What's the better boat? Cherokee vs Cal-30

[Max Sail]

I'm considering 2 boats, but am torn. Which would you prefer or think is better?



The 1967 Cherokee 32 appeals to me more since it's less 'plastic' looking than the Cal. Has teak combing, nice wood interior with wood floor. Has fiberglass decks molded to look teaked. Has roller furling, and is 2' longer LOD. Probably will cost a bit more to buy and refit. Hasn't sailed in 5 yrs. (will be electric converting engine, so engine is a non issue). The fin keel and exposed rudder make it less of a passage maker, and more of a coastal cruiser. I've read opinions that their not really suited for passagemaking, although originally marketed as an ocean racer. Would be ok for Lake Michigan, but would prefer a boat to take across oceans at some point.








The 1966 Cal-30 has longer waterline, although 2' shorter. The full cutaway keel makes it a better passage maker. Its a trusted bluewater boat. closer to me, so less shipping fee, probably cheaper, seems to need less restoration, and is a better known brand. Boat hasn't sailed in 2 years. No teak in the cockpit, which is practical, but I don't like the bare plasticky look. Interior has spartan laminate table and bare fiberglass floors..not much charm. The low freeboard but high cabintop looks a bit goofy, but I could probably learn to love it.






The 1966 Cal-30 has longer waterline, although 2' shorter. The full cutaway keel makes it a better passage maker. Its a trusted bluewater boat. closer to me, so less shipping fee, probably cheaper, may need less restoration, and is a better known brand. Boat hasn't sailed in 2 years. No teak in the cockpit, which is practical, but I don't like the bare plasticky look. Interior has spartan laminate table and bare fiberglass floors..not much charm. The low freeboard but high cabintop looks a bit goofy, but I could probably learn to love it.





Which direction would you go?

Any thoughts or insight on either model that I may be overlooking?

[Max Sail]