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.