It is almost always better to pay more for a better boat upfront than get a cheaper boat and fix it up along the way. Cosmetic stuff is fine, but on a 30' boat

It is almost always better to pay more for a better boat upfront than get a cheaper boat and fix it up along the way. Cosmetic stuff is fine, but on a 30' boat, if you are fixing structure or engines, it is going to get expensive quick. And if the laminate itself is wet, you are probably headed for a dumpster. Get a good mechanical survey and a good structural survey on any boat over $10k. I agree with your views on sailing, I've been crusing for a long time, and it honestly is one of the best things I do. Though I leave the computer, tv, at home. I find disconnecting completely for two weeks to be far better than taking my work life out on a boat for a year.