Quote:
Originally Posted by GenesisCaptain
1. What would be the best location for a first time bareboater taking into consideration cost, ease of navigation and moorings.
2. What location is easiest and cheapest to fly to.
3.What location is best for being able to get off your plane and on to your boat quickly.
4. Are there any companies that have boats under 30' and if not, with our experience to you see any issues with us qualifying.
Thanks in advance for any insight.
Mick Haensler
|
Mick...I will give you my opinion on your questions but first, I would suggest that you WILL have difficulty qualifying with any of the major companies. You might try to get an ASA or equivilent set of certifications for keelboat in the interim. Altenatively...you might try either qualifying for a flotilla cruise or take a captain on for 2-3 days of the trip until he certifies you as qualified. Now your questions:
1. Abacos Bahamas.
2. Abacos Bahamas
3. Abacos Bahamas
4. Not that I am aware of.
Despite the above...I would encourage you to go to the BVI's for your first cruise. It is another world. Join a flotilla and no worries! Get a mid-30's sized boat. Don't be scared...it will be easier to handle than the C22...REALLY...and you need it in those conditions!
EDIT...Just noticed that no one else has the Abacos...most are probably not even aware of them. Moorings has a base in Marsh Harbor there & they are EASIER than the BVI or USVI...40 minutes from Miami or Lauderdale and you can be on your boat in a 10 minute taxi ride from the airport. The water and the reefs are BETTER than the BVI's but the land is flat and unattractive and it is not open water sailing. I did a rather extensive thread on them
here. Those of you who have done the BVI's already might wanna take a look!