Looking for the Right Boat

[Steve Jackson]

My wife and I are new to this site, although we aren't new to boats. My wife was a NOAA Corp Officer, retired, and had command on one of their ships. I have sailed small boats all over the ocean, over 250,000 miles, many of those doing deliver's in the Pacific. I am semi-retired but still work part time as a Ship Master sailing in the Western Pacific.

My wife and I are looking for a comfortable boat, in the 28-35 ft. range for cruising. I like the idea of a trailer-able boat, so we can keep it dry stored when not in use. I do want a boat that is comfortable to sleep on, has a useable head for my wife, and a reasonable galley. We do like the Sundowner 30, although we have heard that the headroom is a challenge for people over 6 ft, as both my wife and I.

One cruise that I have always wanted to make is the Great Loop, as well as doing some more cruising in the Pacific Northwest as far north as Alaska. I know the right boat is out there at the right price. If anyone has a suggestion,, please feel free to PM me, I would like to know your thoughts.

I enjoy reading the new post daily and looking at the classified ad.

 

[dhays]

Welcome.

Here in the PNW I see a lot of Ranger Tugs that might fit what you are looking for. Not inexpensive but the folks that own them seem to love them.

 

[Donna]

Well the "right" boat is the one you fall in love with.

I slept on mine for the first time on New Years eve. Extremely comfortable and spacious. I also cooked breakfast for 6 the next morning.

36' seems to be the magic number for me. I like the space and know I can spend extended time on her.

Get in touch with a yacht broker and look at different types of boats. Write down a list of "must haves".

Welcome and good luck in your search.

 

[Donsan]

Well, if you want to think outside the box a little, here is your boat:

Great Harbour N37 trawler: spacious, stable, unsinkable - Great Harbour Trawlers

 

[CPseudonym]

Sundowners are great boats but 6' headroom is going to be a challenge in any boat 30' or less. Island Gypsy makes a 32 that may have the headroom you desire.

Enjoy your hunt.

 

[Steve Jackson]

My hunt will slow down for the next couple of months as I have to return to work for the next four months, but won't stop ass long as I have a computer to use and internet.

I feel luckier than many people that I have a lot of experience with boating, just never owned a powerboat or trawler. Lot of sailboats in my past, so I have some ideas of what I want. The thing that makes me luckest, is my wife is bugging me to find a boat, so we can start cruising.

Thanks all for the help and encouragement.