Florida and the Bahamas

[sailhog]

I'm looking forward to dragging my beautiful wife and two girls down to Florida and the Bahamas in the next 2-3 years on a 36' - 40' sailing vessel. My daughters will be 8 and 10 years old then, and I'm looking to live aboard for 4-6 months. The question I would like to put to the learned panel is this: What are some boats that are capable of handling all of us for that period of time? Being a poor bastard with a mild drinking problem, I'll only have $70,000 - $90,000 to pony up for the ship. I'm looking to sink adequate money into proper ground tackle. Just looking for good tips...
Sailhog

[PBzeer]

Shoal draft, good pointing ability, 2 heads (with 3 women, that will barely be enough), good ventilation and good alternative energy sources. A good dink would also be a plus. That would be my recommendations after my time here.

Currently at 25 46 43 N 80 11 08 W

[Cruisingdad]

You want to place a guess on how I would vote (smile)?

Production vessel, preferably any Catalina (though the older ones at 1-2 years are better than the new ones IMO), older Beneteau/Jeanneau or brand new Hunter. Since money will be the issue, probably a bene/Jen/Catalina.

No a/c, get a Catalina 36 mKii. Yes A/C, a 380. I have no cruising experience on the Ben/Jen so will let others respond.

- CD

[stoutwench]

You might want to consider an older center cockpit. This will allow you and your wife to have your own cabin away from the kids. You will be spending the majority of you time topside, so buy something with a roomy cockpit. 90% of your time will be at anchor, so don't get too caught-up is sailing performance. Get something beamy (won't point well) with lots of room. This will be your home, so you will need room to be comfortable.

Roger

[PBzeer]

I bring up pointing ability, solely due to the fact that everywhere I've tried to go, the wind has been on my nose.

Currently at 25 46 43 N 80 11 08 W

[ebs001]

Remember this;when you are in the Bahamas no matter how small the boat the swimming pool is huge.

[camaraderie]

O'Day 37 CC or Irwin 38CC would be good older boat choices that will give good value and space and privacy.
Forget pointing ability for this trip...what you want is a cruising platform that will get you into the pool!!