long term cruising

[gulfstar43]

I have a 1977 Gulfstar ketch and thinking of doing some long-term cruising. The boat has always been exceptionally well maintained, so I''m not too concerned with the age. I''m interested to know if anyone has had experiences distance cruising with these boats. Negatives? Positives? Any recommended modifications?

[WHOOSH]

GS 43:

What kind of cruising are you planning? (''Cruising'' enjoys an immense variety of meanings here). What kinds of weather & seas will you see? How much will be coastal or in protected waters? How able and how many the crew? How suitable is a your particular boat (not known for its sailing ability, especially to windward) for your plans?

It''s pretty normal to look at a well maintained boat used locally and, with fresh eyes due to expanded sailing plans, see a boat in need of much work. We sail a 1979 42'' ketch and I conceptually see no worries about the boat''s age. OTOH just about everything has been replaced now except the hull, deck, interior & spars. Depending on your plans, you may want to use Calder''s Electrical/Mechanical Guide contents as somewhat of a checklist, asking yourself which systems and gear have seen little use, are long in the tooth, and/or are essential to the boat functioning & the crew''s safety - and dig in.

But first, share your thoughts on what kind of cruising you''ll be doing and folks here can probably give you more helpful advice.

Jack

[sailorrest]

Everyone finds their own poison as far as their boats is concerned. Tom Neale and Mel have been aboard Gulfstars for years. The age of the boat will matter little. Systems, systems, systems. As mentioned you must define your crusing. Always outfit for the most ambitious cruising you may undertake.