Bristol 43.3

[Bruceo1]

My wife and I are looking for a boat to use for extended, offshore cruising. Typically, the crew will consist of two moderately experienced sailors. We are particularly interested in either a Bristol 43.3 or a 47.7. Any experiences, thoughts or areas of concern about either the 43.3 or 47.7 would be appreciated.

Thanks

Bruce

[Dking59]

My wife and I have been looking at the Bristol 41.1 as a cruising boat. We would be coastal cruising and some offshore work. What I''m trying to resolve is the centerboard issue. Is it an asset or liability? I''m sure Ted Hood has designed a good sailing and comfortable boat, but have you had any feedback on the ceterboard issue for the Bristols.

Dennis

[sailingfool]

You really want to take this question to the Bristol email group - also check the archives for past conversations. We came close to buying a 35.5 several years ago, and I recall not hearing anything bad about the centerboard, although we felt the keel model would work better for us.

You can also search the web for reviews of Bristols/see if there''s one on Practical Sailor/ check this link at: http://members.aol.com/bristolyht/also check with brokers who have specialized in Bristols - we worked with folks at Bristol Yachts (http://www.bristolyachts.com/) who seemed to know the 35.5 inside out.
Finally you might call Little Harbor (http://www.lhyb.com/), as I believe Ted Hood is still around and you could never get better info than right from the horse''s mouth, so to speak.
Good luck.