Sorry I haven't been replying, long day at work.
Owner sites are a great idea. I'll make sure and dig into them prior to my in person boat inspections so I have an idea of specific problems to keep an eye out for.
I'm surprised to hear the Watkins weren't built well. I was under the impression they were overbuilt, but not the best sailing boats.
I'll look into the Cals and Columbias some more. If I remember correctly there were only a few that were shoal
draft versions, but I'll look again.
Vanguards weren't on the list due to the
interior space. Being tall I can use every inch in height and vberth possible. I could be wrong on the
headroom in them though. It's a hard # to find. Almost as hard as vberth length!!!
I've been looking hard on Craigslist, Sailboat listings, boat trader, Ebay, Good Old Boat, and local brokers on the
east coast. Seems like I'll find the best deal from the FSBO sites.
I'll look over my list a little closer to make sure I get a boat that will sail well, give us the room we will need and is in great shape...good condition being first qualifier!!!
This is a great help...Thanks everyone!!!
Jeff