Hire before we buy or not?

[Marshian]

Tiller over a bit, to steer away from dry pubs and back towards the OP! From what you've said, you've decided not to hire first, and I think you're right. Sounds like you have a pretty good idea what's involved by now.

 

I bought my first n/b last year, having never hired. I had owned small (20' ish) cruisers before, first on the Broads, then later another on the T&M. I was looking forward to more space, and better facilities, which my 36' starter boat provides. I then did a 'baptism by fire', having to move the boat from Sawley, where I'd bought it on brokerage, to the mooring I'd arranged on the Middle Levels in Norfolk - vertical learning curve!

 

I say go for it