Crazy Idea...

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LandVF36
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Crazy Idea...

Post by LandVF36 »

I'm thinking about buying a boat in FL to use 2-3 weeks a year. How crazy is that?
I'd like to find a yard/marina that would look out for it and prep it before I arrive. HHome port somewhere from Melbourne to Stewart on the east coast with plans to cruise from there to the keys and Bahamas.

I have not even settled on sail or power but know that I was something for 4-6 people for 1 or 2 week trips.

The whole point is to get away from MN when it's not boating season ( 7 MO from Oct to April 2hen the water is solid)

I've looked at charters but that seems like a giant premium as most only offer boats less than 10 yrs old. You are basically paying for their depreciation. I figure I can use it 3 times a year and think I can sell it 10 yrs later and do ok.

Any thoughts, problems, a need to set me straight on this crazy plan? Anyone want to join in and share one?
Current Fleet:
2000 Carver 450 Voyager
1991 Thompson 21' Carerra Cuddy
1994 Scout 15'
2005 Caribe LCX9 dingy
1981 16' Hobicat
Former Owner - 1973 Trojan F-36 "Light and Variable"
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gitchisum
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by gitchisum »

If you are looking for someone to talk you out of it, don't look to me for that ! :mrgreen:

There is a nice 53 Hatt for sale in MI that has my intention for the same purposes ( except all winter, not a few weeks)

Go For it!
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horhay1946
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by horhay1946 »

Have you considered relocating to Fl for 7 months when the water is solid. That would give you more time to enjoy southern boating. They your friends would no think you were totally crazy. I think its a good idea if you have pleny of money to burn, because as we all know that the longer a boat is not used the more problems you will find.
1985 Mako 258 (One Owner)
1981 Trojan Tri Cabin

George
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prowlersfish
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by prowlersfish »

I am not going sugar coat it .

You have lost your mind :mrgreen: . Other then fuel you still have to pay for it year round . things go wrong with boat just sitting there , more so then using them .

So you have you boat waiting for you as you head to Fla you arrive ready for your trip . you find one engine will not start and the local shop has a back log . so you spend a few days getting her going only to find she will barley move . That dive service to clean the bottom has only been cleaning your checking account . but don't worry the new diver will be there in a day or 2 and that will give you time to fix the dried out seals in the head

Enjoy your vacation
Boating is good for the soul
77/78 TROJAN F36 Conv.
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RWS
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by RWS »

rent a motel

rent a boat

no worries

no insurance

no repairs

no storm issues

no replacement of canvas or anything else

DREAMS VS. REALITY

RWS
1983 10 Meter SOLD after 21 years of adventures
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Survived Andrew Cat 5,Eye of Charley Cat 4, & Irma Cat 2
Trojan International Website: http://trojanboat.com/

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ramblin
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by ramblin »

i'm looking to get an aft cabin and keep it in Fl and use it as a condo for the winter. Cost of marinas and insurance are substantial not to mention upkeep. Great idea if you're going to get some use of it.
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bjanakos
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by bjanakos »

May as well just buy a condo and maybe your investment will appreciate rather than depreciate.
ramblin
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by ramblin »

With the boat i plan on traveling and doing the Bahamas and who knows maybe Cuba. Can't do that in a condo.
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ready123
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by ready123 »

Consider keeping it on the Gulf side.... you will save money over east coast.

It's not crazy I do it... only problem for me is the weak C$ is making it hurt this year.... costs me 30% more than last year.
Michael
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Done Dreamin'
1987 President 43' Twin Lehman 225SP Turbo
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Safe Cove Marina, Port Charlotte, FL
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LandVF36
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by LandVF36 »

Michael, where do you spend most of your FL time cruising? Do you stay on the west side as well? Do you ever take the canal across and if so, how many hrs'?
When you head back north, do you leave your boat in the water or do they dry dock you?
Current Fleet:
2000 Carver 450 Voyager
1991 Thompson 21' Carerra Cuddy
1994 Scout 15'
2005 Caribe LCX9 dingy
1981 16' Hobicat
Former Owner - 1973 Trojan F-36 "Light and Variable"
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prowlersfish
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by prowlersfish »

Remember he is using the boat a good part of the year vs a few weeks .
Boating is good for the soul
77/78 TROJAN F36 Conv.
6BTA Cummins diesels
Life is to short for a ugly boat :D
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ready123
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Re: Crazy Idea...

Post by ready123 »

LandVF36 wrote:Michael, where do you spend most of your FL time cruising? Do you stay on the west side as well? Do you ever take the canal across and if so, how many hrs'?
When you head back north, do you leave your boat in the water or do they dry dock you?
So far I have not been across the canal but that is on the list when heading to Bahamas. I think 2/3 days is a good estimate for the crossing coast to coast.
I bought the boat in Alabama and have only made it as far as Ft Myers Beach on the west coast since 2012, having too much fun. I prefer to stay on that side as there are better anchorages up and down the GICW as I don't want to have a home marina.
I do leave it hauled & under cover for the Summer to keep my Insurer's happy during hurricane season..... have not found suitable priced covered in water storage which I would prefer.
Michael
Rum is the reason Pirate's have never ruled the world
Done Dreamin'
1987 President 43' Twin Lehman 225SP Turbo
Highfield 310 Ally 15 HP Yamaha 2cycle
1978 F32 Sedan twin 318 Chry SOLD
Safe Cove Marina, Port Charlotte, FL
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