John,
Pick up a free copy of "Latitude 38" at any West Marine, any
brokerage, or any harbormaster's office. In the classifieds you will
usually find a few ads from people offering "on your boat"
instruction. Hire somebody for a couple of hours to get the tips you
need, then practice, practtice, practice. If you have a 26' inboard
single-engine boat, be prepared to have some excitiing times!
Handling one of those in close quarters, at slow speeds, when the wind
is blowing you around can be a real challenge!
Good luck with your new boat.
Mike
An SF sailor



"John Broadus" wrote in message ...
First time boat owner needing some tight quarters powerboat handling
instruction for a 26' cruiser on SF Bay.