First post, first boat...

[bazza-b]

My first post on this Forum, hi. As a beginner I’m full of questions but will try to limit them to a couple of crucial ones. Having had very limited experience with motor-sail on the Broads (wherry with a drop keel) years ago I’m thinking of buying a (of necessity) cheap (of preference) old motor sailer (now live in North Notts UK near the Trent) and learning again… First question: is this a good idea? And is there a stretch of water where I could safely renew the acquaintance (the Trent isn’t tidal round here but probably too restricted/demanding for a novice…). And a second question: what are the key points I should look out for in making a first purchase, I’m thinking of a cosy 24’ sloop type with a small diesel engine… does that sound about right?
Thanks…. bazza-b.

 

[BlueLancer]

I carn't offer any advice but you will get plenty on here, some of it will be tongue in cheek.Welcome to the forum, happy sailing

 

[Peterduck]

A couple of recurrent costs which you will incur is (a) somewhere to keep it, and (b) insurance for your boat. You can get ball-park figures for these before you buy a boat. The cost of somehwere to keep it is largely determined by the boat's length, and can be alarming. If you cross this hurdle with your enthusiasm still intact find a yacht surveyor (such as John Lilley, who posts on this forum) to represent you and make up for your inexperience. His services will be expensive but worrth while as they will save you from buying a hole in the water into which you will pour more money than you ever thought possible.
Peter.