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sgwright · 14-01-2019, 08:05

Hello all,

I've been searching for our first cruising sailboat for about 8 months, and have looked at everything from a C&C 26 to a Westsail 32, and lots in between. So far my favourites have been: Nicholson 31 & 35, C&C 35, but the boats I viewed were either already sold, had issues, or were too costly. Yesterday we looked at a C&C 30 for $25K, which was mint, except sails were tired, and a Catalina 30 for $21K which was in average to good shape, but no furler, and tired sails. Neither boat got me too excited, although the C&C was in beautiful condition, almost like new.

Now, a 1980 Cooper Seabird 37 Ketch has come up for $20K, which is right around my budget. I've read up as much as I can find, which isn't a lot. They have a long shallow keel (4' draft), and don't carry a lot of canvas. I've heard stories like they don't tack well, and won't sail to windward. Others report that tuned properly, they will sail to windward ok. The SA/D of 13 or so means it's not a light air boat for sure.

https://sailboatdata.com/sailboat/sea-bird-37

I'm trying to decide if I should take a ferry to see this boat, or just pass on it. I know it's a bit outside the category of boat I'm looking for, but if it sails reasonably well, it should also provide a bit more comfort in poor weather than most other boats in my price range.

I'm interested to hear from others who are familiar with the Seabird, either in Ketch or PH version.

Thanks

sailandbail · 18-03-2019, 08:13

Did you make the trip to look at the boat? I've had my 1979 Cooper Seabird 37' for about 6 months and love it. I sailed all winter. Not a race boat by any stretch, but extremely comfortable and stable.

sgwright · 18-03-2019, 08:30

No, I decided it was a bit too large for what we want, and probably a bit of a project too, based on the price (although maybe not?). Still hoping to find an Ericson in the 29-32' range. I have seen quite a few locally, but not many are for sale, which I suppose is a good sign. Do you have any photos of your boat? I've seen a few at docks which I think are the Seabird, but have never been aboard one.

Thanks

rbk · 18-03-2019, 08:48

We looked at them seriously for a west coast boat, ideally not suited for offshore work, but with weather windows hops can be made for sure. More a motor sailor but IMO very well suited for the inside west coast/PNW/SE AK. I really liked the engine access on the ones I saw, re powering or major work looked like it would be a pleasure, comparatively.

sailandbail · 18-03-2019, 09:05

I think that you would have been in for quite the project at that sale price. I purchased my Seabird basically set up and ready to go, but the maintenance and upkeep is a massive and sometimes daunting task. I'm thoroughly enjoying the process though and have been lucky enough to take her out 3 or 4 times a week here in the San Juan Islands.

I live aboard and feel really spoiled having all of this space. Just joined this site today- what a great resource! Where are you located?

Take care!
Evan

p.s. Sorry to give you neck strain, I have no clue why the pictures uploaded sideways but don't have time to mess with it now.