First .. credentials, we have a family with 2 daughters who have sailed extensively since birth and one has an
Atlantic crossing under her belt. We have had our boat for 25 years with most of those years pre
kids. The kids always love time on the boat and absolutely blossom after a month or two on board.
First .. boats are cheaper in the
USA and generally the cost of cruising fit out is way better.
Second .. boat age means very little... prior to embarking on any major expedition you would be doing a near complete strip down and rebuid on the boat. The only original stuff on our boat is the
mast and
hull... everything else from
rigging,
sails, heads,
engine,
stove, fridges etc etc are renewed.
Third quality of the original
hull is critical and that is where a good
surveyor is your friend. Brand names also build poor quality hulls or inadequate hulls for ocean cruising. Often a lesser known boat can offer outstanding value.
Fourth ... costs seem to go up dramatically after about 40ft and this may impact your cruising budget.
Fifth ... you will
motor much more than you expect and a low hours good condition
engine or better still a new engine is highly desireable.
Finally ... If you want to keep your family happy remember its not camping and it needs to be a comfortable family home with good facilities.
If your willing to learn and are a little bit handy and prepared to do your own
work I expect you will find/
refurb a boat within your budget.
I find much of the opinion on the various boards less helpful and suggest you meet a few experienced locals to bounce ideas off... but expect 180 degree differences in opinions.
Best wishes for your adventure.
Ross
Re: What Sailboat for Atlantic crossing with family?
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