Clipper 24

[cjoy]

Hello All,
I am a new user. I also am a first time boat buyer. I am looking for a bilge keel and located a Clipper 24.
I want a boat to play with this summer - not a forever boat, but a starter boat- something to take me into the shallow places this summer on north vancouver island, inland waters...something to kick around and become more familiar with mechanics, electronics, wind , sea, navigation.
This is a heavy boat displacing 3000lbs. with a ballast of 1522lbs. It comes with a 5 hp outboard. I am wondering with that kind of boat weight, how large of a motor can this clipper handle? I was thinking of buying a 9.9.
Also I am hearing plenty of negative feedback on the clipper.
I am wondering: does this boat rot easily? Are there things that can go wrong easily? Just looking for some feedback for a first timer!! Thanks

[svHyLyte]

I suggest you Google Clipper Marine and read some of the discussions on the various forums before you make a decision. At least some of the Clipper Marine boats were among the worst boats ever foisted off on unsuspecting buyers and usually unknowing beginners. After having done your research, before even considering buying the boat have a very good survey done and then make a decision. Nothing is as discouraging to a beginner as an unreliable problem-plagued boat, to say nothing of a danger to him or her.

FWIW...

[cjoy]

Yes, your statements corroborate a bit of the research and googling I have found so far on this type of boat...
THe current owner speaks very highly and dearly of her. She has been in the water for a few years without a good scrape, if I am understanding correctly, and needs at least a good clean.
I also notice that people describe her rigging as light! so, that could be a weak point?? And I found other disgruntled comments too.
My dilemma is that I want something small, double keeled and fairly inexpensive to get me started on the water asap. I want to do a little trip up some of the inlets here. ..to play in the bay.
At the moment, I am not looking for something with a great resale value; nor am I looking for my forever boat...this would be a starter boat, something to learn on...something to tinker with...
But I have the nagging suspicion that I am misguided in thinking sailing is a worry free passion...or that I can get away with buying something for $2k without some degree of worry , work and repair.
I am looking for a small, reliable, easy to handle starter boat. The Tanzer has been recommended, so has a Catalina 27
I appreciate your input.