small boat for beginner

[scurvy]

I would second the Catalina 22' (great little beginner boat!) There are a ton out there. Check out the Cal 20, Bristol 24', Cape Dory 22', 25 and even the little typhoon (19'). Decide what your budget is, check the local newspapers, www.boats.com, www.yachtworld.com, and others with the requirements and price range you are looking for and go for it. Lots of great "older" boats out there that are holding up well and would give you the oportunity to cut your teeth in sailing for little down. I would spend as little as possible as was mentioned above...there are docks to slam into, rocks to find, sand to go aground on...not discouraging you, but we have all been there! Just remember that the purchase of the boat is only the beginning, there are repairs, maintenance, upgrades, brightwork, dockage, hauling and storage fees...so I would try to keep the initial costs low...then you can spend the rest of your time and money on the water and not in some yard with a paintbrush in one hand and sandpaper in the other! Welcome aboard and good luck with your search.