Buying a boat – we hope
Continuing where I left off on the Boating for Two Dummies story, we may have found the one for us. I can tell you it is a very good idea, if you are first time boaters, to take the time necessary to find the right one. There is so much to learn and the more boats we saw the better we became at asking the questions and doing our own visual inspection.
We did manage to secure a slip at a Marina which in itself can be quite the hassle as many marina’s have waiting lists in Vancouver and surrounding areas. At one point we wondered if we would just be setting up deck chairs with drink in hand staring at our newly rented slip and no boat.
What was nice about looking at boats in Marina’s and privately, was how friendly the people are. This appears to be a whole other world where people still acknowledge each other as they walk past, get to know their neighbours and extend invitations to upcoming events. We were invited to join clubs as soon as we get a boat and to me it looked like the party had already started. This friendly atmosphere is in stark contrast to the daily existence within our own neighbourhoods. I like it!
We met a very nice couple this past weekend and truly enjoyed seeing just how much care and pride they had in their boat. Sure they are now looking to move on up to accommodate grown kids and grand-kids, but still this boat appeared to hold a special place in their hearts. What I also enjoyed was sitting and talking, we had a very interesting conversation that I won’t soon forget. Pleasant surprises made it worth the ferry ride and 45 minute drive to get to their cabin.
I highly recommend this hobby or lifestyle depending on how you look at it. I haven’t even got started and I am excited for the future. My husband has discovered that he loves looking at boats and could have continued inspecting more if it weren’t for that “NEED TO MAKE A DECISION BEFORE THE SUMMER IS GONE, DEAR!”
So here is hoping that this is “the one” and that it will turn out well with the final survey. We both can’t wait to be setting sail for one of the many beautiful locations that adorn our west coast, or just hang out at our slip, either way its “Cheers…to new adventures.”
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I experienced boating and boat ownership many years ago, when we lived near San Francisco…Although we enjoyed the experience, It gave me a sense of perspective and increased vulnerability.
I well recall one occasion, when my then husband ,tried to reassure me, when a much larger ship appeared to be on course to cross our bow…”Do’nt worry…We have right of way!”
Not much comfort when you are in a CAL20 sailboat and a San Francisco Bay Ferry is looming high above you and you pray that they know and will adhere to that rule .
Seriously though, if you acquire a boat…there will be three people in your relationship.
Yes, that would be scary… certainly you would have eyes glued on that ships approach.
This is a nice compromise as I wanted to go camping again, or look at purchasing a lot/cabin somewhere. This is the middle ground for us both with the added perks of kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and dining area. (Didn’t bother in that sentence to place in boat language to describe any of that)
But, if my husband wants to assume right of way or play chicken with a ferry/ship I will bail quickly and hope his life insurance is paid up.