Sailboats are fun, plain and simple. Any proud sail boats owner will tell you that powerboats just don’t give you the same thrill of being close to the water, feeling the wind in your hair and the ocean spray on your face. To buy a boat is the dream of many Americans, although it is not always practical. The care and cost of any boat exceeds reason if you live in a climate where you may only use your boat a couple times each year. It is a good idea to find a friend with a boat or take a sailing vacation, get your feet wet, before you leap into anything.

Length is one consideration when looking for a sailboat to buy. Remember that “size does matter” when it comes to boat prices. This is not just for the boat itself but also for the monthly docking charges at the marina. Of course, if you still want that ultra-long one but don’t want to pay the fees, then you can always grab a little rowboat and anchor your boat out in the bay. A small sailboat is better for day trips, sailing in regattas and zipping around.

However, if you plan to sail on longer journeys, then you will want to buy a boat that is sturdier and less likely to capsize. If you are plowing through choppy water, you will be more than glad you opted for the longer deck. Also, longer sail boats that range from 25 to 35 feet often include enough living space to travel, relax and take a break from the elements. Of course, you will need a helping hand if you buy a bigger one so be sure you have a committed partner before making your purchase.

You’ll also want to have a budget in mind while looking at sailboats. Brand new boats are expensive and usually do not come with sails, rigging equipment and other gear you will need to get your boating hobby started. On the other hand, used boats for sale can come with these extras and save you a lot of money. It makes sense to have an inspector check out your boat before you buy, just as you would have a home inspector look at a prospective house purchase. You should also check out the Blue Book value of your boat before you buy, as you would with a used automobile purchase.

Sail Magazine’s “Best Boats of 2009″ can help you search the best sailboats. If you are looking for a long luxurious yacht of a sailboat, then the Outbound 52 is your sailing vessel, which also won the award for the “best deck/cockpit.” For a light-weight, high-performance catamaran, try the Moxie 37. Another high performing boat is the Santa Cruz 37.

For smaller sail boats that are less than 25 feet, the Bug is a fun ride. To cruise in style, the Hunter 50 has everything from a built-in coffee maker and extra linen storage to a swivel captain’s chair and Jacuzzi tub. The Tartan 5300 was chosen for “best system,” which has all the electrical controls within reach for quick access. Happy boat hunting!

So you are all sunblocked up and ready for a relaxing day on the water with your friends and family. but not so fast! You may already have all the equipment and supplies needed to make the boat legal on the water, but what will you need to make the day fun and enjoyable for everyone?

Well, consider first who will be coming with you on this trip? Is your family coming out with you, a bunch of your friends, or just you and your girl out on the lake for the day? There are different boating supplies needed for each. Also keep in mind how long you are staying out on the water. Is it a day out, or will you be camping out for a day or two?

If your family is coming with you, you should make sure that you bring enough boating supplies for everyone. Bring plenty of snack foods, and stuff for lunch. Kids always love chips and dips, but consider staying away from sodas. Having hyperactive children cooped up on a boat is no fun for anyone. Be sure that you bring plenty of water and juice to drink while on the water, as dehydration can happen pretty easily when out on the water all day.

If you are cruising with your friends for the day, bring whatever kind of stuff you all like to eat. A cheese and cracker platter can be good, and finger sandwiches like ham salad are a good choice as well. Just be sure and keep the supplies out of he sun and cool so they don’t spoil. Again, be sure to bring plenty to drink. Have plenty of beer in coolers, some wine coolers for the ladies, and some other non-alcoholic drinks for the non-drinkers and everyone else to rehydrate. Keep in mind that the captain of the boat should not be drinking, and you can get a boating while intoxicated just as easily as you can get a driving while intoxicated in your car.

If it is just you and your girl, you should bring much more romantic foods. Wines are always in order, and more expensive foods in general. Strawberries are great, especially with champagne and good cheeses. Seafood such as oysters or shrimp can complete the meal, as long as they are carefully stowed and kept cold beforehand. Candles can complete the atmosphere, floating on the water at dusk.

Any overnight trip will naturally require more boating supplies than a day trip. Plan for multiple meals for everyone coming with. Pack simple breakfast items like granola and fruit. A simple lunch is also recommended, such as sandwiches and chips.If you know your exact route, you can plan for dinner at a waterside restaurant, or stop somewhere and cook yourself. Don’t forget pack gear for sleeping as well, depending on where you will be sleeping at night.