This has been the longest we have been off the boat since we got her 2 years ago. We have had no adverse news from the skipper keeping an eye on her. And no hurricane scares. But still, what will we return to? For one thing, a lot of work to get ready to cruise. We have been consuming all the wonderful published insights from friends on Take Two, Windtraveler, Irie, and all the other Manta owners too. And we will be putting that to work as we dig into our 5 page To-Do list of preparations. Just today, I was making up a detailed list of items for our ditch bag. And our Amazon wish-list has more than 100 entries of gear and supplies awaiting purchase (and we just spent the last year getting rid of all our Stuff!). And that's only the purchasing. The work tasks are immense as well.
One really valuable aspect of Manta catamarans is the vigorous and committed owners group that provides access to all the experience that exists with these boats, ie the current & past owners. Sure, other production boats have owners groups. Unlike Catalina, Hunter, etc. with thousands of boats, Manta only built 127 boats and yet the owners group is incredibly active and effective. The most experienced gladly help the newbies with everthing from finding engine parts to sail trim. And the newbies follow suit. We get together in meet-ups, the next one is at Annapolis, and, thanks to Clark Haley, the tradition of Manta Migrations is up and running again. Hope to join in this April in the Abacos.
But to do that, we have to get the boat ready, us ready, and GO!
Greetings - I have been following Escape Velocity and saw your question about health care - which led me to your blog. We are in much the same position about 18 months behind you. Will be looking for a Manta 42 next year and would love to hear more about how it worked keeping her in FL while you were waiting to get cruise ready.
ReplyDeleteWe have a similar health care situation - Still 10 years out from Medicare/SS and my wife has had 2 cancer scares so difficult to insure. As Washington State residents, our health care exchange under the Affordable Care Act should work to our advantage. We plan to budget about $500/mo + deductible expenses. Frankly it's pretty much catastrophic coverage as medical costs in Mexico and most cruising areas are so much less than the USA.
Please keep us posted as you wind your way through the health care maze - and best of luck on starting your new cruising lifestyle!
Jon & Merry N.