GL: New to Big boats and the loop

[Fred Ennis]

I have several questions:

Can anyone recommend a list of must read books and guides for first time
big boat operators and first time loopers?

Do I need a captain's license? Can I get captains licenses in 2 or 3 days
of intense schooling say in Florida or somewhere?

Should I charter a boat first to get experience and decide if I like going
slow?

I would like to do the loop 1 or 2 weeks at a time. Taking vacations from
my job. While trying to decide if the cruising life is for me.

Any advice and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks,

 

Fred