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Old 10-10-2008, 05:36   #1
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How much time do I need to find a boat?

We've made the plan to leave September 1, 2009. The one essential piece of equipment we need that we don't yet have is a boat larger than our Catalina 22, which also needs to be sold. When do I start looking for the new boat?

I'm worried that if I go out looking this weekend, that I'll find the perfect boat too early. I don't want to have to pay for the boat for six months more than I need to while we're still preparing and saving. On the flip side, I don't want to not have a boat come next August.

Obviously, the time will vary depending on the boat being sought out (we're looking for an older ~38' cat), amount of money available to buy (I can't say money is no object), and boats available (in my case, preferably in Florida). Should I start looking now or wait a few months?

Kevin
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Old 10-10-2008, 05:53   #2
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Look now - buy as soon as you find the “right” boat.
If you’re looking for an “older” boat, you’ll need time to familiarize yourselves with the boat, and to perform the inevitably required maintenance, repair and upgrades.
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Old 10-10-2008, 06:57   #3
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Hi there. My best advice is to get out there and find the right boat right away. Also if you can't find the right boat ahead of your launch date, then push back your launch date.

Regarding my own experience, a custom steel ketch was purchased 3 months ago. The plan was to get the boat into the water in two and a half months, to refit the interior, rebuild a diesel, a total bottom job, topsides paint, etc. A total refit. Even getting just the basics done, the bottom job and rebuild, took that period of time. Basically, now the boat is on the water, and I've not had a minute to actually plan the cruise itself. Thus, when estimating time, as one estimates sailboats and money, double or triple your estimate.
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Old 10-10-2008, 07:12   #4
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I would say start looking now and sell the boat you have now, from what i have seen lately it could take a long time to sell your boat.

I sure hope you have a fexable date, getting a older/used boat and this is a guess your first Cat, you may want some training time on it and time to fix things. Even with a turn Key you will find something that needs fixed or you will replace to fit your needs.

Best of luck,

John
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Old 10-10-2008, 07:15   #5
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If you're planning to do long-distance offshore cruising, buy your boat now. Six months will go by in a flash. There will be more to do to get the boat ready than you can imagine at this point.
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Old 13-10-2008, 06:46   #6
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Well, those are consistent answers. I'm off to find a broker. Thanks, all!
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