Hi!

Hello, everyone.

New "trawler" owner and not the main navigator. But I'm the one in our partnership with the most questions. The Captain is well-versed with sailboats, but this will be a totally new boat to him/us.

We bought a Nautique that needs some work. We are currently living on our 37' Jeanneau sailboat in New Bern, NC. The Nautique is in Annapolis. Had a boat survey and separate engine survey. Lowered our original offer based on the survey and that was eventually agreed upon. I think we got a good deal.

The must-do's according to the survey (and the captain agrees) is checking out or replacing the shafts (DONE - are getting new ones machined), replace all through-hulls (almost done), new electronics (done, but that was a given), engine coolant systems overhauls (being done). Lots of smaller issues, but we'll get those done as time and money permits.

I love the fact that we'll have a smaller draft (3' 6" vs 5' 1") and we'll be able to go much faster if we need to.

I worry about the overall stability of the boat. Can we cross the gulf? I'm sure, IF we watch weather windows. No different than sailing. Still worried.

Have been on watching this forum for a while now and hope to learn more.

CaptsWife said:

I worry about the overall stability of the boat. Can we cross the gulf? I'm sure, IF we watch weather windows. No different than sailing. Still worried.

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Welcome. Lots of former sailors here. I’ve had a power boat now for 2 1/2 years. Yes you can can cross the Gulf. Plenty of folks here who can give you local knowledge. Yes it depends on weather windows. However, it is very different than sailing. I’ve never been in a stabilized powerboat, but there is nothing like a sailboat for providing stability in weather. However, different isn’t bad, it is just different.

Welcome aboard. Yes you can cross the gulf. As said above is is just different.

Greetings,
Welcome aboard. Which gulf? Gulf of Mexico or Gulf stream? Gulf stream for sure. G of M? No idea. Indeed, IF you watch the weather, you can probably go most anywhere. As to your worries...The next time you're cruising along in your carpet slippers with a nice mug of tea, seated in a warm snug cabin, take a good look at that sailboat you pass on that cold, clammy, rainy dreary day. Oh look! They've got matching foulies...

Welcome to the light! You’ll love it after spending all those years in the dark ages.

Just one thing, your anchor is too small, it’s the wrong kind and you don’t have enough chain. Don’t worry, it’s not your fault. If you read this forum enough you’ll find nobody’s anchor is big enough.

Will someone please explain to her about her gun being too small, the wrong kind and the pitiful lack of ammunition?

I’m guessing it’s a Nautique 42 with the twin 320’s. Nice boat with rich interior, great live-aboard layout. She’ll surely take you across the Gulf Stream just fine, albeit at a bit more fuel cost than your Jeanneau, I’m sure. Welcome to comfort and keep us informed on your progress!

Guns? We have a flare gun. And how did you know the anchor IS too small! Definitely getting a bigger, better anchor.

Yes, 42' Nautique with twin diesels. The interior is pristine and we love the aft cockpit.

Thanks for the warm welcome, everyone.

Use the Search feature for "anchor" or "chain". There are many threads available with many and varied opinions on these questions.
It is sort of a joke here that ghe anchors which are used on "other peoples" boats are too small.
There is some basis to that, as many here anchor out more often, and for longer periods than do most boaters, therefore needing anchors closer to the "storm" size for the boat, rather than the lunch hook which many boats come with.
Welcome to the party, enjoy.
JohnS