Lightwave

[Johnathon123]

ASSUMING I was considering a cat

Coastal and the odd longer trip

Does anyone have an opinion on the lightwave 38.

What would be comparable?

Thanks

[Dragon Lady]

I think they are well built and the design is good if you are athletic and or tall and don't want many berths which is the same for most Aussie cats.
My wife had her heart set on a Lightwave 38 but was shocked to find that the cockpit had quite large steps up to the top of the pods and the beds were very high up, I was surprised that one of the Lightwave guys at the boat show claimed that the boat was superior to the French boats because it was hand laid up. When I questioned how it could be better than the vacuum lay up on the French boats, he was adamant that the hand layup was superior.
We shrugged and walked away then bought a French boat because we preferred the layout and ease of moving around it.
Other boats you may want to consider are :- Seawind 1150, Laggon 380, Leopard 38, Athena 38 and a lot more.

[ausaviator]

I spoke to a middle-aged couple at the Melb Docklands boat show. They had just been to the factory and were very close to putting in an order on a Lightwave. They were raving about it after sailing on it and were comparing to the Lagoon 40, but probably as the cost is similar of the two of them.

Certainly worth the trip to the factory for a closer look if thinking about a new one like they did.

[Dragon Lady]

Sanctuary Cove boat show now on, got to be the best place to look at cats in Australia!

[downunder]

If you like the layout of a Lightwave and they suit you go for it.

Quality wise I suspect they are above the french cats in most respects but then again perhaps i am a biased aussie.

[Factor]

Good boats - well built, sail well and nice people to boot. Roger - the owner is an excellent multi sailor and has won more than a few races in his lightwave Raider sports cat. I took one (a 45) to Sydney from Southport a few years ago and was very happy with it, of course I also think our Seawind 1160 is worth a look!!

[GordMay]

See also ➥ http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...8-a-12927.html

[Southern Star]

It would seem to have pretty good bridgedeck clearance, which in part explains the elevated berths. Personally, I like a galley down that is open to the main saloon - it provides more counter/storage space and better bracing than a galley up, while still allowing the cook to socialize. My one knock would be the seemingly extensive use of vinyl headliners - eventually, the glue will deteriorate and they will sag (and stain with any water intrusion).

Brad

[Johnathon123]

Thanks, I think SC sounds like a good plan indeed!

[Dragon Lady]

Allow plenty of time there's a lot to look at. Happy shopping