RE: Willard 30 Nomad: On My Shortlist
Marin,
While I normally like what you write,* I'm not sure that after hearing you say you would not want to live aboard a boat of any length,** How can you objectively speak on this subject?
Remember,* everyone has his or her own wants from a live-aboard,*
With increased size of boat come increased issues.
Finding and paying for slip or anchorage would come to mind.*
Costs of fuel and annual maintenance go up several times over.
Big boats are harder to handle.* I have seen many couples struggle with a boat that is clearly outside their expertise.
Many owners go this route:
1.* Get boating fever.
2.* Like boating and get 2 foot disease.
3.* Regret getting that boat that was just a little too big,* and downsize.
Sort of like all the folks these days who build a McMansion while the kids are in high school,** only to find that once the kids move out,* they are now living in an air palace,* with too many rooms to heat and clean.** Look around,* they are everywhere.
Granted,* the Willard 30 is a bit small for a live-aboard,* as I am soon to find out.* But,* it is far bigger in living space than most 35 or 40 foot sail boats many have lived on successfully.**
I sure would like to have a 36 but I would rather go and have my fun,* and be able to do it longer,** than shorten my time afloat due to financing.
Rant over,
Eric,** give me a call sometime.
Dan Pease
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