This is an update from a previous quary for opinions on Tartens, vs. Catalinas, vs. D32.
I've concluded that since most of my sailing in the near future would be in some sort of triangle between Alaska, Hawai'i and Washington, I should exclude beefed up coastal cruisers. I've therefore started focusing on these 3 deep water cruisers: Dreadnought, Westsail or O'Day. Any opinions on these boats would be gratefully accepted. Any knowledge of pros or cons would be great.
Many of the boats I've been looking into seem to be on the east coast. This puts added cost into getting them to WA, so therefore less desirable. Does anyone have a realistic projection of cost in bringing a boat through the canal, etc? I'll have to factor all of this into purchase price.
1) The Dreadnought has only one size availability. They seem to be extremely hardy and roomy. There are 2 available for nearly the same price here in Washington and a few more scattered down the west coast. How much more satisfaction is acquired with size? I'm sticking below 40' for now as the price seems to go up exponentially, especially after 40. Does the comfort level go up exponentially after 30'? I should add that I would be sharing with my partner and a couple cats.
2) I've recently had someone mention O'Day as very comfortable and well laid out as far as cabin is concerned. How's maintenance? Is the engine reliable? How does she fair in tough weather?
3) I've had staunch support for Westsail. Availability is thin here in Washington except for when I broaden as far down as Mex. Pac. coast and include a range from 30' to 40'. I heard from someone else that a Westsail was one of the only boats to survive the "Perfect Storm". How is the layout? Again about maintenance and engine reliability?
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Get busy living, or get busy dying!
-Shawshank Redemption
Current Fleet:
'90 Klepper Aerius I
'65 Klepper Aerius II
-Dreaming of (much) larger boats!
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