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Outside the major passages (Pacific & Atlantic) I don't see an issue that we couldn't handle regarding a mismatch with a "unique" soul for a week or so. We are very social and enjoy most others company. That being said, short cruises or spending some time with the prospective person or couple is the only way to test the waters. Telephone conversations and e-mail will give us a good start.
You are correct V. I am no stranger to the latest and greatest. I am a pilot and had my own late model Mooney and handling the Chart Plotter, Autopilot, GPS and all electronics will be a quick learn. We'll have at least 3 GPS back up systems incase all the electrical fails. We \were on the Chesapeake with some friends for a week last month and it was my first time using the Raymarine series chart plotter & autopilot and I had most figured out and was plotting courses and waypoints etc. in a couple hours.
Regarding the 615. Yes. Hull # 2. The Passport Vista series is a proven design and when Bill Dixon took the job to engineer and design the new 615, I was pleased. It's a risk with a new model but one I feel is very, very low. He has a stellar reputation for larger ocean cruising yachts.
The boat will be in-mast. I was leaning toward the Leisure Furl in-boom but had extensive conversation with other Passport owners with Selden in-mast and Bill Dixon. I feel very comfortable with it operating properly on the high seas. Of course I am concerned with it jamming in a gale but feel the benefits outweigh the possible issues. I have spoken with several Passport owners, many that have crossed the Atlantic and Pacific in their 470's and 515's with no issues whatsoever. I will be prepared in case as anyone would. “reef early and often”
Everything about the boat is being engineered to be handled by a couple with very oversized winches etc. in case hydraulics and electrical failure. I won't go out until we both prove to ourselves that we can furl all sails and handle the boat without power. The wife will not be on board for the crossing to FP or from Europe to US. I'm 6'4", 210 and in excellent health with former athletic experience. Wife is 5"6" in great shape and X-marathon runner.
We’re doing all we can to prepare. We had this plan in place before we ever read the Bumfuzzle experience. I have to say they seemed to lack the respect for the sea that we have but they did get it done. I respect certain things about their experience and can’t believe others. We could have bought a smaller boat and worked our way up coastal cruising but decided we could afford to have our 615 crewed the entire time if we wish and that would be the last choice once we get some miles under our belt but would to preserve the trip. I’m sure these Captains and crew would love the full time job but EVERY one is telling us we should be ready in 3 to 6 month sailing full time. I know everyone does not have this kind of choice and we feel very lucky for it. We did work hard and still are.
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