Best Boat for the Chesapeake Bay?

[T37Chef]

Maybe an impossible question to answer, but just for fun...what boat/boats would you select for sailing the Chesapeake (only the bay) and why? (cost not matter)

[WouldaShoulda]

A boat no greater than 32ft that draws no more than 5ft.

Why??

Because that's all one needs to day sail, cruise or occasionally circumnavigate Delmarva.

[jameswilson29]

As I see it, the three characteristics of the Chesapeake are light winds, shoals, and chop.

Bad: heavy, deep draft, long overhangs
Good: High SA/disp, moderate draft, short overhangs, reliable engine.

[jorgenl]

If boat would only be used on the Chessie for weekend and up to weeklong Cruises, I would go for a light air performer.

Maybe a J-boat

or:

Sunfast 3200

2009 Jeanneau 3200 Sun Fast Sail Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com

[DRFerron]

Even though our fin keel limits where we can sail on the Bay and rules out some marinas, we wouldn't change it. I'd rather be able to plow through most spots where we touch than dig in with a wing keel and be stuck there until whenever.

[DRFerron]

Originally Posted by T37Chef

Maybe an impossible question to answer, but just for fun...what boat/boats would you select for sailing the Chesapeake (only the bay) and why? (cost not matter)

Of course, after you have about four pages of answers someone new to the forum will probably start a new thread with this exact question.

[CalebD]

I like the idea of a keel boat having a center board as well. That would include my little Tartan 27', the Tartan 34 and some 37's as well.
The center board acts as a kind of depth alarm which is easily raised.
The pervasive feature of the Chessy is skinny water so it's best to have a good way of dealing with that.

[therapy23]

A Gemini.

Of course.

[T37Chef]

I've had the romantic idea to restore and convert a Skipjack to a comfortable family cruiser. If I had the $$ it would be an interesting project. I have seen one, I think it was on the Sassafras?

I find our current boat is pretty ideal with a 4'2" draft with c/b and respectable light wind performance, but lacks some things I would like such as a swim platform, island berth, larger cockpit...

[PalmettoSailor]

Originally Posted by therapy23

A Gemini.

Of course.

Gunboat 66!