Just bought my first big boat . . .

[HUNTER27Laura]

Well, to me it's big, a Hunter 27.

I grew up sailing on Georgian Bay, Ontario, a bit on the Dart River in England and Lake Ontario, and sailing lasers and a stunning Bombardier model for 30 years, called "Invitation." One week while backpacking in Europe I crewed a 45-footer from Marseilles to Spain. After that, it's been back to little boats and only on a few days in summer at my mom's cottage on Georgian Bay. When my father, a sailor, passed away a few months ago, I used the little bit of insurance money into the Hunter 27, which I believe I got for a steal at $5500.

Now, to sail it. It lives on Lake James in Western North Carolina, about an hour down-mountain from my Asheville home (where I also have a little Galilee-15 on Lake Julian). I'm a poet and writer so will offer some "Words and Wind" creative writing workshops on both so others can catch the spell.

The longer plan is to get a navigation system (she has depth finder which needs a new screen) and learn her ways for a season or two and then go for the coast for some adventuring at sea. My boyfriend and I really want to take her to Bimini and live aboard for a week or so while we search ruins ("Treasure or Atlantis?" asked the young man at the marina shop. We shall see.)

I'm here for the enlightenment and the shared love of the wind. Happy to have found you guys!

Laura

[sailorboy1]

Originally Posted by HUNTER27Laura

Well, to me it's big, a Hunter 27.

Well enjoy all that room then.

[Milfordadkins]

I just purchased my first large sailboat also, 35ft trident warrior and i played around on lasers when younger. So if you have any questions let me know lol. I may have had a similar situation and can answer some newbie to newbie queries

Sent from my SM-G900P using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app

[redhead]

Welcome to the forum -I have found lots and lots of experience here. Enjoy and post pictures!

[Tayana42]

My fist big boat was a 24ft Seafarer. It had a cabin and a head so it was a big boat to me. Best wishes for your adventures on your big boat.


S/V B'Shert

[jeremiason]

My first keelboat was a Catalina 27... I owned her for 7 years and replaced just about everything on that boat except the hull and mast. It was a real learning experience.

I sailed it all over San Francisco Bay. Even spent 1-2 weeks each summer cruising the Delta.

The good thing was at that size, things are not as expensive, so breaking things or upgrading is much cheaper!

I look back on it with fond memories, but today wonder how in the hell I put up with such a small boat :-D

I wish you good luck with your new boat and hope you have as much fun as I did with my first Sailboat!

[Hud3]

Glad to have you here on CF, Laura. A 27-footer is a good size for what you're planning.

I spent a week in Asheville in June, and enjoyed it greatly--lovely town, friendly people, good restaurants, and great beer!

[GlorytoGod]

Welcome, I am looking at buying a boat for world cruising.

[ChurchSkiz]

Congratulations on your boat! I live in Charlotte and am just learning to sail (my first classes are in Lake Norman next month on a Flying Scot and Sunfish).

If you ever want some crew on your rides on Lake James let me know, I'd be happy to drive up for the experience (or just extra company of someone who loves sailing).

[mottseng]

Congrats on the new boat. If at any time you are up in Georgian Bay (Midland area) I would be happy to go sailing with you.