Newbie aspiring live-aboarder, looking for skippering practice in Chicagoland.

[Salada]

Hi cruiser community!


I fell in love with sailing when I was a kid and attended a day camp on the Hudson River. I ended up working as a counselor at the camp, but was unfortunately too wee to buy my own boat. I have missed sailing ever since and, 10 years later, I've ridden a bicycle solo across the states, I've had plenty experience living in tight spaces and on tight budgets, and I am looking to resharpen my skills and stop throwing money at landlords.



I'm also a non traditional premed student, and since COVID has thrown a wrench in my plans, I think this is the perfect time to give my dream of living on a boat a try. I'm currently in Chicago, caring for a family member and taking online classes, but my fantasy is to cruise down the Mississippi to the Gulf, and eventually make my way up to Seattle for a more permanent marina/living situation.



Tips and suggestions are appreciated, and if you're in the Chicago area and would be open to helping me get more hands on experience, I have been isolating since March, and have built a PAPR mask, which I would be very happy to wear while cruising.



Be well,


Georgina