Howdy!

[This Blows]

The wife and I fancy a retirement on a live aboard in about 11 years. We don't know much about sailing, I've played with a J-24 a couple times but that was just playing. So that gives me about 10 years to develop the skillset which will make retiring on board possible and another year to properly withdraw from society and sell off the trappings, so here I am beginning to craft the plan. We're thinking BVI or maybe Cuba (depending on how the politics plays out).

I have lots to read and, fortunately, lots of time to do so. Nice place here. Looking forward to learning and hopefully, maybe some day, contributing.

[jackdale]

That looks like a nice long range plan. It will give time to assess what you really want in a boat and learn the art and science of sailing.

Where are you located now?

[This Blows]

Time is on our side and we're in a pretty good location for hands-on experience too, Tampa, FL. We have ties to the area and would need to be returning every so often.

[jackdale]

You might takes lessons and learn from others experiences (mistakes). But hang around a few racing venues and get some experiences that might cost you a few beers. Visit some boat shows to get some idea about what is available.

Many discussions here about the desirable / undesirable features on boats.

[bljones]

jackdale nailed it. Go racing . walk docks and kick tires at boat shows, then pull the trigger on a training boat of your own.