32' vs 36'?

[laika]

Originally Posted by Oday e-pod

Go for the 36, or twofootitis will sneak up on you.

On the flip side of that.. there will probably be times where a couple more feet would be just great for this or that, whatever size you buy. If you and the wife can be content on the smaller boat, that would be the way to go IMHO.

[Stu Jackson]

Some smaller boats are bigger inside than some bigger boats. For example, the Catalina 387 has a similar (but opposite sides) layout to the Catalina 34 and is two or three feet longer. Down below, the saloon is, if not the same size, actually smaller. Go figger...

Good idea to check them out personally.

[barnakiel]

I would simply try to get the better boat.

b.

[CS Cruiser]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

I would simply try to get the better boat.

b.

Well put!

[scuba0_1]

Try to find the larger better boat. If you're worries is being able to sail it once you learn to sail the smaller ones you'll wish you had the bigger one. 35 36 is great

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[Jdubbery]

This is a hugely helpful thread! My wife and I are planing on living aboard, (she's even more excited about it than I am) and are contemplating a eerily similar set of circumstances. The fear I have is in learning on a bigger boat, versus being comfortable enough to enjoy the space.

I appreciate the info. Though I find it frustrating when people comment and say, "you don't know enough," or "go get more information"?
I mean, that's why we're here. This is is one way to learn more and get more information.

[scuba0_1]

You can learn on a 32 or 33 the same as you would a 36

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[OldFrog75]

Originally Posted by Jdubbery

I appreciate the info. Though I find it frustrating when people comment and say, "you don't know enough," or "go get more information"?
I mean, that's why we're here. This is is one way to learn more and get more information.

There are a number of ways to interpret comments like that: 1) you need more experience sailing on different boats before you can make an informed purchase decision 2) you need more training before you can think about sailing off into the sunset 3) you need to find out if your significant other will really enjoy pursuing the dream 4) you need to investigate how much it costs to own and operate whatever boat(s) you're interested in purchasing.

They all sound like reasonable suggestions and require additional effort on the part of whoever is seeking advice...

[Pete7]

If you are both going to be on board long term don't forget that it isn't just 4ft of difference but wider and probably has more head room so less likely to cause cabin fever if it has been raining for a week.

Pete

[malbert73]

I think fairly big difference between 2. I would look for newer model of used Catalina 36. A proven design that sails pretty well. Don't spend all your boat funds on the purchase. Remember to leave plenty for upgrades and maintenance so you don't feel boat poor. So if 36 stretches your budget go smaller so you have plenty left.
Also remember new boats are far from new cars in reliability and trouble free use.... So some including me think its a waste of money to buy new


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