I have read that book, I would also recommend The Cost Conscious Cruiser and Buy, Outfit, and Sail. Get Real, Get Gone was actually what started me down my path other than a childhood appreciation for sailing.
My debt is an unfortunate side effect of getting divorced, but I agree fully that getting to zero debt is ideal. I still have two years of paying alimony, and since I pay more in alimony a year than I have in debt my finances will be in great shape when that happens. I can't actually cast off for good until my kids are adults, so that gives me 10 years to reach true financial freedom. Until then, I'm just limiting my expenses and plan to get a capable sailboat that I can sail on the Great Lakes and then ultimately take out onto the ocean.
I do plan to handle most repairs as well, as an Engineer I have an aptitude for how things work and should be able to learn whatever I need. I don't anticipate doing paid work when I start cruising, but I'd probably be in a good position to help people with any marine electrical issues but that would be more pro bono for enjoyment.