Great Lakes Trawler

[Jeff71]

Hello from Toronto Canada. I've joined to learn more about selecting the right trawler for longer passages around the Great Lakes and eventually into the Caribbean.

I currently own a one of a kind 26ft steel trawler from the 1960s. The motor froze and cracked so I'm considering changing it to electric- no experience with this yet.

I'm almost 50 and am currently working my butt trying to make a go of my design/ build remodelling con structure company. However I'm reaching the end of my rope and dream daily of selling my real estate and company and buying a Ranger Tug or similar to cruise and explore for a couple yrs.

I have little interest in extended trips into the deep blue seas, but prefer the concept of day tripping/ island hopping in the carribean or similar.

I've mated on fishing and diving boats in the Caribbean and Lake Ontario. I've worked as a PADI scuba instructor in 3 countries, visited 45 countries. I speak Spanish and French. I love using the above when travelling..

Looking forward to sharing knowledge adn learning from everyone else's wisdom.
thx so much in advance!
Jeff

[Nicholson58]

You will need larger than 26 for the Caribbean. Most of our stink-boat friends are driving >40 feet. Some have passive stabilizers, one had gyros. Our friends currently in St Lucia will be selling. I think Hatteras 52 or 54. Very nice boat. They will be moving it to Antigua soon

[Jeff71]

Thx Nicholson58. I'm considering approx 30ft Ranger Tug while in fresh water for next 5 yrs or so until I can retire. Qualities I like are fuel economy, seaworthiness and functional, attractive interior. I have never owned a newer live aboard and really look forward to instruments that work and modern navigation technology.
In the short term my tripos will be 2-8 nights doing portions of the Great Loop, Trent Severn Waterway and other inland passages

[Spot]

Ahoy and welcome to CF Jeff.

-Do you have any pictures of the trawler to share?
-What motor are you needing to replace?

I am not (!) a subject matter expert but have a fondness for Great Lakes fish tugs and old stuff in general.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Jeff.