I’ve never owned a boat in my life and now that I live near the sea I would love to own a small boat to travel along the coast from one city to another.
I have no experience with boats so that’s why I would love to hear some advice if you have any.
Would you recommend a used one or a new one?
And should I get a sailing boat or a motorboat and what type would you recommend? I don’t think I’ll have enough means to get a boat with a room inside, unless it’s relatively cheap.
And is learning how to navigate a sailing boat a long process?
Not a boat owner, but trained on sailboats: if you feel like it, take sailing lessons and get a feel for it, it’s fun and relaxing. I hate motorboats for the noise, the environmental impact. And it’s kinda dull.
In any case, navigation and boating in general has rules, depending on where you are you may have to get a license.
Got to your local sail club, take lessons. When you’re trained you will be able to rent boats from time to time. Almost nobody sails enough that buying is reasonable. And anchoring in a proper port means an annual fee to pay.
This is the answer right here. Hook up with a local sailing club and take classes. If you love it, make friends with other sailors and rent the club’s boats.
If there’s interesting stuff to see near shore, and the tides are manageable, then kayaking is also great. It’s cheap and easy to get into, and great exercise.
Depending on the availability of crew, skippers may even train you up on their boat.
Thanks! Solid advice. Unfortunately no sailing clubs here but I’ll see if I can meet up with some sailors and try out a boat or two.