Boat Buying??

ricccccc · #1 (**permalink**) 11-30-2005

Live in Erie,Pa...looking on spending about $30,000...was looking at a 34'' Hunter because of the aft stateroom...Just looking for a good solid boat...Any ideas??

Irwin32 · #2 (**permalink**) 11-30-2005

Tough to know what is best for you as the purchase of the right boat involves so many variables. Are you looking for coastal or offshore? Is dockside comfort more important than at sea comfort? How important is the boat''s performance under sail? How much motoring do you expect to do?

No easy answer here.

ricccccc · #3 (**permalink**) 12-01-2005

Plan on sailing the great lakes...iam still working but would like to spend the entire summer aboard...something roomy, thats why i was looking for aft stateroom...looking for the best boat i can buy for the money...

Irwin32 · #4 (**permalink**) 12-03-2005

On the Great Lakes, a hunter 34, a coastal cruiser would certainly do the job. I do not know the Hunter 34 well. My own personal opinion is, on a smaller yacht, like under 40, the aft "stateroom" is not all tht useful. Looking at these designs the aft cabin seems cramped and often lacks good ventilation. Great Lakes summers are hot and ventilation is important. I have found that the roominess of the main cabin suffers as a result of the aft cabin. I prefer the more traditional interior - a quarter berth and a long berths on each side of the main cabin. to live aboard for the summer, you do not need to have a seperate "bedroom". I say look for living space - not sleeping space. Just my opinion and I am sure many will disagree. I, too, sail the great Lakes and spend about half of each summer aboard.

sailortonyb1 · #5 (**permalink**) 12-11-2005

I''m a Catalina kinda guy, its a chevy/ford kinda thing, but anyway, i think you are in the right direction. A budget of 30K should get you a very nice 20 year old Hunter 34 or a Catalina 30 to 34. I think the Cat is a better boat but im sure Hunter owners will argue that point. Either case, $30K is in the right range for a good boat. Have you looked at yachtworld.com ? The prices there will confirm this. Also glad you are not looking for a ''bargain '' boat that will consume all your time and money, and they are rarely a ''good buy''.
Have fun ang good luck.