'Ten miles behind me, and ten thousand more to go.'
Hi all,
Newbie here, living in
New England. I'm Eric and caught the sailing bug while
racing for a few seasons in
San Diego many years ago. Just turned 59,
kids in college,
single, and starting to get serious about cruising as a
retirement plan.
My intent is to be methodical - signing up for
classes, reading, and volunteering as crew. Lightening my possessions now as I
work toward finding a
boat to fix up/live aboard.
So about that
boat. . . I want to be able to learn to
single hand it when needed, so I can't imagine anything over 42' (?) or so. I'm handy with tools, so I don't mind putting in
repair time,
learning each system as I go. I'm favoring a
ketch, center
cabin, where all lines lead to.
So, I don't know where to start with brands and year made/models. Of course I'd love an Amel Super thing, but I'm probably playing with only $100k all in. Plastic boats don't do it for me.
The intent is to
cruise locally for a while,
learning the boat and acquiring the skills to gradually take longer passages. Thinking
Caribbean and then the Grenadines. After that, the world! Lol.
Any thoughts on the above, recommendations for a good psychologist to talk me out of this, or any wealthy beautiful
women who want to join me - all are welcome. Just wanted to say hi, let you know how much I appreciate all (most) of the good spirited people offering
advice and wisdom. I've been lurking for a while, now it's time to get my feet wet.
Best,
Eric