Hi. No experience. Want to Blue ocean cruise.

[shipsneedcanons]

Hi Everybody.

Im new to the forum and sailing. I have no experience with sailing anything over a laser size. I have plenty of power boat experience.

From NZ but living in Scandinavia. I want a boat that will be able to cover big ocean water (pacific etc) in relative safety, however I'm trying not to get into a boat that will impact negatively on living conditions (I would like to scuba, fish, plan to do projects while onboard).

I have been reading, surfing the net, looking up boats for sale and doing cost outs for what seems like forever. I would like a boat that is about 50ft, however I'm buying on a budget. I'm prepared to do up over time, even out of the water for long periods. I would love to hear your thoughts on getting into a boat (good or bad) and also on how to learn to sail it.

Will post more but for now, just saying hello.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, shipsneedcanons.

[capn_billl]

Hi, having just done a similar transition, I can tell you the learning curve is a little bumpy, but doable.

I recommend taking a sailing class on the same exact vessel you plan to buy.

That helped a lot.

Take it slow. Shop around, and be sure you will be comfortable handling the size of boat you buy.

Consider buying, or renting a 30ft, and doing coastal cruising to gain experience.

Don't be afraid to motor, take the sailing slowly in light winds.

Keep marinas close at hand to pull in for repair, or wait for good weather.

I'm in the middle of getting my new boat back home when the virus hit.


Piloting a 40 ft Catamaran, turned out to be both a handful, and easier than I anticipated. Kind of like driving a small floating tennis court.

Cost to operate goes up dramatically with size.

Good luck. Should be some great deals soon.