[RobGallagher]

I have been shopping for a 30 ft sailboat for the last couple of months. It doesn''t appear to me that prices are dropping more than usual for this time of year (new england sailing season is almost over).

For me, since most of my sailboat budget is in securities, I don''t have as much to spend today as I did 3 weeks ago. I am now inclined to look at a 28 footer.

So far, I have looked at many sailboats and pricing is rarely "on an even keel". It depends on how much the current owner needs to sell the boat. For the most part, sail boats are a luxury. If you can afford one to begin with, then you are probably not in a hurry to part with the boat for less than you think it''s worth.

It can be very frustrating. I have driven an hour to look at a boat that is supposed to be in great condition. Only to get there and find it in less than "bristol" shape. Then have the owner try and talk me out of having it surveyed!!

I think the road to sailboat ownership will be a long one.