Input on Irwin 39 Citation?

[jpasha]

Hello everyone,

I am thinking fairly seriously about buying an 1979 Irwin 39 Citation. I have been reading up on the little info I can find on these, but could benefit from some other input.

My two main concerns are:
1. How does the keel/centerboard design sail? Will she be fairly fast, like a fin keel boat? Is that a good design? (I did read the posts on the keel design - thanks).
2. Are these boats seaworthy? We are looking mainly to live aboard and sail coastal cruising. I do like to sail fast and well, and like to feel like the boat is strong under me. The deck stepped mast concerned me on such a big boat, but the posts on that enlightened me too - thanks again.

basically I am looking for some words of wisdom from some of those owners or those who have sailed this boat before.

Thanks for any info.

Happy sailing,

Joshua