New to sailing; new FP SABA 50 on the way

[svgoodvibration]

Due to some very fortunate circumstances, I will take delivery of a new Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 six cabin (+2 fore peak berths for crew) in BVI in December. The boat will be in charter for a year or two at least, but I will use it as often as I can. I have never sailed, so I am looking for a bit of advice to increase my knowledge and keep me busy while waiting this summer.

I have two thoughts after reading a lot about sailing schools. One train of thought is get all the ASA certifications I can as well as time aboard a cat to learn all I can this summer in Rhode Island. The 2nd train of thought is to get ASA 101 this summer and then just wait until my boat is delivered and hire a certifying skipper to teach me on my boat. The 2nd way seems appealing as it will be personalized and more fun/relaxing.

In the end I want to feel knowledgeable, safe and able to handle situations that may arise as I skipper my own boat, possibly for charter guests some day. My background is power boats of 30-40 ft on inland lakes and a former life as a US NAVY submariner trained in navigation and electronics as a SONAR supervisor. I have a very technical background in electronics, motors, generators and mechanical equipment. I am a super geek and will install as many wireless sensors on my boat as I can to monitor systems performance and health.

Looking forward to joining the fun and relaxation of sailing soon!

Thanks for any advice and comments.