Suggestions For 40 Ft Cruiser With Aft Cabin?

[Harrietcottage1]

Hi Sailors,

Finally decided to join the club since I get such useful info here!

We are a family planning on going cruising (in 7-10 years) with two future kids under 10 and 1 older dog. We are planning to buy our boat in the next few years and live on it for a while to save for the kitty fund.

We would really love a cruiser with an aft cabin, around 40ft. We're looking for a used boat under $50K. Can anyone suggest some good models?

So far we really love the Northstar/Sparkman & Stephens 39ft ketch with center cockpit. Also like the Irwin 37.

I've heard that a ketch is nice for a sailing couple since it allows more options without having to change sails (difficult to do with just 2 crew I would think). Thoughts on this?

Thanks I appreciate it!

[Cheechako]

40 feet is on the small end for center cockpits but there are some good ones. If aethetics is not an issue the Morgan OI 41 comes to mind. The Gulfstar CC boats arent bad for the price either, not sure about 40 feet though. Fuji made one and they are quite stout. will have to let the mind dwell on it at while.... :>)