[jimminychricket]

I have lately been contemplateing leaving with 450 bucks or so to florida. Since I am jobless and finding something that I can be passionate about lacks on land and I am tired of waiting for my chance to start something I can be passionate about being on the open sea and being with other crew. I'm just not sure how I can do it? and If I'l start to find work in the time frame that i would like to with the amount of cash I would have, and have a place to sleep all at the same time, until I can find more permenent work? I would be coming from California.

[nas130]

Jimmy,

You can stay in a crew house for around 150/week. Then save money to take STCW95. When I started yachting I registered for STCW to start on a monday. I went to Ft. Lauderdale on the thursday before and started pounding the docks. I had my first job by mid week of my STCW class. Once you have your STCW it will be much easier for most boats to hire you. By taking the course it also shows you are serious about working on yachts, not just a backpacker. If you come do not forget your passport and work ethic. I would also pack light, yachts do not have much in the way of storage for personal effects.

nas

[jimminychricket]

Yes. I decided I will not go. I have to manythings to take care of. I don't even have a passport yet. I figure stick with a job where I live and atleast save and then get my passport and then go over.

[CaptTom]

J, save a few more bucks also. It's not that cheap to survive over here.
Capt Tom

[MYCaptainChris]

A passport is always useful, just ask my steward who had his stolen in Miami and then subsequently got deported for having no papers. I know not quite the same but you'll not go anywhere without one nowadays.