Opinions on the Hughes Columbia 35

[Allan C&C Less]

Hi folks!
Would like your opinions on the Hughes Columbia 35. It was also called the 10.7 wide-body I believe.
I am searching for a cruiser, not a racer. Are these boats well built? I am not looking to cross the pond. But maybe head south to the Bahamas perhaps. I know little about them except that they were built not far from my home town.

Thanks, Allan

[relmason]

I just bought a 1979 10.7 from a fellow who has sailed and owned numerous boats for much of his 75 years and though my personal experience is very limited so far, he stated that this boat pointed very well and rode rough seas quite comfortably having singled-handed it from the Keys to Mobile and on up to Kentucky Lake where she's berthed for the time being. I am close to completing some modifications before heading down toward St. Croix (if the oil spill doesn't alter that plan). I'll let you know more as I sail her tis Summer.

[oaklandsailor]

Originally Posted by relmason

I just bought a 1979 10.7 from a fellow who has sailed and owned numerous boats for much of his 75 years and though my personal experience is very limited so far, he stated that this boat pointed very well and rode rough seas quite comfortably having singled-handed it from the Keys to Mobile and on up to Kentucky Lake where she's berthed for the time being. I am close to completing some modifications before heading down toward St. Croix (if the oil spill doesn't alter that plan). I'll let you know more as I sail her tis Summer.

Question: Is it your understanding the the 10.7 is a blue water boat and can safely/comfortably make ocean crossings? Anyone out the have info on this please feel free to comment.

Thanks,
OS

[killarney_sailor]

I think these boats were built to a price and one would require a lot of upgrades to make it suitable for bluewater passages (and I do not consider going to the Bahamas bluewater).

[oaklandsailor]

Originally Posted by killarney_sailor

I think these boats were built to a price and one would require a lot of upgrades to make it suitable for bluewater passages (and I do not consider going to the Bahamas bluewater).

Thanks for your input and sorry not to respond earlier.