We're looking for a quality sailboat and would like recommendations on a good manufacturer. It appears we need something in the 40' range. Is our budget of 80-90K reasonable? If anyone has a broker they recommend, we're interested in that too.
We plan to live aboard for a year and keep to the waters of the Washington coast. We admit we don't know much, but we're willing to learn. Yes, we've heard owning a boat is like throwing money overboard. We may be niave and too optimistic for some people, but we figure you only live once!
2007-08-01 09:03:37 · 5 answers · asked by colorhappy 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Boats & Boating
Almost forgot, we need at least 6'6" headroom!
2007-08-01 10:18:26 · update #1
At this time, about all the 40 footers do have the headroom you request. At the price range you mention you are not looking at a new boat, but that is ok. We bought a '78 to live on and have had no problems. Do have a survey when you find the boat you want. Pacific Seacraft is a good brand made out there, but you wont get that for your price.(Crelock, goes fro at least 200,000 used) Look at Catalina, Juneau, Beneteau are the price range you are looking for, and used. Others include Saber, Hunter, C&C, Tartan, Pearson.
2007-08-01 14:57:07 · answer #1 · answered by science teacher 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow. Good for you.
In 1986 I completed a three year circumnavigation aboard a 40' clipper rigged Bayfield. and I highly recommend the boating lifestyle.
Of course a marriage and subsequent kids changed all that and I am land locked in Oklahoma towing my old Hunter 25 to the lakes instead.
You budget should allow you to get a decent boat in good enough shape so as not to be a big money pit. If you are slipped most of the time and not using your internal water, power and sewage systems you won't require constant repairs on those things.
I am sure you have heard that cruising on a boat is nothing more than working on your boat in exotic locations. Rings true, but as a homeowner, I seem to spend every waking hour doing something around the house.
There area ton of options out there. Keep in mind that a boat purchase in your budget range will be 15-20 years old and it will need some work. If the sails and rigging haven't been replaced since it was new, you're looking at that expense, since the halyards and sheets will be very worn and weary.
The stays and shrouds should be thoroughly (inch by inch) inspected for fraying of the cable and cracks in the riggings.
However, if you have patience, a reasonable income and some skill with your hands, you can take a 40' boat and make it an awesome home.
Every boat has advantages and disadvantages. And every sailor has different priorities. Do you want speed and performance, or a lot of room and amenities.
The Bayfield was sort of a fat cow when it came to sailing to weather, but she was very comfortable below decks and was in her element heeling on a broad reach. She also looked great at anchor and got a lot of attention.
A good compromise boat would be the Beneteau Oceanis 400. She's fast, solid as a rock and pretty damn nice inside.
Hope I helped.
2007-08-01 09:24:08 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
This Site Might Help You.
RE:
What is the best sailboat for two people to live aboard?
We're looking for a quality sailboat and would like recommendations on a good manufacturer. It appears we need something in the 40' range. Is our budget of 80-90K reasonable? If anyone has a broker they recommend, we're interested in that too.
We plan to live aboard for a year and...
2015-08-20 13:25:24 · answer #3 · answered by Joshia 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I cruise the Caribbean for 10 yrs on a Endeavor 40.Since you are in the pacific Try a Pacific sea craft.An offer shore boat equipped for ruff seas & Hight winds. with least a 12' beam.Go to the marines & ask the Old salts about there boats thats the best info around??
2007-08-01 12:20:46 · answer #4 · answered by 45 auto 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I inherented mine so I'm not sure but you can always learn! I am still learning ! Get a boat and it will be the best thing you could ever do for entertainment!
2007-08-01 09:09:45 · answer #5 · answered by Luv2no is in the house 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A catamaran
One hull for you one for the other person. Although you'd still have to agree on where you are going.
2007-08-01 10:10:40 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The USS Minnow?
2007-08-01 12:38:02 · answer #7 · answered by ArticAnt 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a 200 footer with separate everythings...fact.
2014-08-17 10:48:58 · answer #8 · answered by Michael 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋