sailing capability/quality Irwin38CC

jsantos · #1 (**permalink**) 07-11-2002

I am looking at an Irwin 38CC would appretiate any info regarding their sailing capabilities and their construction quality,Thanks jim S

wannasail · #2 (**permalink**) 07-15-2002

Jim,
Purchased a 38" Irwin CC in Feb this year.
Put in the water in June.
Have been sailing since on weekends and found that the boat handles great under sail and have had no problems with the construction.
What I am finding is that with age things tend to wear.
Holding tank hoses & connectors.
Main Sheet pullys & sheaves.
Etc.
Would suggest the Irwin web site at sailnet.com
It''s Irwin-list@sailnet.net
If your having a problem getting in try sailnet.com and get them to assist.

Ray
Dream Catcher
Rock hall, MD.

alohakate1 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-18-2002

Dear Jim,

There are far better vessels to think about. Irwin''s do not age well at all. With so many wonderful sailboats in our area, my advice is to go for higher quality. If for Bay sailing, how about a Pearson, a Tartan, a CAL, an Alberg is a really nice strong proven well built sailboat.

All the best

Kate

Kate

SailorMitch · #4 (**permalink**) 07-19-2002

I''ve sailed on an Irwin 42CC before (or about that size anyway -- it''s been a few years), and the owner has lost 2 centerboards -- one off Hatteras and one in Annapolis harbor of all places. He said he wasn''t going to replace it after the second time because of the work that would be needed to beef up the pivot point to keep a third one on. He likes the boat, but in general, Irwin''s are a bit down the food chain in terms of quality and reputation.

I also sat next to a guy on a plane once who owned a 40-ish ft. Irwin that he sailed on the Chesapeake. He told me the only place he knew of that Irwins have a good reputation is in Fla and if he ever planned to sell it, he would take it down there. (Yep, he said that.)

Having said all that, the 38 still could be the boat for you. If it''s the boat of your dreams, go for it. Just get a good survey and if this boat has a centerboard, make sure it''s there in good woking order and not on the bottom somewhere. But have you checked out a Pearson 424 or 422? (Yes, I''m a Pearson man.)