Which one Alberg 30 or Hunter 25.5

KPMarshall · #1 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

This is my first post, but it looks like if there is anywhere to get good advice, this is it. I am in the process of purchasing my first sailboat and have been a member of a local timeshare for a number of years. My question is a common one, but with the wealth of knowledge here I'll get some good advice. I am down to two boats that are available and would like input. It’s probably worth mentioning that I sail on inland waterways (river)… not near an open ocean.

Option one is an 1967 Alberg 30. She's been on the hard for about 4 years, needs bottom paint and work on the wood on her lazzaretts and hatch. The deck seems to be in good shape and the mast has already had the recommended reinforcement. She will need bottom paint, and pending an inspection the engine is a question, although the current owner says it was recently overhauled. The sails are in good shape, but all of the running rigging will need to be replaced. From what I’ve research the Albergs seem to be a very sturdy boat – but this one will need some elbow grease.

Option two is a 1985 Hunter 25.5. She has new bottom paint. The current owner has effected some repairs on the deck and it looks like he has done a very good job. It has depth/wind/knot electronics, an outboard. The bottom paint is new. The interior appears to be in good shape as well as the sails. It short it’s newer and won’t need as much work.

My quandary is that the Alberg is a classic boat that I am sure would be a pleasure to sail but her age tells me I should prepare for a constant stream of maintenance. The Hunter, while not as classic is ready to go in the spring. Of course the Alberg is less expensive that the Hunter.

Which direction would you go?

scottyt · #2 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

what is your budget over all ( that means after purchase repairs too )? i dont see how an 85 hunter 25.5 could be more expensive than an alberg. there are early eighties hunter 27 for sale in great shape from 5 to 10 grand, so i could not see a 85 25.5 would be more than 6 or 7 grand.

edit, btw being on a river you really dont want an outboard, as the current might get you. if the current and the wind are going opposite it can get rough ad the out board can get lifted out of the water.

KPMarshall · #3 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

Good points - especially regarding inboard vs. outboard, the wind current dynamic has happened to me before. Overall budget is $10K - and both are in the range. I too would expect the Alberg to be more expensive as well. My sense is that unless there is something unforeseen (thus the inspection) I could get the Alberg into good shape and within buget... famous last words. I guess I'm trying to get a sense of value.

mitiempo · #4 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

You are looking at two quite different boats.

I agree the inboard is a better choice as well. I would think the Alberg could be a bit of a project. The hunter less so but I'm guessing it could have issues of some kind as well.
Find a good surveyor - he should find any problems that are not obvious.

KPMarshall · #5 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

Getting the inspection is key. I' ve been waiting for 2 months for the inspection on the Alberg. The cold weather has slowed that process...got to keep patient!

scottyt · #6 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

where do you live? maybe others here know about boats that might be cheaper, and or in better shape.

I do know of a hunter 27 83 IIRC that is only 5500 ( i think ), and it looks like its in real good if not great shape.

Faster · #7 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

As has been already mentioned... these are two VERY different boats in terms of design and vintage and indicates to me that you're not really sure of what kind of boat you want beyond fitting the budget.

If you're on a narrow waterway where beating is going to be a regular occurrence you may prefer a boat that is more close winded and higher performance so that you'll be able to make good progress to weather when you need to. On paper the Hunter may suit better in that regard. It also probably has as much living space (at least) as the A 30. And it's nearly 20 years younger, as you point out.

The Alberg sounds like a bit of a project so the other question is 'how soon do you want to be sailing'.

One other thought is that you need to look around some more. Presumably you're in the $10K bracket or thereabouts... Lots and lots of boats around in the 27-30 foot range in that bracket. Don't limit yourself to these two without having a good look around at some other ideas first.

omaho5 · #8 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

I sail an Algerg design Cape Dory 22. The design is beautiful and gets Attaboyzz.
The Hunter could be more practical on a small body of water.
Draft s important ...
How much do you want to work ?

KPMarshall · #9 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

Lots of great input as I would have expected. I'll admit I'm attracted to the design of the Alberg and don't mind work...that's part of owning a boat isn't It? I definatly want to start sailing in the spring. From what I've heard here, the Hunter might be overpriced.

I live in Louisville Ky...so if any one has any leads, I'm all ears.

KPMarshall · #10 (**permalink**) 01-02-2011

Lots of great input as I would have expected. I'll admit I'm attracted to the design of the Alberg and don't mind work...that's part of owning a boat isn't It? I definatly want to start sailing in the spring. From what I've heard here, the Hunter might be overpriced.

I live in Louisville Ky...so if any one has any leads, I'm all ears.