Hello from Wilmington , NC

[Hille]

My husband and I are considering the purchase of a family friendly sailboat. I am originally from Germany and spent my childhood sailing the north sea with my parents and siblings on a 40' konsul.
now we are just trying to find tips and good information on what to purchase. I have been eying catalina 28, or something of that format.
we have three little girls, so i don't think anything smaller would be an option. i am just not sure that a catalina is something i would want to take out into open waters ...

[James S]

Welcome to the forum Hille.
Sorry I cant help with the Catalina question.

Am I right in assuming that the boat would be for day and weekend type sails i.e. not full time cruising/live aboard?

[Unicorn Dreams]

Welcome Aboard CF

[vintageray]

I'm right down the road from you about 30 miles refitting my Mariner 40 at Holden Beach. I'll keep my eyes open and if I hear about a boat, I'll drop you a line.

[Hille]

i would like a boat that is blue water capable. not that we will attempt that any time soon, but you never know. my parents' boat at home is kind of like my big sister, she has always been part of our family and ones i buy a boat, i don't think i could resell and upgrade after i put my heart and sole in it.
a circumnavigation has been my dream since i was a little girl and my husband could be easily convinced. but that is years away ... ironically, i am the only one in the family that fights sea sickness ... but i will deal with that one way or the other.
i saw some tartans further north that i like also ...

[skipmac]

I know it is difficult to sell something that becomes part of your life, but in your situation that might be the best option.

First, Catalinas are generally good boats and I would not hesitate to take one out in the ocean. I would be careful to pick relatively moderate weather, especially with the smaller Catalina.

The other thought, a 28' boat is a bit small for 5 people. Of course that is very much a matter of personal preference and your ability to adapt to a small space. I met 2 couples from Germany that were very happy all cruising the Caribbean on a 27' boat and I have met a single couple that thought 40' was too small.

If you do get around to circumnavigating with the whole family 28' could get small for pretty much anyone. You might consider starting out small, learning what you want and need on a boat and later upgrade to a larger boat when you get ready for more serious cruising.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha and welcome aboard!
It's good to have you here.
kind regards,