Ahoy!

[Eleua]

I've been fascinated with cruising for some time and am glad I stumbled upon your board.

I don't own a boat, but want to. I also have never been sailing more than 3 miles from land, but would like to go thousands.

My background is in aviation (former US Navy), so I understand much about navigation, systems, and thinking ahead. Hopefully, I can translate those skills into sailing skills.

My goal is to be able to sail a 40-50 foot cat from the Pacific Northwest (Seattle/Vancouver) through the S Pacific, to New Zealand, Australia, and wherever the winds take me. I would also love to sail the Northern Mediterranean, but presently fear sailing anywhere near Indonesia, Somalia, and places like that.

I don't offend easily, so don't be shy. Thanks in advance.

[lynger1]

Welcome

i would buy first smaller boat 30F+ single hull setup for single sailing

spend 12 months getting experience and now you're limitation

Try to go as crew on one crossing and than make op your mind to sell this boat and upgrade saving you allot of money and pressure

Its i good life if you can handle it

[Lighthouse]

Originally Posted by Eleua

I've been fascinated with cruising for some time and am glad I stumbled upon your board.

And a hearty "Welcome Aboard" from me too. You certainly have the right background training to take on the cruising life. We hope to hear all about your plans and final decisions.

Make yourself at home.

[jackdale]

I am biased in this respect, but I would recommend getting some instruction. Rather than learning by trial and error, you can take advantage of the experience of a good instructor. There are lots of schools in the PNW. Latitude 48 has a list of them.

I am also of the belief that "racing improves the breed." The PNW has lots of racing opportunities, some of them like the Van Isle can rapidly provide you with lots of experience.

Go sailing. You are in one of the most beautiful cruising areas in the world. With tides and currents and hazards, if you can sail here you can sail anywhere.

Jack