Help with First Sailboat

[Sunyata197]

I know that this is a tired subject, but I would like updated advice given economy, and my personal preferences. I retired early, 53, and have been an armchair sailor for thirty years. I have been in a sailboat club in Minnesota for two years on nothing more than a 27 footer. Have had very limited experience on the Gulf. I do not care for a starter boat that would become an albatross for me in a year or two. i have always bought ahead of my skill level and worked into it so I didn't have to upgrade soon. I like headroom, being 6'4" (Norwegians in Minnesota, u betcha). I like sailing around SW Florida in shallower waters, and expect a few years before I would want to venture out to the great sea. I don't like "junk" and will be learning maintenance..I am looking in the ? to 40K range. I was in the 200" range but I have dialed down my expectations, knowing I will sell this boat in a few years. Any ideas? Ron

[Mimsy]

I'm not sure I'm reading correctly, you were looking for a 200 foot boat in the $40,000 range but you don't want junk? Not being facetious, really not sure I read you correctly.

[S/V Alchemy]

That reads "200 inches". It's the S/V Lollipop Guild.

[Mimsy]

Well, that would make more sense than 200 feet!

[mohawkmariner]

looking for a used boat in your price range of 30 k to 40k you should be able to find a boat of up to 40 ft or so in livable coastal cruising condition probably already in sw florida or there abouts.i think your biggest problem might be the headroom issue as 6'2 might be a commom limit.all boats are a compromise and your choice should reflect the type of sailing boating you wish to do ie marina livaboard shoal water cruiser,,coastal cruiser, bluewater cruise, world voyager.what you want in a marina livaboard is alot more expensive in a boat capable of world voyaging,although a boat usable but needing a few yrs and 20k in upgrades is doable.the biggest thing in cruising skills is really maintenance and the bigger and more complicated the boat the more time and money it will take to keep things up and running your monthly budget like everywhere is the constaining factor..having a strong but cozy boat with simple systems and a modest lyfestyle is a good starting place.

[Curmudgeon]

Look for a Mark Ellis design like the Niagara 35. They tend to have more headroom since Ellis is 6'4" hinmself.

[Sunyata197]

Thank you all. Of course I meant the 200K range.

[Homespun]

I just read the following article on the best cruising boats (also has racing boats) for under 50k. It is just one person's opinion, but you might find it helpful.

What Is The Best Racing Boat Or Cruising Boat For Under $50,000? | Daily Sailing News from North American Sailor

[SkiprJohn]

Good to have you here and asking questions.
There are a couple links after my signature that might help. The book recommended is good too. A Westsail 32 has more than engough headroom but I don't pay much attention since I'm only 6 foot since I lost a couple inches due to age.
kind regards,