Boaters' Quiz

[joe phibbs]

Recently, I posted a notice on the HOW, asking for information on my traveling down the ICW as passenger/crew: how to get a berth and what questions to ask. I have crystallized my inquiry. What qualities, attributes and behaviors would influence your decision to accept a ‘stranger’ to accompany you on an extended boat trip? I am planning to hail a berth down the ICW in the fall of 2004. I am grateful for the tentative offers already extended from my February posting. But how to choose the best person, couple or group? Help me prepare a list of those things that would be important. I am going to arrange each on a rating scale from 5=non-negotiable…won’t allow any wiggle room on this item4=feel very strongly that this item could cause us enough trouble to mutually terminate3=that is important to me, but I could live with some inconvenience/change in my life2=this is not really an issue with me1=I have no opinion on that sort of thing and I say, ‘Live and let live.’So, here are the mutual flash points that I have already thought of: please add to my list:Keeping on scheduleChore sharingRough weather transitSkill/expertise/willingness to work with variety of boat systemsHands-on navigation/operation of boatMeals: timing, quantity, dietStorage for personal gear, items, foods/drinksPoliticsHygieneWillingness to accept criticism/direction Neatness in common areasNeatness in private areasAlcohol useTobacco useThanks, Joe

 

[Ned Strain]

Sounds Awfully Complicated

Did you use a similar process to pick your wife? If not, what worked with her? I'm not sure that mutual respect and the other required attributes that lead to harmony can be measured on such a scale.Ned

 

[joe phibbs]

yep ned

Yep, Ned, I understand what you are saying. First impressions and gut feelings are important. But remember that I will be retiring in August, 2004 and this trip will be my first venture down the ICW. This won't be like a college dorm mate that either of us could go to the dean about. Personally, I can watch folks drink alcohol all night but I won't. In fact, the more they drink the wittier I become (to them).But you must admit being either sorry a plane ride ends because you haven't stopped chit-chatting with the person sitting next to you OR you are so glad to get away from that person you might just leap over a few of the shorter passengers. I prefer that you tell me now if you have any hang-ups and I will do the same. Of course, obsessive-compulsive or verbose people need not apply. joe