This guide helps aspiring cruisers pursue their dream while minimizing the drama. Jeff and Jean walk you through the five-step plan, from building skills, setting a budget, choosing a boat, understanding the buying process, and learning your boat after purchase. Because buying a boat can be complex and expensive, they highlight the key steps that help you move from landlubber to cruiser with confidence.
STEP 1 – Sample the lifestyle. Learn to sail.
- Experience living aboard
- Take sailing lessons and attend boat shows and seminars.
- Choose a sailing school that fits your style.
STEP 2 – Get time on the water.
- Go day sailing and try racing.
- Charter on your own boat.
- Sail new places and build experience.
STEP 3 – Buy the right boat This session will focus on this step.
- Key points to consider before you shop.
- Examine other factors: Insurance, financing, other options.
- Potential “land mines” in the shopping / purchase process
- What you need to know about the purchase process.
- Brokers and Contracts
- Surveys, Surveyors, and Survey Day expectations
- Closing Process and steps
- Important checklist for after the purchase.
STEP 4 – Learn your boat.
- Get familiar with your boat and its systems.
STEP 5 – Get advanced training.
- Continue your education with advanced training.
