Can a 1989 Hunter 30 handle..

[diverdr]

Hello. I am wondering if the 2 cylinder 18 horsepower yanmar would provide sufficient propulsion to handle the currents running the St. Lawrence up and around to Maine? I'm not trying to make this a "is a Hunter a bluewater boat thread"! lol I have found a 1989 Hunter near by for sale. Would this boat be practical for such an adventure? I cannot leave the 50 hour a week world for 5 years. I may however be able to get some extra time off the next couple of summers and make the trip on two 3-4 week trips. The idea would be to put her on the hard half way, bundle her up, and come back the following summer. My version of go small, go now. :-) Thanks in advance for any input.

[GordMay]

I’d expect the Yanmar 2GM to drive the Hunter 30, at 9700 lbs displ, to hull speed, under neutral conditions, and handle unfavourable currents/winds more or less “adequately”.
I'd expect most "downstream" St. Lawrence currents would be favourable.

[Sailmonkey]

a friend of ours has the same boat/engine. It will push the boat quite nicely up to about 6 knots. Just have to remember the engine is designed/likes to be run up around 3200 rpm.

[AiniA]

We went up the St Lawrence a few years ago and for a time we were travelling with a Tanzer 22 with an outboard and he was having no problems. Going downhill should be just fine.

[diverdr]

Thank you for the responses. I do realize the direction I would be heading would be with the current but was concerned with the tidal currents I have read about here. Can this trip be done at an enjoyable pace in two 3-4 week treks? Does anyone know of any dry storage spots at the aproximate half way point and aproximate costs. And lastly, will there be any implications being a US boat left in Canada for the winter? Sorry for all the questions.

[diverdr]

Man, there are so many choices for my next boat. This Hunter looked nice but after seeing 1980's Cal 34's for only 10 grand more, (mid 30's instead of mid 20's) definitely has me thinking that is the better way to go. The Hunter was tempting because it was only 10 miles away.

[hugosalt]

Good luck with your boat shopping...it's great to have choices...

Experience with Yanmar 2gm 18 hp. ...delivery on friends Hunter 33 early last May from Long Island Sound to southern Maine... after waiting out howling north
wind for 3 days in Pt Judith pond made our way into moderate north winds into
Buzzards Bay under motor alone, boat pounded up bay all day averaging about 5 knots and then continued into canal and up to Kittery, Me. (in light wind) through the night approx. 30 hours straight.
I am a fan of Yanmar as I have a 3gm in my 30tfer... But was very impressed with the little 2 cyl 18 hp it did not miss a beat and very good fuel effiecency.

Of course motor only as good as properly sized/pitched prop.

[AiniA]

Where would you be starting from to go to Maine? Don't think there would be a problem leaving your boat in Canada for the winter but you should check before going.

[diverdr]

I would be starting from Alexandria Bay. Thanks Hugosalt, sounds like it certainly passed the test for your trip.

[AiniA]

I think you do the trip quite easily in a month and have time for weather delays and sightseeing. You will go very quickly down the river (make sure you stop in Quebec City - there is a marina just below the Old Town). Once you get out of the river calculate the distances and divide by how many hours a day you want to go - and then allow for layovers. You may find it most convenient to do a couple of overnights to speed you on your way - for example from Gaspe to Isle de Madalen - or you can follow the coast but it will take longer. If you have the time to spend a couple of weeks in southern Newfoundland you should. It is incredible cruising.