A Week on the Water: From Florida to Locks in New Orleans
Ep 4 Learning to Drive a Sailboat - https://youtu.be/WUOKcEoyUS4
Ahoy there, shipmates! Join me on a nautical adventure as I embark on a week-long journey, leaving behind my family and familiar shores to explore the world of sailboats.
So, what's the reason behind this sudden departure? Well, it all comes down to one thing: sailboats. You see, my family and I have been contemplating the idea of buying a sailboat. It's been a topic of discussion on our Facebook page, and while I may be all in, my husband Todd is still a bit unsure.
But fear not! We're not embarking on this journey blind. We've armed ourselves with resources like "Sailing For Dummies," countless YouTube videos, and the guidance of some expert consultants. These invaluable resources have been instrumental in helping us navigate the choppy waters of boat ownership.
One piece of advice that's stuck with us throughout this process is to get on as many boats as possible and sail as often as we can. And what better way to do that than by volunteering as crew on boats? I've already had a couple of opportunities to volunteer locally at some races, and now I'm off to join a crew delivering a boat to Kemah, Texas.
Flying over Pensacola to meet the crew, I'm filled with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. While I may not get much sailing experience on this trip, I'll certainly learn a lot about living on a boat – from docking to anchoring and everything in between.
But our boat search isn't just about finding any boat – it's about finding the right boat for our family. With six of us on board, including three girls and a boy, we need something that can accommodate our unique needs. Our ideal vessel would be between 44 to 48 feet in length, with at least three cabins and a set of bunks for the kids. And of course, it all has to fit within our budget of under $100,000.
As I sail through the waters, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and wonder. From swimming in the ocean to navigating locks and bridges in New Orleans, each moment is a new adventure waiting to unfold.
So, join me as I navigate the highs and lows of boat shopping, and stay tuned for more updates from the high seas. Fair winds and following seas, my friends – the journey is just beginning!