Three weeks use a year isn't enough to make owning the boat worthwhile. Also, you won't want to be cruising on a boat that's been in bareboat charter for 10 years. 5-6 years max is all you should expect. If you go to 10 years you'll be looking at new engines, you'll have written off at least two suits of sails, loads of other things will need replacing.

I say charter for now and think again in 5 years. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Cheers.gif" alt="" />