Anyone familiar with 1974 Seafarer?

[ChristianSailing]

I'm considering the purchase of a 1974 Seafarer trailer sailor but I'm not familiar with the seaworthiness or other associated concerns. It's listed on Craigslist in Knoxville for $1900.

The cost is good and the story is "laid off from work and needs the boat gone". The owner was very nice but has never sailed the boat.

Any advice is appreciated.

[cjlmia]

Depending on the engine (ie running or not) and the state of the rigging, I think it looks like a pretty good deal. I tend to be optimistic in these types of purchases though I fell in love with my seafarer (1968 rhodes meridian) that I purchased last year.

You mention seaworthiness, I'd say that boat is suited for coastal cruising and inshore sailing only. Seems a bit light for anything offshore, although people have crossed oceans in less! If it has enough rigging to get on the water and start sailing with a minimum of additional purchases, I'd encourage you to go for it!

[svHyLyte]

For current info on the Seafarer click over to Cruisers Forum and correspond with a subscriber there known as BlackOak (see Attempted Trip to Bermuda - Cruisers & Sailing Forums)

[jrd22]

My father had a Seafarer of about that vintage, maybe late 60's. It was a dream to sail, other than that it seemed well built, that's about all I know.

[cjlmia]

I'll definitely second the sentiment that a seafarer is a pleasure to sail. The tiller requires a very light touch when the sails are well balanced, and she holds a course very well. I mostly sail single handed, and I can either lightly lash the tiller (with a few wraps of rope to the windward rail) or even just leave it if things are really well balanced. Then I can walk around on deck and tinker with sail trim/position etc., tidy lines, lean over the pulpit with fists pumping to the sky and shout "I'm the king of the world!" or just stare off into the water You know, normal sailor stuff LOL

It is also very nice to steer the boat by moving my weight fore and aft without having to touch the tiller or sail when things are balanced. I am a relative newbie to sailing, and I've enjoyed learning on my seafarer and developing a feel for the wind and the movement of the boat. She has also treated me well when I bite off more then I necessarily want to chew while sailing in rougher inlets and rougher seas

[ChristianSailing]

Thanks for the responses and keep em coming. I had a 28.5 Irwin which we really enjoyed but the economy took any spare monies from us for yacht club fees etc. I live on the water so in high water season I could leave the boat on one of the city moorings. Don't know about the motor but for a family if three who enjoys local overnight sailing, it looks perfect.

[ChristianSailing]

Originally Posted by svHyLyte

For current info on the Seafarer click over to Cruisers Forum and correspond with a subscriber there known as BlackOak (see Attempted Trip to Bermuda - Cruisers & Sailing Forums)

Thanks HyLyte. Gonna take a look. Every since we sold the Irwin, it's been torture to look out the windows of our home and see others on a Beam Reach. I'm working hard at not impulse buying but.....