First let me say that I know nothing about
boats other than what I have learned in the last 6 - 9 months. However, my signifigant other and I have decided in the next 5 years we are going to sell everything and
live aboard.
Our goal is to
live aboard for a few years and continuing to
work while prepping for
retirement and cruising the world, or at least the
east coast and
Caribbean.
Requirements are a large queen berth situated so neither of us have to climb over each other (her #1 as a matter of fact), ability to coastal or
blue water sail, and of course a sturdy
boat with good sailing characteristics.
We have examined many
boats, first serious contender was the
Endeavour 42 (which is still on the list). We then looked at the factory boats but they all look like their woodwork was done by Ikea. I like catamarans (lots of room and fast) but alot of
money.
So, after much
internet time and with the input of a very salty friend I arrived at the Bristol 43.3. She is a very good sailing
boat (thanks Me Hood), center board that will allow shallow access, nice
center cockpit design with HUGE aft stateroom and berth.
The boats I am seeing have already had the
electronics and roller furling/in mast/boom reefing added, so they are good to go out of the box.
What I am looking for is anyone that has experience with these boats, and to get their impressions, things to look for, things that go bad, areas of concern, as well as how well does she sail, how fast, etc.
Any help any of you have would be very much appreciated.
Thanks,
Captain Phil