What boat would you recommend for our cruising

[tuffr2]

Talking to people. One thing to know sailors love boats, the ocean and everything involved. They will be happy to talk, and talk and talk. Lot's of real life advice.



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[Scout 30]

While maybe not the most attractive design out there the Morgan OI's have a reputation for being built like tanks & are quite roomy for their length. However, they can be prone to hull blisters so get a good survey. Also, a boat this old should not have the original standing rigging. Perkins are good motors & parts are readily available but you should have a mechanic check it out.

[Island Time O25]

To OP.

Also keep in mind that with any 35+ yr old boat your biggest expense will rarely be just the selling price but more often the refit and replacing aging systems, etc., especially if you want/need to do any trips out of sight of land. Unless of course you are very handy yourself and/or have a ready access to marine pro buddy/mentor type of situation. I was lucky in that regard and my marine pro friends saved me a ton of $$ once I got the boat. Also while looking for a boat establish a relationship with either a decent DIY boatyard in your area where you can find marine mechanics, f/g repairers, etc or take a course or two on diesels, systems, etc. - will be money well spent. And this forum is a treasure trove of information on everything boat related.

So basically if your total budget is only $25K try to keep the selling price at no more than $12K or lower. In today's market if the asking price is $18K it's OK to offer around $10K and most likely you'll get it for $12K or less. And there is no reason to pay more than $5K for an early 1980s or older 30footer unless it is in show room condition. Then it may be worth another $3-5K. Sad but it is the reality of today's boat market.

[s/v Beth]

If your wife likes them, then a Wharram might be the way to go. I think multi's have the advantage in the Caribbean.

[barnakiel]

I know many people who love Bahamas say the boat should not be to deep. Think draft.

b.

[a64pilot]

Originally Posted by s/v Beth

If your wife likes them, then a Wharram might be the way to go. I think multi's have the advantage in the Caribbean.

I'd agree, but total budget as I understand it is 25K, if that's total, he needs a boat well under that 25K

[Don C L]

That Morgan might be a very good choice if it really is in "excellent" condition. Blisters may be an issue but it seems to me most blisters do more damage to a selling price than to a hull.

[valhalla360]

If you haven't rulled them out, some of the older smaller catamarans can fit in your budget and offer some great advantages in the area you are talking about with very shallow draft and great stability at anchor.
- Catalac 9m
- Gemini 3200
- Endeavor 30

[Paul J. Nolan]

Originally Posted by reed1v

yacht clubs are private clubs that do not entertain strangers coming onto their property asking questions.

Some clubs are more welcoming than others. Some expensive some not. The way to get into any club is to crew for a member. You will be welcomed at any club at which that boat is racing all season long. Many very good clubs are simple places and inexpensive. Join one. Even a Laser sailor from Lake Podunk will be welcomed for lunch at the New York Yacht Club if he calls ahead, talks to an officer, introduces himself and asks permission to lunch at the club.

Get creative. Where there's a will...

Paul