Hello

[kimtrang]

I'm an old guy in Australia. I bought a 55 year 33' fibreglass boat late last year that I've been working on since then. I've stripped the bottom and the topsides for antifouling and painting and will hopefully be in the water by June.

It's hard work and I've really taken on more than I should have. I'm not much of a sailor and to be honest the sea frightens the crap out me, so I'm unlikely to venture more than a few miles offshore, as I invariably sail alone. I'm not all that crazy about running aground either. I had a 25' previously which was dead simple compared to this. After I sold that boat, I said to myself never again, but ended up buying this boat so I'd have somewhere to live in Sydney as rents are a killer here.

I'm looking forward to tapping the collective expertise on this forum.

[skipmac]

Hi kimtrang and welcome to the forum.

Don't worry, before you know it 33' will be the new normal. I learned on a 36' boat and managed not to kill myself or too many bystanders in the process.

[sailrj]

Welcome Kimtrang. You've to the best of the best for sailing and cruising info. Good luck and fair winds.

[Diesel Bill]

Hi Kimtrang, Welcome to the forum, Sounds like the worst is over. Almost time for the christening. You'll get over your fears and feel a huge sense of pride and accomplishment
when your out on the briny choosing your own course. Even only if using for a place to live in a marina.

[Jim Cate]

G'Day Kimtrang, and welcome to CF. As another old guy currently sailing mostly in Oz, I understand about boats being physically overwhelming. However, if you have gotten through the evils of bottom prep and paint, the sailing will be a big relief, and the extra stability of the much larger boat will be a comfort. Start out with conservative sail plans and avoid excursions on the Harbour on big race days if you can. Racers often do not care that others may not be as accomplished sailors as they are, and can be a bit aggressive. Who needs that?

Enjoy your new boat!

Jim

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, kimtrang.

[tronic72]

Originally Posted by kimtrang

I'm an old guy in Australia. I bought a 55 year 33' fibreglass boat late last year that I've been working on since then. I've stripped the bottom and the topsides for antifouling and painting and will hopefully be in the water by June.



It's hard work and I've really taken on more than I should have. I'm not much of a sailor and to be honest the sea frightens the crap out me, so I'm unlikely to venture more than a few miles offshore, as I invariably sail alone. I'm not all that crazy about running aground either. I had a 25' previously which was dead simple compared to this. After I sold that boat, I said to myself never again, but ended up buying this boat so I'd have somewhere to live in Sydney as rents are a killer here.



I'm looking forward to tapping the collective expertise on this forum.

Hi "Old Guy",

Welcome to the forum. I'm here in Melbourne and the boat is located in Hastings. Currently refitting a cabin cruiser. Step leaning curve but a lot of fun.

[Joel E Felt]

Kinda old guy, but welcome to CF. If you seek any kind of nautical knowledge just ask, for sure there will be someone that can help. Good luck and welcome again.
joel