Newbie

[rrodak]

Yes, I am looking for a stable boat to learn on for now. Thank you for your recommendations. I am not familiar with those boats, but will research them and see whats available in my area. Thanks again

Originally Posted by jimgo

If you are looking for stable over speedy, also keep an eye out for Diller Schwill (also called Schwill, or DS). Com-Pac, or Chryslers. Others may suggest otherwise, but even a Venture 17 (built by MacGregor) wouldn't be a bad starter/learning boat.

[jimgo]

I have a family of four, including a 3 year old and a 5 year old. Stability and a place for my kids to hide from the sun/rain were my priorities. I'm still a novice, but you're welcome to ask any questions.

[deeman]

Welcome to Sailnet. As you noticed you'll get lots of advice and opinions. Without a doubt you'll learn the finessing required to sail well in a small boat. With that said, MANY people have started on a 25 which is a pefect size for large inland lakes. I don't see any issues with cutting your teeth on the boat you listed. Looks nice!

[jimgo]

Not sure what you decided to do. If you DO decide to go with the C250, or another 25' Catalina, be sure to come over to Catalina - Capri - 25s International Association. There is some GREAT information over there!

[Umeds?]

Look at her lines. It's all about the lines. If they inspire beauty then you know you can come back to her day after day and she'll put a smile on your face everytime.

[Sublime]

Originally Posted by rrodak

Thank you for your advice I think that is my main concern with getting something small is capsizing easily. I will take a look at the American and similar.

And thanks for the welcome! On a side note, does anyone on the forums sail in north texas?

Yes. I'm at Ray Roberts.

Is there a sailing club near you? If I were you, I'd find one that has boats members can take out. Some of the bigger ones will have keel boats. Spend some time on a few to learn what you like what you don't like before purchasing a keel boat. They can be expensive and with the market right now, may be difficult to get rid of if you don't like that boat.

Over the summer, when the water warms up, take some small dinghy boats out, such as a sunfish or laser (sunfish are extremely simple and will allow you to focus on the basics).

It's my opinion that all sailors should spend some time on a dinghy boat. You'll quickly learn important things such as how to keep a boat from going over in a boat that can tolerate a capsize. It's no big deal in a little boat like a laser or sunfish. Just pop it right back up and off you go. Make sure the water is warm enough though.
Keel boats can go over too and a dinghy will train you to the point of it being muscle memory to quickly get an overwhelmed boat back under control.

A guy down the doc has that kind of catalina 250. He really enjoys it. It's nice to have your first boat as one you can get out of the water with a trailer rather than a lift while adjusting to the expense of a keel boat.

[DonScribner]

Kyle,

Are you looking to be an expert sailor, capable of handling all the comes against you, in tune with every flutter of dacron or quiver of line? Or, do you want to sail. Buy the 25 if that's what will get you on the water. You may become a world-class sailor on her decks, or you may become competent over time. Who know, you may hate it! (I don't think so) But, if getting a small, tippy, limited dinghy will chase you away from the life, don't bother. Buy the C25 with salon to sleep in, an icebox to cool the brew and a dingy to explore with. It's a great way to live life. There's nothing like sipping coffee, sitting on the transom listening the the gulls and the slap against the hull. Or sharing a little "Merlot" time with that certain someone. Yeah, get the 25.

[Southcoasting]

Be like me and decide your first boat will be a 27 foot sea worthy classic that you will use to learn on in your very first excursions...I was thinking like you at first but then thought, spending similar kind of money, I can just get a something a step bigger that can handle heavier winds/waters and is a good size for me, the wife, and some guests and I won't get the urge to go bigger after my first season...

At least that's what I wanted out of a boat...