We dive deep into the boat selection process with Pippa Turton and Mike Firestone. We consider and discuss: what makes a good first boat, what size makes sense, considering cruising plans and goals, assessing your own skills, budget considerations, sailing before refit,  priority features, and more.

Pippa Turton is a long time RYA sailing instructor, who's sailed thousands of miles on a variety of boats in Europe and Caribbean. She currently runs Girls Go Sailing aims, which aims to build confidence in female sailors through good training, and experience.

Mike Firestone is a marine surveyor, who's been in the business for decades. He's sailed many boats and surveyed thousands more!
 

Episode is sponsored by Beta Marine
For over 20 years Beta Marine has been providing smooth, reliable marine diesels. These are 100% mechanical engines, built on the Kubota block, with widely available parts and a 5 year warranty. Beta Marine USA has a new online parts store; plus: saildrives, alternators, custom mounts and feathering props. betamarinenc.com

 
Music by Tim Eriksen