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

cetaylor gave this response on 5/11/2000:

I am glad to see that you plan to seek some type of instruction about boating. My best advice would be to start this instruction BEFORE you start looking for a boat. The U.S. Power Squadron and the Coast Guard Auxiliary both have excellent boating courses that will give you a little more insight into the type of boat and boating activities that would appeal to you. These courses are held on weekends and evenings in order to avoid interference with occupational pursuits. In addition, the instructors in these courses have a lot of experience in boats of all types and could be of great help in advising you of the problems and advantages associated with each type and/or brand. If, as you mentioned, you are truly interested in supplementing your income through use of your boat, you will be required to have a U.S. Coast Guard Captains license and this is also something that you will want to look into. As you probably know, everyone you ask will probably have a different idea as to the best brand of boat, engine, etc. on the market. As for new/used, this is a decision that is generally based on ability to pay. There are many excellent used boats, but there are others that conceal problems. While new boats also have occasional problems, these are generally covered by warranties. If I were in your shoes, I think that I would begin getting some experience in motorboating before I rushed out and paid $100,000 or more for a boat that turned out to be less than what I found that I needed. Most people buy and own three or more boats before settling on the one boat that they wish to keep for a long period of time. A used starter boat would seem to make sense, but joining a club whose members owned boats of the type you might be interested in, would make a little more sense. In this manner, you could actually take part in the boating activities at a fraction of the cost of a boat, while learning first hand of the advantages and problems associated with boat ownership. Check with your local Yacht Club, generally listed in the local phone book. Talk with the Commodore and explain your situation and what you wish to do. He can probably direct you to a boat owner or owners who will assist you with your dream.