looking for 18'' boat

[FRRizzo111]

I''m looking to buy a sailboat roughly 18 feet long that is a keel/centerboard boat.

This will be my first sailboat and plan to use it as a starter boat. It will be sailed mostly on a river and bay.

I was thinking the Precision 18 but would like to look at other boats as well.

Any suggestions or thoughts on the Precision 18

[msl]

You owe it to yourself to look into: Montgomery 17
Ideal 18
and
soooo many others.

[waltzingmatilda]

I have a Hunter 18.5, a fixed keel boat, with a furling jib, trailer, recent barrier coat, and in overall good condition. She has been out of the water for the past two seasons because I have upgraded to a Cape Dory 26. The boat has never seen saltwater, has been sailed on Lake Erie, and is a nice sailing boat. I''m anxious to sell her, but have not had her on the market yet. If you''re interested email me to the above email address, or to pkozup@juno.com, and I will be glad to negotiate with you.

[goduke]

Check out a Lightning

www.lightningclass.org

[Silmaril]

I second the Lightning (and 3rd and 4th). You will be hard pressed to find a better all around boat to learn on. You can find very nice ones in the 3,000 - 4,000 price range. It is an ageless S&S design for a 6 passenger family day sailer that can go racing if you are ever inclined.

[mcain]

I learned on a lightning. Great boat to learn on. Flying Scot is an updated version. Both 19''. Not real expensive, can race if desired.

[Silmaril]

The Flying Scott is a great choice also. I believe that they may be a little more of a handfull for a beginner. Their rounded chine is a bit less forgiving, and they carry a little more sail area. The Lightning, with its hard chine holds its line and heel with a little more "conviction". That, and the Lightning class association is one of the most active, world wide.

Don''t get me wrong, the FS is a GREAT boat, but it may intimidate if the weather gets going...