Designer and Builder Opinions Needed

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by Sailcat

I didn't want a sense of clostrophobia when at anchor.

Even a boat on the very top end of what you're talking about will be very small in comparison to a small house. Boats are small. That's the way it is. If you tend towards claustrophobia, maybe you need to consider this.

Do you have any experience living on a boat, even for only a week or two? If not, some crewing, some chartering, a delivery or two--as someone else mentioned--might be a very good idea. You may find that ANY boat is simply too small for you if claustrophobia is a concern.

[Sailcat]

An effort of comprimise! But what fun!!

[Sailcat]

"Do you have any experience living on a boat, even for only a week or two? "
Yes, and I'll update my profile. Sorry. My family has always been into boating, mostly largish power boats. I spent every summer in Bimini with my father from the age of 6 to 18. He had a Hatteras 32(?) and later a 42(?) Sportfisher. When I was in college in Miami, I got the bug for sailing and spent many a happy hour in Biscayne bay teaching myself how to sail. After college I crewed on my brothers C&C 42 sloop during port to port racing. The Mac being one of the more challanging for real weather. So, "have I lived on a boat?" Not in the sense of really "living" on a boat. That's why I'm asking all the questions.

I understand the limitation of space, having been around boats most of my life. What I didn't consider, and took for granted, was the need to be in tighter quarters when the sea turns ugly. I was only thinking of what it would be like anchored. The observation that the Beneteau's and Island Packets are two radically different rides was revealing to me. I guess I knew that from the racing days but I've never been aboard a full keel, cutter, or Ketch to know stability under sail. That was cool to hear from all of you! I'm having a good time listening to all of you.