First Time Sailboat Buyer . . . Any Thoughts ?

[Connemara]

Skabeeb.... the other advantage is that you'll be in contact with a lot of people who will be able to point you to possible boats.

When the admiral and I were boat shopping, we had an agreement -- either of us could veto a boat for any reason however silly. She vetoed one because of the color. (I had to agree ... harvest gold...ugh)

Also, when you do come to buy, consider such things as your relative sizes.... things you can do easily, she might find difficult on some boats.

And that Catalina has a porta-potty, which I would not like. Give me something with a holding tank. YMMV


Connemara

[NotQuiteLost]

Originally Posted by Ex-Calif

Not old school, not low-class - just appropriate for the type of boat. And seriously tiller pilot for about $400 makes life a lot easier. My sense is that autopilot systems for wheels are more pricey and the wheel system adds unneeded complexity for a boat this size.

I was just trying to relay my own impressions of tillers prior to actually working one. Sorry if it didn't come across clearly.

[roverhi]

Got a pickup or large SUV?? There is a Tartan 27 with trailer for sail in San Francisco that sounds like a very nice boat. Newer diesel, lot of money put into it recently. If you like the T27, a great boat, and have the ability to go pick this one up, it'd seems like it would be worth the trip. tartan 27 S&S cruising sloop , diesel, refit

[SuenosAzules]

I have seen some larger Hunters and Catalinas (30-34 feet) from the 1980's going for about 10K lately on my surveys. Some not in bad shape and had everything you described within the state of Florida. You both have to like the vessel and get that warm and fuzzy feeling when you see her. I have owned several larger sailing vessels in the past and have lookied for months, visiting over 20 boats before I found the right one. I guess it is like blind dating! lol.. Remember also, what they ask for and what they are willing to accept is sometimes thousands less.. Good luck in your search.

[JustThinking]

Darn! I wish I'd know there was a Florida surveyor present in this forum about a week ago. Now I already said no to a deal there......... :-(