Buying a Boat

Thinking of buying a cruising boat? Whether for weekends on the lake or a trip around the world, there's a lot to think about.

Info on everything from where to start in the buying process to naming your boat and learning her systems.

Checklist for Going Cruising

Published on September 11, 2018; last updated on April 30, 2021 by Nica Waters

Want to go cruising and don’t know what to do to get you there? Follow these 10 steps and I’ll see you in the anchorage! [More] Checklist for Going Cruising

Tips for Going to a Boat Show

Published on August 17, 2018; last updated on November 23, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

How can you make the most of your time at a boat show? Learn how to make a plan for the show so that you do everything you want. [More] Tips for Going to a Boat Show

New Boat Checklist

Published on July 18, 2018; last updated on March 31, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

Ten documents, legally-required gear and arrangements you must have when you buy a boat. Checklist with exactly how to get each one. [More] New Boat Checklist

Catamaran or Monohull?

Published on June 22, 2018; last updated on June 30, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

We’ve owned, lived aboard and cruised both a bluewater monohull and a small coastal cruising cat. So I’m often asked which is the better boat. [More] Catamaran or Monohull?

Finding the Perfect Boat

Published on June 20, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Planning to cruise? Looking for the perfect boat? Tips to help you find her. [More] Finding the Perfect Boat

Buying a Boat: Handholds

Published on May 30, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Looking at boats to buy? There’s so much to remember to check out even before you have a survey to get into the guts of the systems. One more thing to check out for safety. [More] Buying a Boat: Handholds

The Magic of Boat Names

Published on May 29, 2018; last updated on November 28, 2019 by Nica Waters

5 things to think about before naming your boat – and how Nica’s boat got her name. [More] The Magic of Boat Names

Three Reasons to Go to a Boat Show

Published on May 15, 2018; last updated on July 30, 2018 by Nica Waters

Thinking a boat show is only good if you’re shopping for a new boat? Nica outlines 3 OTHER reasons going to a show is worth your time and energy. Hope to see you in Annapolis in the fall! [More] Three Reasons to Go to a Boat Show

Two Clues

Published on April 29, 2018; last updated on September 21, 2018 by Lin Pardey

Is cruising different on a smaller, simpler boat? Obviously yes, in the boat. But in other ways as well? See what Lin Pardey has to say about the consequences of “go small, go simple, go now.” [More] Two Clues

How Big a Boat Do I Need?

Published on March 6, 2018; last updated on July 30, 2018 by Nica Waters

Trying to figure out how big a boat you need to comfortably cruise? Nica changes the question and helps you get out cruising a little faster. [More] How Big a Boat Do I Need?