Welcome aboard, Gimme5!
Whilst I can't help you on the boating experience side of things, stuck as I am down south of the border, (VIC), I can tell you that the members here are far more generous with their time and experience that we have a right to expect. They're a great bunch! From my first posts only 5-6 weeks ago, I've already been offered deckie positions when I holiday on the GC soon. Enjoy the ride!