I'm planning a trip UK to end in California for around March next
year, and was hoping to stay in Marina Del Rey, Los Angeles, for a few
months to catch up with family around Santa Monica. Anyone out there
have first-hand experience of it? It looks as though liveaboard berths
are not that easy to come by - especially for smaller - only 26ft -
boats. Would it be a good plan to try to get on a waiting list, or is
the (more usual) - just turn up and don't leave, informal, approach
better? Related query is insurance - how expensive is required minimum
liability insurance in US and will recent survey by UK surveyor be
acceptable. Boat is UK flagged.

Any help much appreciated,
David.

although I really don't know the specifics of Marina del Rey, in
California in general, there is a strong sentiment AGAINST liveaboards.
I'm on lists all over, and it's just not easy. Never mind liveaboards,
try even getting a slip! But, having said that, I do have a 40' and in
some cases it makes it harder, in some cases easier. My take is lay
low, slide in, and you can probably do it. I'm a "sneak aboard" my
self, but hangin in there.

good luck and fair winds