Online class overview
Buying a cruising boat is exciting, but it’s also one of the most expensive decisions you’ll make on the water. This online class gives you a clear, practical framework for evaluating boats, avoiding common traps, and choosing a cruiser you’ll still love after the honeymoon phase.
Who is this online class for?
This online class is for sailors who are thinking about buying their first cruising boat, upgrading to a more capable cruiser, or narrowing down a shortlist in a crowded market. It’s also ideal if you’ve been boat shopping and feel overwhelmed by opinions, online debates, and conflicting advice. If you want a calmer, more logical way to evaluate boats and make a smart purchase decision, you’re in the right place.
What will I learn?
In the online class, sailors can expect to learn how to evaluate the big decisions (design and construction) and the real decisions (comfort, payload, maintenance, and resale). You’ll leave with a set of criteria you can apply to any boat, plus a buying process that helps you stay objective, avoid costly surprises, and make confident tradeoffs.
List of topics:
- Boat Design Essentials: 10 types of cruising boats and what they’re best at
- Design Red Flags: negative design aspects to avoid before you fall in love
- Keels, Cockpits & Control: keel types, aft vs. center cockpit, helm position, transom choices
- Rig and Power Choices: sloop vs. cutter vs. ketch, plus engine considerations that matter offshore
- Construction Checklist: hull and deck construction, hull-to-deck joint, bulkheads, tank materials, mast support, chainplates
- Steering and Structure: steering system design, load paths, and what to look for in critical systems
- Qualities of an Ideal Cruising Boat: comfort, safety, performance, payload, maintenance, and resale value
- Buying Smart: when to purchase, market pricing trends, where to look, purchase options, and the post-purchase refit/outfit plan