Thinking about starting sailing

[ARE4]

With two new rescue dogs holidays are changing. Daughter suggested buying a boat for long weekends and short breaks (possibly with the ulterior motive of being able to use it although her idea would be something with sails!) Thinking of 4 berth cabin, motor cruising. No preference as to area, Broads, Lake District, or rivers around Cambridge or York. I would look to moor rather than tow. Looking to spend £10-15000. Any ideas or help gratefully received as I don't know where to even begin looking, or of the plus points and perils of owning a boat.

 

[Philiz]

Hi. Can't help you I'm afraid but your post seems to have been overlooked so I'm posting to bring it up the list a bit.
Come on guys, newbie after info!

 

[Greg2]

Welcome to the forum.
We started on the Broads and bought our first boat on the Great Ouse in Cambs.
There are a number of options open to you but your budget will limit choice. Probably worth looking at brokerage websites (e.g. Norfolk Yacht Agency, LH Jones on the Great Ouse) on inland waterways to get a feel for what you might be able to afford and what you think will meet your requirements. Also worth visiting to look at some boats so you can weigh up the pros and cons - every boat is a compromise and it is what is right for you. Don't take the asking price as what you will have to pay....consider offers.

If you are staying inland then a single engine with shaft drive is likely to be the least costly to maintain. Boats with outdrives are a little more expensive and complex to maintain but the outdrive means the engine is right at the back of the boat, leaving the rest for accommodation and usually a cockpit above the engine.

You will need to factor in purchase costs i.e. you will need to pay for a survey and a lift out to facilitate the survey. If you buy in one location and intend to moor in another then haulage costs should be factored on.

Annual charges will vary depending upon location but will include insurance, mooring fees (location and length of the boat will determine the cost) and waterways licence. Maintenance costs will depend how handy/busy you are but the engine will need servicing, anodes will need replacing annually and anti-foul will need to be done annually or bi-annually - again a lift out will be required here.

Probably worth bearing in mind that the first boat probably won't be what you really want as using will let you see what really works for you.

This might sound like a lot to contend with but don't be pt off - it's all part of the joys of boat ownership.

 

[Searush]

First think carefully about how you will use it. Get that right & your first boat will suit you for years. Try a holiday afloat - Blakes, Local canal hirer or whatever just to get a feel for the issues that may give you problems. A boat gets very small when it rains & enormous when it needs painting/ anti-foul or polishing! Chat to owners in marinas to find out why they bought their boats & what they like/dislike about them. Get a few books from the library "Narrow Dog to Carcassonne" is quite good, or "The art of Coarse Cruising" by Michael Green (rather dated now - but the general spirit is still true!

Good luck!