Thank you all for the great comments, lots of valuable information here. To clarify my situation: I’ve been sailing for the last 30+ years, mostly racing with occasional cruising. Over the decades, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for being on the water. However, as I get older, I find myself less inclined to endure an open cockpit in cold rain and strong winds.
We sail year-round here in Vancouver, where winter sailing is often very damp or chilly, with moderate winds. In terms of cruising, our routine includes an annual 3–4 week trip to Desolation Sound, as well as shorter weekend cruises. In reality, much of our inshore cruising is done under power, which is another reason I’m considering a trawler. However, the primary reasons for the switch are comfort and protection from the elements.
When reading through the comments, a common trend emerges that most trawlers are comfortable in winds up to around 15 kts with 5' waves. However, no matter how carefully you plan a trip, the weather can change unexpectedly. A forecasted 15 kts wind can quickly turn into 30+ , especially in coastal areas where local effects can amplify conditions.
This leads me to several important questions:
Which models are known to be safer in rough conditions, and which ones should be avoided?
Should a full-displacement hull be a must?
Some models have already been mentioned - Cape Horn, Nordhavn, and the DeFever 44. The last one is a bit too big; I’m looking for something in the 35–40 ft range.
At this stage, my goal is to find a vessel that allows for more comfortable cruising without sacrificing too much in terms of safety. While I’m willing to adapt my cruising habits and be more cautious about weather windows, I also want to be confident that my boat can handle more than just ideal conditions should the need arise.