[snider]

I followed a 36 foot Topper Hermanson named Golden Echo for a few months, hoping it would be around when I could buy it. It sold before I had the down payment saved. The research I did on the boats at the time lead me to believe they were well built. I've only owned frp boats, but have always wanted a good steel sailboat. There are being some great breakthroughs with coating systems. You have to also be careful of electrolysis. In my opinion a well cared for steel boat will outlast any frp boat. Not to mention the strength advantage. If you don't buy this boat I would be interested. I've seen it before but I believe it was sold when I inquired about it.