Neal and Jeff

Thanks for your response, and great advice. Obviously, my ambition is
larger than my
ability. Perhaps the same thing that killed John Kennedy Jr. and passengers,
To much plane
and not enough pilot.

I failed to mention I have had some time at Sea. I was a commissioned
officer in
the Naval Reserve unit in my home town for 12 years (O-4). I have spent
approximately
two years on active duty assigned to Coast Guard duty in the Gulf of Mexico
and
3 months or so total time in summer camp at sea training in San Diego . Even
with the excellent
schools years ago. A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.

And I certainly don't profess to be a quantified sailor.

I had considered that I would need to hire at least (2) qualified crew. In
fact I believe
to use the Yapluka I referred to In Mexican waters I would have been
required to
use a certified Captain of Mexican nationality in order to insure the
vessel,
because of the level of non-experience I have.

I assure you I understand the risk involved and appreciate your advice.

I will re think my ambition. I think the crew time is a great idea. Maybe
someone will
let me cook.

I have always said Boat People are the greatest people in the world.

Thanks again for good rational advice.. I'll slow down fly the piper cub
before I start shopping for a twin engine plane.

With that said what would you suggest I consider as a learning curve boat.
Do you think at 54 I am to old to become somewhat proficient at sailing.
I am in good health and in fairly good shape, but I am certainly not 25
anymore.

GaleB.