[quicksilver]

Thank you all for your well thought out responses. Lots to mull over but then again, you''ve covered much of the same ground that I''ve gone over in my mind many many times. I think I''ve worn a groove in that part of my brain.

Like most of you said, owning a boat is more than just dollars and cents (sense?). I have been an owner before and I am well aware of the pride that comes with ownership and ability to maintain one''s own vessel. Being able to personalize your boat is even more satisfying. To say nothing, of course, about really getting to know the sailing/living characteristics of one''s own boat over time.

But economics should not be entirely neglected. Also, the ability to charter a brand new boat for 2 to 7 days at a time has it''s advantages. Yeah, you''ve got to plan ahead and spur of the moment sails in the evening are absolutely out of the question. The thing is, with two small kids, it''s rarely if ever possible for us. Given that we have to travel about an hour even to get to the nearest bay marina makes the evening sail an even bigger endeavour.

Another advantage of chartering, as I see it, is being able to try several different boats and comparing which one suits us the most. One place I found (I think I''ve mentioned this already) has a fleet of 30 to 36 foot Catalinas and Hunters. Many are brand new but none are older than 3 years. It''s a shame they don''t have Benateau''s. That would have been a nice comparo.

Also, I think I''ve exagerated the cost of chartering for the season by about 25%. It will likely be cheaper but better to be over estimating than under.

The real reason I am holding back from actually buying a boat (and this is just my rationalization so stay with me) is that it is possible that we may not be living in the Chesapeak area past the end of the year. It would be a drag to be stuck with a boat that is not really suitable for the next area we move to. Caveat: we always try to pick a spot on or near sailable waters.

To tell the truth, I''m hoping we settle down to live on Lake Champlain in Vermont within the next 5 years. I''ve never sailed there, though I''ve lived north of the border in Montreal for many years so I know the area very well. I''m not entirely sure what kind of boat would be appropriate for that lake. But that is another topic altogether.

So for now I think the wisest choice is to take time, sail as many boats as possible, continue shopping and one of these days I''m certain to find a boat that will force a change of heart because it will be the boat I absolutely have to own.

Thanks again for your thoughts.

Safe and happy sailing.