Re: 1st Cabin Cruiser
We just purchased our first cabin cruiser. It is a 1986 Bayliner Ciera Sunbridge, only 24'. Any advice, tips....warnings will be appreciated.
1) get used to the way the wind will move you around when docking and undocking....use it as your friend and not your enemy.
2) If overnighting a night or two, precook your meals if possible so you only have to warm them up. This includes coffee!
3) a grill that mounts in your fishing rod holder will be your best friend.
4) Light blankets usually work best...or light sleeping bags if you have them.
5) Get several bottles of "OFF" and leave them on the boat along with the sunblock
6) You will be outfitting a 2nd home so learn to leave things on the boat.
7) We always bring 2 extra carry bags with us. One the dirty laundry goes in...the other dirty dishes. Do the laundry as soon as you get home and bring the clean towels etc. back to the boat next time....do the dishes in your dishwasher...it will save your tank water for more important uses and you will have more time to enjoy yourself versus cleaning...paper plates and plastic forks/knives are a good alternative here depending on what your are eating
8) Bring a couple extra gallons of drinking water
9) Learn your boat systems
10) teach your partner how to drive the boat. (and dock...it doesn't have to be pretty)...in case you are knocked out or have a medical emergency
11) If you have pets, buy them a life jacket also
12) learn how to properly anchor
13) MOST IMPORTANT!!!!! HAVE FUN AND DONT STRESS OUT...its okay...really...