Seaman apprenticeships ?

[hcbartlett]

I am owner of PDQ 36 since ''97 and am preparing to retire and go cruising. But first I want to go somewhere and spend time learning more about rigging, marine diesels, 12 Volt systems etc., skills they didn''t teach in Medical School. I don''t think I can get all this from books. Any suggestions for hands on apprenticeship? Am in Midwest but am prepared to travel.

[gershel]

Hi,I also own a PDQ 36.Have you tried the PDQ owners website.There are quite a few owners in the Great Lakes area. Most of us are pretty knowledgable about our boats & would be willing to help.The website will probably cover everything you ever wanted to know about a PDQ
Marc Here''s 2 Life

[JohnDrake]

Hello

I am not sure where you could apprentise for things like diesel and electrical work. Most of this type of work is done by independent contractors in boat yards. They may have liability (isn''t this always the case) issues. I do know, however, that there are quite a few really good workshops and courses you can take on marine engine repair 12V systems etc. I have taken some in the Annapolis area in the past and felt them most helpful (especially the engine course...as I was always having to sail into the slip :O).

I am sorry I cannot point out any one source for information in your area, but I would think if you asked around or searched the net, you would find some.

Best of luck.

[VIEXILE]

Woodenboat School in Brooklin, Maine. Classes start up in Maine in May, but they also have classes elsewhere, as I recall. Ever''ting, mon. Diesel, outboard, surveying (I did two weeks fibreglass/wood of surveying years ago). Neat place. Potato gun fights used to be the after-school entertainment, but they probably quelled that. It''s just down Eggemoggin Reach from Joel White''s boatshop. KW