How do you know???

NewCruiser · #1 (**permalink**) 02-09-2010

There are so many things to consider when evaluating the plethora of boats on the market, and my question is - how do you know which boats are more "sea worthy" than others? Are their certain characterists I should be looking for?
Is it possible to buy a boat that could cross an ocean (in one piece) and sail around the carribean for around $50K?
My husband and I are new sailors and while we're gaining more experience we're talking about what boat we would like to buy someday to liveaboard for a year or more to see the world.
I really appreciate all of your feedback on what specs makes a good blue water vessel (besides having a good crew).
Thanks in advance!

jackdale · #2 (**permalink**) 02-09-2010

Have you had a chance to review this thread:

http://www.sailnet.com/forums/boat-r...ry-2008-a.html

You also need to sail a few different designs to see what you want / need in a boat. Look for charter companies that have some boats that you might like and take them out for a spin.

Barquito · #3 (**permalink**) 02-09-2010

I suggest starting on a regular diet of quality books on the topic. From what I have read, there is a broad spectrum of thought on what a good cruising boat should look like. However, there is also considerable overlap. You will have to digest the information and come to your own conclusion.

Bon Appetite.

(P.S. your appetizer will be trying to figure out what the 'good' sailing books are)

sailingdog · #4 (**permalink**) 02-10-2010

A good book to start with would be John Vigor's 20 Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere.

Yes, you can buy a bluewater capable boat for the budget you've got in mind, but it might have compromises you wouldn't need to make on a larger budget. All boats are compromises and finding one that has the compromises you can live with is the key.

I'd point out that if you're looking to just cruise the Caribbean, you may not need a full bluewater cruiser, as many people have cruised the Caribbean in coastal cruising designs, by picking their weather windows rather carefully.

canadianseamonkey · #5 (**permalink**) 02-10-2010

There's no magic answer...it's all about research.