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WoundedWarrior · 14-04-2011, 03:07

I took shoulder damage in iraq that has left me mostly usable but with limits on how much and in what directions i can lift. Pulling doesn't seem to be an issue.

I am looking into a liveaboard something under 25k that i can support on my va disability. I would like to get something that will take me wherever i decide to go.

I don't mind older boats at all. I have done a lot of woodworking in my life, though new to sailboats.

So any recommendations on a capable but easy solo sailer, that's liveable?

Doodles · 14-04-2011, 03:25

Welcome to CF and thanks for your service.

What area of the country are you looking to start from. Lots of boats out there but you don't want to have to travel too far to check them out. Give us an idea as to where you are so we can narrow the recommendations.

sailorboy1 · 14-04-2011, 03:25

lots of similar threads here, recommend you do a search

welcome to CF

WoundedWarrior · 14-04-2011, 03:44

I'll be in texas soon. Getting released from service in two weeks. Travelling to check out boats might be fun though. Been off my fatboy too long.

I've been looking at the Ellinor. She's on several sites now. Would she fit the bill?

Doodles · 14-04-2011, 04:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by WoundedWarrior

I'll be in texas soon. Getting released from service in two weeks. Travelling to check out boats might be fun though. Been off my fatboy too long.

I've been looking at the Ellinor. She's on several sites now. Would she fit the bill?

Sorry, don't know the boat. Do you have a link to it? Tell us something about it.

Unicorn Dreams · 14-04-2011, 05:06

Welcome aboard CF and Bless you for your service.

We are in Seabrook and may be able to get together some day. Send us a link of the boat you are looking at.

Eleven · 14-04-2011, 05:32

I bought a Prout 31ft boat. Safe and about in your range. Add electric winches and most of your problems will be manageable. A lot of space on-board for gear, food and water so long slow passages are not a solo problem.
Solar panels make a lot of sense on a cruise, reducing fuel costs to near zero. it's just the cooking gas that you'll need, and something to put in the pan.
Add a folding bike to get out of the marina for shopping. And a canoe / dinghy to stay out of the marina. A sailing dinghy would be ideal as rowing against a stiff wind/sea may stir up your old war wounds. There is a range of folding/sailing dinghys. Tinkers? I think.
An old plastic boat will depreciate quite slowly if you do the housework on it. If it's not right for you then you'll be able to get out/off it without too much pain.

Mark1977 · 14-04-2011, 05:41

Welcome to CF and good luck on your endeavors.

**Tellie** · 14-04-2011, 05:43

As always thank you and your buddies for the service. You are all our heroes.

**GordMay** · 14-04-2011, 06:14

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, WoundedWarrior.

I’d not recommend the “ELLINOR” as a first-time boat.
➥ 1936 LINDGREN SHIPYARD Ketch Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com

Doodles · 14-04-2011, 06:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by GordMay

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, WoundedWarrior.

I’d not recommend the “ELLINOR” as a first-time boat.
➥ 1936 LINDGREN SHIPYARD Ketch Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com

75 year old wooden ketch ...OMG

**boatman61** · 14-04-2011, 06:24

I can see why you've fallen for her... she's a beautiful boat and appears lovingly maintained...
As for a first boat... why not...
just get a 'Pro' to go out with you a few times at the begining (for the appropriate fee's) to get your ticket...
and from then on until you die... or give up sailing.... its a long learning curve....

virginia boy · 14-04-2011, 06:38

I can tell you that even if you are 100% service connected, disabled, and get all the dental/med benefits that go with it, and live aboard you wouldn't be able to afford the upkeep on a boat that size and still have a life. I'll leave the sailing advice to others more qualified but would suggest a much smaller boat. My 28 footer is all I can afford on 100% service connected.

**boatman61** · 14-04-2011, 07:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doodles

75 year old wooden ketch ...OMG

This is still going strong at 110yrs.....
Photo taken in '05 in the Azores when she was on her way back from Carib to Falmouth... crew of 1guy and 2 women....
So don't let the age and wood put you off...