Anonymous asked this question on 5/11/2000:

To my chosen panel of experts: Although I enjoy most activities connected with the water,I must say,I know little to nothing about boating. I intend to start taking instruction,probably on my next vaction. Is it to early to be thinking about the typ of boat to purchase or am I getting ahead of myself? Should it be a new or used vessel? How large should it be? I have some vague ideas about semi-retirement ocean travel and using my boat to supplement my income by carrying passengers to go fishing,snorkel, diving,etc. I have been looking at some of the mulititude of magazines on the subject and a Trawler about 47' to 55' seemed to fit the bill,am I on the right track? Which company manufactures the best boat of this type? About what should I expect to pay? I thank you in advance for any and all advice you Have to offer. Novice

bill60 gave this response on 5/16/2000:

I strongly suggest you go to your local coast guard aux. and take a few courses on boating and seamanship. Then get a charter on several styles of boats or trawlers to see if you like them and if you can handle a boat of that size.

Don't make the mistake of buying a large trawler or yacht just because you preceive that the thing to do or buy one because you can affort it.

You can find many groups of yachting people in your age group that would love to chat with you about the pro's and cons of large yacht ownership.

Good luck friend, move with caution. P.S. There is no perfect boat, period!