[TrueBlue]

I know from several boat purchases that blind emotions tend to take charge over a prospective boat owner''s rational thought process, but sometimes when the feeling is right, there are no regrets.

We find an "affordable" boat that seems to fulfill our desire for challenging the seas, while also serving as a waterfront retreat from our land-based existence. However, there are issues with the boat, deserving further research and opinions from seasoned sailors who "have been there, done that". . . the reason why you are posting in Sailnet.

This 27'' O''Day may work out for you, certainly the price is right, but are you confident enough in your abilities to do much of the inevitable work yourself and if not, can you afford to hire professionals?

Several years ago, a 27'' O''Day named Friar Tuck, was docked across from our slip. We could not understand how a family of 5 could be so happy in that small boat. I eventually realized that it is not the physical boat that makes people happy, but the state of mind and positive spirit that pervades.

Listen to opinions from other people, hire the best marine surveyor you can afford, but in the end, go with your gut feelings. If you feel good about the boat, go for it. Any negative feelings you may initially have, will most likely stay with you throughout your stewardship.

Steve