I am looking into buying a used boat for doing some offshore cruising
(e.g., from southern california to catalina or the channel islands),
as well as some fishing. The boat should have amenities for
accommodating my family (2 adults and 2kids) for a weekend. I am
looking for something in the 30 to 40 foot range.

I am new to boating. I am currently taking a boating course at a local
power squadron and will start taking private lessons on the operation
of larger power boats (30ft and over) in Marina Del Rey.

Any suggestions or comments as to the type of boat I should be looking
at will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

CM