly definately agree with the other posters concerning your physical
safety, but a simple background check should help you resolve that, along with a vita and
references. A
skipper who objects may have something to hide. Also, gut feelings are more often correct, so commonse sense and little leg
work, should help you resolve that issue. My girlfriend are heading south in three years and to help us get ready we joined the local Sail and
Power Squadron who offer a great many
classes, from Seamanship, Celestail
Navigation, Piloting, Sailing and Cruing
classes. They very from 6 weeks to several months for the advanced classes, once week at night. You get some certifiction accepted by
insurance to help reduce your premiums for that marvelous day you get a boat of your one. The cost is realatively in expensive, $50 annual dues and $40 per class. Further, you might meet and be able to get to know some who has a plans for taking off and needs a mate. If not you'll meet many a boater with lots of milage under their keels briming with knowedge and happy to share it. Good luck. My girlfriend also said you come with us but she also mentioned a pine box, so lets not go there. Fair winds fair lady and fellow adventure.