New to Sailing

[Tom]

I am new to sailing and as with any hobby I get into I have to jump right in it. I would like to purchase a Beneteau 411. I will be sailing to various parts of the Caribbean for a year. There will be 3 people aboard for the most of the trip. Does anyone have any good/bad comments about this sailboat for a beginner and how it will perform in the Caribbean?

 

[Barry]

Welcome to the club!

Jump right in with both feet. No better way to learn by just doing it. Get ready to spend some money...like more then you ever expected. That's why we have jobs...right?Enjoy

 

[Charlie Gruetzner - BeneteauOwners.net]

Be prepared

Tom, While jumping in with both feet is commendable you need to make sure that you have the experience and that your boat is equipped for extended cruising. I am not sure if you are leaving tomorrow, next year or several years away. The 411 will certainly be adequate for that trip with it is properly equipped with alll the necessary safety equipment and redundency systems to allow a safe passage. How about you? How are your navigational and sailing skills, do you know how to maintain and repair your engine and all the systems on the boat. These are just starting points. I would spend as much time as possible researching all that you need to know so you feel confident and ready when you finally cast off the lines. When you leave would you go with a rally or as a single boat? what is the offshore experience of your crew. I think it will be a wonderful adventure but you want to make you sure you are as ready as possible I wish you smooth sailing and fair windsCharlie

 

[Dragonfly]

Have you considered lessons?

Tom,There are lots of great places for sailing lessons. We've taken lessons on basic sailing through coastal navagation. Although several of our "experienced" sailor friends thought lessons were a waste of time, we've learned a lot in a few years and have skills they may lack.Lessons might be through a good company or hiring a professional captain/instructor for a week of intensive training.The $3-5,000 investment for a week with a professional instructor is minimal compared to the $170,000 + you will invest in a B411.