Updated Offshore Cruising Boat List - January 2008

[indecentwarrior]

well i was searching for the same information in this thread, thanks for sharing.

[northbay]

I' curious, why no mention of Gulfstar... even by John Neal?
I realize that other boats might be better but not to even
get a by-your-leave... please.

Bob s/v Journey

[camaraderie]

Northbay...I would agree that the G50 is a bluewater boat as we have friends who have made a number of bluewater passages in one. I think they are pretty well built in terms of robustness but have had problems with leaks, deck core and tanks so that is probaly why Neal left them off the list. Nevertheless..if those things have been taken care of I would not hesitate to voyage in one and the SPACE is terriffic for living aboard. I would not say the same of several smaller Gstars I've been on.

[Newport41]

I noticed the Morgan 382/383 made the list. I've also seen lots of them out and about around the world so I guess they deserve the designation as a bluewater boat. Are they not bonded at the hull/deck joint? As I remember that's why i stayed away from them, that and I'm a speed freak (not the drug addict kind)

[camaraderie]

Newport...I don't think that is right though it is a cored hull and had some internal bulkhead and chainplate tabbing issues. Generally considered a good strong boat if kept well.

[emagin]

Rafiki 37 has a pretty good reputation for being solidly built
Has some iron tank issues and the usual teak deck stuff but good overall.
Was mentioned in this Through the Cracks article 2004
/forums/buying-boat-articles/19539-through-cracks.html

[camaraderie]

emagnin...thanks for the link. I think it was probably left off due to the mentioned issues with decks an black iron tanks but assuming those have been dealt with, the boat deserves to be on the list if Kretchmer likes her! Adding to my post #6 secondry list!

[emagin]

The decks seems like a medium sized issue - common problem in 70s boats so not sure it's a deal killer.

The iron fuel tanks is different - getting the iron tanks out of a Rafiki is almost impossible, they have to be cut up and things taken out to make room to get to them. So they are a major issue IF they go bad and rust on you. Depends on the grade of material, but it is a known issue that has to be addressed by some owners.

Still a great boat!

[nonam]

Wow!Is the entire C & C range unsuitable?And he put Saga on the list?I have personaly worked on a Saga 43 and I think it is a mistake to go to sea in one of those.They are made for light winds and sheltered waters.

[tjvanginkel]

I too am wondering why C&C's don't make the list? I know of two that have done the vic maui race, an older 34 and a 37. I also have met a couple that cruised their C&C from the Pacific Northwest to New Zealand and back.
Anyone?