Seeing the world by boat is a great way to go, the best in my opinion, but what kind of boat? Basically, there are two types; sail boats and power boats (also known as “rag baggers” and “stink pots.”). Each has their advantages. Let’s take a look at just what those are.

Before we get to anything else, let me start off by answering the burning question most asked by sailors, non-sailors, friends, family and the curious: How much does it cost?? There are various ways to respond but I like this Zen answer the best: as much as you’ve got!

There are as many ways to cruise and live on your boat as there are boats out there. How much does it cost to live where you live now? Hong Kong is way more expensive than Ojai, California. Ojai, California is way more expensive than Rio Dulce, Guatemala. I know; I have lived in all three. I have been happy in all three, too.

Once you buy your boat your expenses can drop dramatically. Of course, if you buy a fixer-upper like I first did, (and did again with my second boat, slow learner that I am) then

There are three basic steps, each harder than the one before and the last one truly the hardest of all. Here are the three steps and we will talk about each:

1. Learn to sail/handle a boat – pretty obvious, right?
2. Buy a boat
3. Go

The third point, Go, is the most important.

Learning to sail

Learning to sail is fun and it is actually rather difficult at first. You need to learn what all “the stuff” on board is called, particularly what the names of all those ropes. Just remember, there are no “ropes” on board a boat; they are “lines.”

If you remember one thing, remember that! It will set you apart from the landlubbers.

(Note: On bigger boats there are two places a “rope” may be found and called as such: the rope that rings the bell used in fog and the rope used as a handhold on a passerelle).

There are