Down Easter 38' input

[DewTheDewDude]

Hey there guys,

Not exactly sure how this thread works, but I'd like to give it a shot.

Been looking for an upgrade to my Catalina 30', been checking out the market daily and I keep finding myself back at the cutter ketch rig. This one in particular strikes my interest and is in my price range.

1976 Downeaster 38 Cutter Ketch Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com

I know it's suppose to be <$30000, but I've talked with the guy to lowering it closer to that, because of my ambition to repower it.

Any thoughts? Any experience with the "classic" hull style? Or with the make?

I'm from Southern New England, so the Down East style boats have always interested me, whether it be power or sail. Was looking for some other opinions as well.

Was really just looking for all around feed back for this boat. She has all the electronics, liveability and sailability I believe I'm looking for, well for at least sometime.

Kind of looking for a rig that could hold me over for about 5 yearsish..

She'll be an old lady by then, but I've looked up the history on the boat, and she has been in Lake Champlain for most her life. All fresh water so that gives me hope! Also they say they tended to "overmake" these boats, and especially in that time era. I will still regardless get her surveyed.

I'm kind of on the edge so I'm really phishing for some thoughts on pushing me too or from this vessel. I really do love it..so far, but it does seem a bit plasticy for me.

Do you guys perhaps have other suggestions?

Thanks for all your input in advanced!

Happy Thanksgiving!


P.s. had posted this question before, within a thread but decided to make one of its own. Sorry don't mean to spam.

[FSMike]

Delivered one from Florida to New York and back a few times.
Really liked her. Not a light air rocketship, but still pleasant to sail in light airs. Well built boats.

Spent about 12 hours plus running south in a 30-45 knot Northeaster once and she wasn't bothered with two reefs and a partially furled genny. Should have had the staysail out instead of the genoa in my opinion but it wasn't my call.

We did have an exciting 15 minutes of 65 +/- knots which disturbed the crew but the boat just went screaming down the waves. We were discussing dropping the main entirely when it calmed down to a relatively sedate 40 knots.

Most of the ones I've seen were cutter rigged but I have seen at least one ketch. I think you'll enjoy her.

[Steadman Uhlich]

some previous discussions about the Downeaster 38 boats:

https://cse.google.com/cse?cx=011403...038&gsc.page=1

[denverd0n]

Here's an owners group where you should find lots of info...
http://downeasteryachts.com/