I am considering buying an express 27 and I have some questions on the concept and practice of dry sailing the boat. I am not new to the sport. I had an International Falkboat for about five years, was primary crew on the old IOR 1/2Toner “Sorcerer” for some fifteen years. I have Pacific Cup, Oakland/Catalina race, and more windjammers, and OYRA stuff then I can shake a stick at, but I have literally no experience with dry sailing. Where can I find yards to keep the boat with launching facilities? Is there a list? I prefer the Alameda/Oakland Estuary area but I am flexible. What do dry storage costs look like, and what would the launching fees be? Would it be better to join a club with these resources, and if so which would you suggest? Then the questions about rig set-up and take-down in terms of technique, man power, and time, are enough to make wonder if there is a good book on the subject. Clearly, any information you may have that would point me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated.

Thanx in advance,