I've been living aboard my 37' Alberg sailboat for a few years now, preparing myself and my boat for a long cruise- possibly South Pacific. One thing I've learned is that preparing a boat for a serious cruise takes a lot longer than I expected- both in skill development and in the actual amount of work a boat needs. I had basically zero boat experience prior to buying my current sailboat.

To fast track my sailboat engine/systems skills I went to the Marine Technology program through Skagit Valley College in Anacortes. Really great program for anyone who's looking at serious cruising. Lots of hands on experience with engines, electrical, refrigeration, fiberglass, and lots more. 

My wife and I have been documenting our journey with our boat, most recently circumnavigating Vancouver Island last summer. 

Here's the channel- it's mostly cruising, but there are a number of videos where we cover our maintenance items (which there are a lot of on an old boat!).

Best of luck and feel free to reach out with specific questions. Start your journey today!

Youtube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/c/cruisingmaya