Next message: Rosalie B.: "Re: [world-cruising] Re: Cheap mooring East Coast US, suggestions"
Dave,
I'm going to try to avoid giving you advice about your plans, as that's not
what you want. I will point out, though, that we'd all be worse off if it
weren't for people taking a chance, a risk, reaching a bit farther. In our
lifetime, there have been many sailing pioneers who have done what others
thought was impossible or foolhardy. And we've all benefited from their
experiences. So, go for it.
Though I have no right to do so, I will ask one consideration of you.
Please do this adventure alone. Your willingness to sacrifice should not be
imposed upon others, unless you *know* they agree with your viewpoint. And
please leave explicit instructions upon your departure that in no
circumstances do you expect rescue agencies to come to your assistance. I
spent a career in the US Coast Guard. Many of my shipmates put their own
lives at risk trying to save a foolhardy sailor. It's not fair to them or
their family to assume that risk, because you choose to learn "on-the-job".
I can't give good answers to the questions you've asked in the subject of
this message. I will say that you should plan to be no further north than
North Carolina if you want to sail locally in the winter. Once you get to
Virginia, you run into freezing temperature and the potential for frozen
creeks and streams. Many of the marinas I've seen in North Carolina are
reasonably priced, especially those that are some distance away from the
ICW. You will have to be concerned about draft. North Carolina does have
the advantage of some wide water, where you can learn a bit about sailing
before inserting yourself into the ocean environment.
Finally, be aware of local taxes. Out here, all the states that have a boat
tax issue a decal ("sticker") that gets applied to the boat to show that
you've paid a tax. If the boat doesn't display such a sticker, you can
expect to be stopped frequently. It's a hassle. You should either be
prepared to pay whatever the local tax folks want, or be prepared to move
fast and frequently, with one eye peeled for the revenuers.
As an example, Florida will want 6 percent of the sales price of your boat
if you stay in the state for 90 consecutive days.
--
Best,
Bryan Genez (KB3HMZ)
"Capella" Valiant 40 #158
Annapolis, MD
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