Hi Thomas
I have limited sailing experience - all in Etchells 22s. We are fully aware of what we have ahead of us to learn but are 2 very capable people. We will sail as a couple most of the time, with our
family and friends joining for short cruises. I would envisage a
boat of 48-55' with maybe Leisure Furl or in-mast
furling and a few
electric winches to lighten the physical stuff. I am an Aussie, but we have a business in Tulsa, so are looking to
purchase on either East or
West coast US. New boats in the size range are probably outside our
budget, and we are well aware of the cost of upgrading used boats to suit the intended purpose. As far as layout goes, we want 2 double cabins plus maybe one up/down berth
cabin to accommodate expected visitors and
family. I don't really have preference for aft or
center cockpit, although center seems to yield comfortable aft
cabin arrangements.
I have looked at a couple of Bristols from 47.7 to 54.4 and whilst they are beautifully constructed boats, I do not know enough about their ofshore sailing abilities (with centerboard) to comment further. I am also aware from all I have read that
draft and manouverability in tight
marinas can be issues that should be addressed. I guess a bow thruster would help but surely
keel and skeg design play a role in how easy a boat is to handle (especially when reversing).
I appreciate all comments as I am well aware of the limitations of my experience and am open to learn from those who have been doing this for decades.
Regards
Hayden