Crazy Idea...

[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?

[gitchisum]

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

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!

[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.

[prowlersfish]

I am not going sugar coat it .

You have lost your mind . 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

[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

[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.

[bjanakos]

May as well just buy a condo and maybe your investment will appreciate rather than depreciate.

[ramblin]

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

[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.

[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?

[prowlersfish]

Remember he is using the boat a good part of the year vs a few weeks .

[ready123]

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.