Gordon J
Guru
- Joined
- Jul 23, 2015
- Messages
- 1,081
- Location
- USA
- Vessel Name
- Didi Mau
- Vessel Make
- Currently looking for next boat
Flopper stoppers and hydraulic stabilizers
My 2003 Ocean Alexander 456 came with both hydraulic stabilizers and rocker stoppers, for use while on anchor. I can't imagine that paravanes are very easy to deploy and the computer operated stabilizers really make a difference. I know fuel consumption suffers, but with two Cummins 330s pushing her, I doubt it makes much difference.
I love my boat and configuration, but it is not on your list. Of the three on your list, I have crewed on a KK 48 from Norfolk, VA to Stuart FL. I have been aboard, for a short trip, my friends un-stabilized Defever 49. I love the defever's stand up engine room and the KK's pilot house. However, in my own boat, with a flybridge hardtop, enclosure, and twin ACs, coupled with the stabilizers, I can't see a need to ever drive the boat from down below and think the fly bridge is superior to the pilot house.
In the end, of all the features on my boat, the hydraulic stabilizers are the most valuable, IMHO. 2nd place would be water maker and back-up generator and electronic throttles.
I do think the high hulls of the KKs might be a bit more seaworthy, but, given your cruising plans thank any of them would do - but with stabilizers.
I have cruised every place you mentioned - but with my sailboat - and would not attempt without some sort of stabilization.
my $.02
Gordon
He may not be, but if he found the perfect boat for a decent amount under $250k, just want him aware. And, if he finds one with stabilizers already then accept that vs. his requirement stated of paravanes.
My 2003 Ocean Alexander 456 came with both hydraulic stabilizers and rocker stoppers, for use while on anchor. I can't imagine that paravanes are very easy to deploy and the computer operated stabilizers really make a difference. I know fuel consumption suffers, but with two Cummins 330s pushing her, I doubt it makes much difference.
I love my boat and configuration, but it is not on your list. Of the three on your list, I have crewed on a KK 48 from Norfolk, VA to Stuart FL. I have been aboard, for a short trip, my friends un-stabilized Defever 49. I love the defever's stand up engine room and the KK's pilot house. However, in my own boat, with a flybridge hardtop, enclosure, and twin ACs, coupled with the stabilizers, I can't see a need to ever drive the boat from down below and think the fly bridge is superior to the pilot house.
In the end, of all the features on my boat, the hydraulic stabilizers are the most valuable, IMHO. 2nd place would be water maker and back-up generator and electronic throttles.
I do think the high hulls of the KKs might be a bit more seaworthy, but, given your cruising plans thank any of them would do - but with stabilizers.
I have cruised every place you mentioned - but with my sailboat - and would not attempt without some sort of stabilization.
my $.02
Gordon