Most world cruisers that we run across (
tahiti,
tonga,
bvi,
bahamas,
mexico, are in the mid 30 foot range. Most are just two people, a few are
single handers All living the life ! Good on them.
For the two of us, we like about a 36 footer. ( we are both 5'6". very fit, and just do not need a 55 foot vessel with 8 to 11 berths down below.
Mid 30's for two people, Erica and I, we can sail and handle
deck duties , reefing, proper sail shape, hauling up
sails, and lower a main that we can easily flake as compared to man handling and flaking the main on a 55 foot boat.. on my own.
Also with a smaller vessel, we have more choices of
mooring availability and docks or slips with a mid 30 as opposed to a 55 footer.
Easier
anchoring, less swing room, and handling the chain and
rode. And, being able to
anchor using the required method for the conditions. Problems can occur, like skippering a 55 foot sailing vessel, and having the pleasure of hauling up all chain when the
windlass tanks. I used an extra line and repeatedly tied rolling hitches to the chain and cranked it up with a large
jib sheet
winch and handle. A few yards at a time.
Will the OP be sailing with paid crew, or knowledgeable crew, since that 55 footer is muy large.
Also , totally agree with other posters a sea trial where the OP rigs the vessel, hauls up and out on the
sails, re-sets the sheet blocks, tacks, jibes, trims the sails,
single handed. Also, should be able to
dock , or pick up moorings or
anchor, single handed.
How are the reefing systems set up, for each boat, and can you reef them down, single or double reef, single handed. ( or will you always have a good knowledgeable crew ? ).
For ocean passages, a well built sailing vessel , that the two of us could handle easily would be preferred, for us, in the 35 to 37 foot range.
Again , this are our personal requirements, not necessarily those of others.
We were not there, but with a proper sail plan, main and
jib, the hans should do just fine on a beam reach. Reefed down, and proper sized jib sail.
Also, run the traveler down to leeward. I believe she is
cutter rigged which adds different sail plans to use.
Recommend and agree, that the OP, gets out there on the ocean , and sails each of the vessels, understands the boat systems,
rigging, sail trim, coming about, jibing, heaving to, raising and lowering the sails. Trimming on all points of sail,
Docking, line handling, anchoring,
mooring pick ups, etc.
Then, yahoo, what ever feels good to the OP, he will have a better idea what fits his abilities and comfort zone as well as confidence.
Also, depends on what the plans are. Ocean passages under sail, or motoring in local waters. How many knowledgeable seaman/
women on board when the OP heads out to sea on his new vessel.
Lots to take into consideration. Another positive thought, a real live few hours of sailing, and handling what ever vessels he plans to
purchase might go a long way as to which boat is right for the OP. No huge financial mistake.
We personally cannot make that decision for him, too many variables involved that puts the
purchase back on the OP and what he wants in a boat.
Regardless, lad, Fair winds, and fun times, and grand sailing adventures are on your horizon.