[Jeff_H]

To follow up on the questions:

I have a couple issues with the Beneteau number series. First of all if you crawl around to where you can see how the two series are constructed, it appears that the First series are a little better built. For example the tabbing on the First series looks wider (or exists as compared to the new number series in which the bulkheads are simply glued in albeit with high grade adhesives). Also most of the number series boats that show up for sale on the Chesapeake come in with very shoal wing keels and with in mast furling. That combination pretty much ruins the performance of these boats. I also like the better hull forms, deck hardware and more workable deck layouts on the First series. The other thing is that most of the more recent first series boats have fractional rigs which I consider to be a more versitile rig than a masthead, especially on the Bay.

There was a question about Jeaneaus. I have never been much of a fan of Jeaneau. They have always struck me as being one step down from Beneteau in build and design quality. Still and all the 40 (which was also built by Oday) is a popular boat on the Bay and is not the worst choice.

Lastly someone emailed me about Dehlers. I really like these boats. I think they are well built and nicely thought out. The only problem with Dehlers when I was looking was that I could not find one in my price range. You might find one of an acceptable size in yours. One word of caution on Dehler, Dehler built a near legendary line of race boats DB-1 through DB-4 I believe. Neat race boats but useless as cruisers. There were some DB-2s and DB-3''s around quite cheaply but I doubt they will suit your bill.

Regards
Jeff