[bestfriend]

Yeah, I gotta agree. You need a bigger net to catch your fish. There are sailors a plenty that would love to have some inexperienced schmuck come aboard and install things on their boat in exchange for the experience. And if you want to learn how to install/use something on a boat, there is no better boat to do it on than your own.
One thing that does appeal to me is the companies, i believe there is a sailing school in SoCal, that sail around the world and take sign ups for legs of the trips. you learn everything you need to know about living aboard and sailing the world for extended periods. Its hands on in every aspect.
I don't want to go to the BVI for lessons. i can get that stuff here for much cheaper and learn much more. I go on vacation to go on vacation.
So that is just one opinion from a daysailor/boat owner that is in the process of expanding his horizons for cruising and schooling.