Looking to buy my first cruiser

[ALman]

Looking at 30-40ft cuddy cabin cruisers for a first cruiser purchase, approx. $150,000 to $200,000.

Will live on cruiser at some Carribean ports, and intend to go throughout the Carribean, including Bahamas and along the Eastern coast of central America. Mostly will be alone after I learn electronics, docking and seamanship better. Looking at Chapparal 33 Signature and PearlSea 33 and 36 ft boats.

Request suggestions on electronic equipment and functional living options. PearlSea is in Mediterranean. Can either of these boats get back to the Carribean with an experienced Captain? All recommendations would be appreciated. ALman

[haw1961]

You would need something with a small single diesel and plenty of fuel capacity. You need to figure out the nautical miles of your longest planned passage, and, make sure the boat you buy has a range greater than that with a very conservative reserve.

[boatman61]

You'll need something that can carry fuel for 3000+ miles if you follow the Canaries-Caribbean route...
Further N you can hop from Portugal to the Azores.. 900 miles -/+..
Azores-Bermuda.. 1200 miles +/-... Bermuda-US... 700-900 miles...
If you cant figure it out yourself buy a 'How To' book and an Atlas...
Just ship it FFS... Sheesshhhh

[ALman]

Never thought to ask about "shipping" the boat back. Very practical approach and thanks for adjusting my thinking on this.

I'm checking engine options. Present gas capacity is 800 gallons and I'm looking at the smallest twin engine setup. Getting info. on single engine and expected range with those options. Very helpful and thanks. -ALman

[eyschulman]

Sometimes sailboats are a better choice. That may be the case for what you intend.

[boatpoker]

I think you need to do a little more research. No 40' gasoline powered boat will come close to doing what you want to do with it.

A 40' cuddy cabin !!! ...... is there such a thing ? if there is, it is not suitable for what you plan.

[beachbum29]

Originally Posted by boatpoker

I think you need to do a little more research. No 40' gasoline powered boat will come close to doing what you want to do with it.

A 40' cuddy cabin !!! ...... is there such a thing ? if there is, it is not suitable for what you plan.

I think he means an express cruiser.