Searunner 40

[WilliamT]

I joined Cruisers Forum today. Some 28 years after my serious sailing days around the globe. The last time I contacted John Marples was in 1992. We were looking at implications for the SR40 design if it was made from composite material. I no longer have contact with John and so my immediate queries are1) Does anyone know when and where was the last SR40 made? And, who built it? (2) Is there any boat builder still in business that has built a SR40? And, has a blueprint to build another? (3) Has anyone made a SR40 (or SR37) with composite materials? I have sailed a fair few multihulls, but after spending time with a colleague, a one legged Scotsman on Dinks Song (SR40), despite 3 decades passing, the comfort and ease of handling all aspects of cruising, including safety, from the centre cockpit still holds a place of the utmost importance and common sense to me. I am a new member so I hope this is an okay way to start in the 'multihull forum'? WT

[NevilleCat]

https://www.searunner.com/index.php/designs

[Tusitala]

We have a Searunner 34 that was built in Airex/glass. It was built by an employee of Knight and Carver for him and his family. It was the 2nd Searunner he built, the 1st being a 37 in traditional plywood. We were told by John Marples that a few different boats were built in composite, but most were dreadfully overweight. I would think these days it construction knowledge and access to modern glass fabrics it would be easier to build one accurately and light. Still, they're pretty old designs and John has updated ones that might be more suitable.

[longjonsilver]

Originally Posted by WilliamT

(2) Is there any boat builder still in business that has built a SR40? And, has a blueprint to build another?

Doug Jayne has built a CC40, Traveler, designed by John Marples in composite construction. She has now been sold, but Doug might still be in business. Jaynes Marine or Jaynes Maritime in Virginia.

[Boatguy30]

Marples lives in Maine now near the woodenboat school. He and Jim are both still available to consult as are plans for all designs. Last boat I know of was a SR under construction in Brazil. Probably only one in last 15 years.

[longjonsilver]

Originally Posted by Boatguy30

Last boat I know of was a SR under construction in Brazil. Probably only one in last 15 years.

There have been or currently are several CC44z under construction. One in Texas and one in New Hampshire. Check out the Searunner Thread as well as this one:

https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums...wd-208206.html

jon

[Boatguy30]

Yep, some guy in TX about 20 years in. I was referring to play original Searunners. This is info direct from Marples. But if there is one being built, I hope to see it some day! I've owned a 34 and done extensive refits on several.

[longjonsilver]

Originally Posted by Boatguy30

Last boat I know of was a SR under construction in Brazil. Probably only one in last 15 years.

You mean this one?

ind

[WilliamT]

It has been 5 days since my first post, and thanks to NevilleCat, Tusitala, Longjonsilver and Boatguy30 for the leads and information. I have much reading and follow up to keep me busy. If I want to see the Great Barrier Reef in my own SR40 (maybe 37?), in comfort and style then it looks like I am going to have to build one. Building in NZ or Australia is preferred to sailing one across the Pacific, although I have already done that twice, partly in a monohull and part in a 46' Cat, when I was 30 years younger! The link to Marples/Brown has given me a huge boost to see those guys are still supporting and standing by their designs - thanks NevilleCat. Marples puts up a strong case for wood 40 years ago, and still stands by that. Once again I thank you all, and in due course will be talking things over with the team at Marples/Brown in Maine USA.

[NevilleCat]

This one's an extended 34, been for sale in NZ a while...
https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/boa...32b4493e31-002

[longjonsilver]

Raven has a nice dodger, nice interior, best motor you can buy, decent list of equipment.
$37k Canadian
tempting
jon