Ultra Noob with a passion

Dear Boat Enthusiasts and designer pros,

I am what you would consider a "Super Nooby". I am a college student who has an unrivaled passion for boating. Now, I love powerboats, but I have been dreaming of starting a project to sail. Obviously my funds are limited but they are available if needed for something I will love. I live in the Midwest (US) and as most of you know, season is crucial.

With all of that in mind, I have a small dream of restoring an old 20' about sailboat and using it during peak season. Now, I am planning a budget of $5k or so, so a 20' is most likley out of the question. Cheaper is better and I do like size . I am decently handy with tools and work on cars as a hobby here and there, so I am ready for some constructive criticism on what I need to do.

I am completely lost on where a good starting point may be, but I think reading/knowledge is first and foremost. I see there is a library here, but I don’t know if I should get a boat building book, or restoration book, etc. I am also possibly looking for a job at a marina (suggestions open in Chicago land area) that would be work for knowledge/food/free storage etc, just not cash. Any help with trying to find a job and approaching a builder etc would be great.

Other than those ideas, I am open to all suggestions and would love to hear what you guys/gals have to say. I also need to learn terminology as well as how to sail.

Help me out and ill thank you a million times,


Eddie

 

check out the lightning class 19 feet. has an active fleet in chicago, and a ton of boats have been built.

http://www.lightningclass.org/
http://www.corinthian.org/lightning/
http://www.corinthian.org/lightning/MWdistrict/
http://www.lightningclass.org/Classifieds/boats_class.asp