Chuck - A man in search of the right sailboat.

Chuck, these boat shows are a great place to learn what your options are on a boat, but don't buy a new one! You can get great deals here in the Caribbean on used sailboats. Many people buy them new with the idea that this is the lifestyle for them, and after the crossing decide this most certainly isn't the life for them. You can pick them up used in good condition and cheap. Or pick up one of the charter boat cast offs. The charters need everything in mint shape to get their big bucks, and tend to sell off the boat after about 5 years use. Lots of life left in them, but minor wear renders them unusable in the charter business.

Besides, it is a lot warmer down here than in Raleigh!

InParadise