Boat

Boat decision factors

Length: Assuming that I will be single handing, I prefer a boat in the 35-45' range. This is large enough to have a reasonable hull speed and small enough to keep sail size reasonable to allow a single person to manage them when in high winds.

Sloop vs. Ketch: While a ketch is generally slower than a sloop, all else being equal, the area of each sail is a bit smaller making them more manageable. A ketch also provides additional possibilities of balancing the boat to minimize pressure on the helm. A downside of a ketch is the added expense of an additional mast, rigging, sails, etc.

Rudder: A protected rudder is an absolute requirement for me. This means either a full-keel boat, or a rudder protected by a full skeg. A boat with a spade rudder is not being considered.

Hull: A fiberglass hull is the only type being considered due to the low-maintenance requirement. A hull built solidly that is likely to survive an impact is mandatory.

Keel: A modern fin keel is certainly faster than  a full keel due to reduced wetted surface, but they can present a challenge if it becomes necessary to heave to. Also, it is preferred that the lead ballast be encapsulated in the hull to eliminate the possibility of keel bolt failure.

Budget: $75K to ~$125K + 30% for refit cost

Speed: The guideline for speed is the PHRF rating used for handicapping boats for race events.

Guidance: The Best Used Boat Notebook by John Kretschmer is a great resource for information on blue water boats.

Selecting a boat for offshore cruising


One of the leading contenders is a Shannon 38 ketch (Mean PHRF rating 204). While it's a long way from being a speed demon. It will safely get from point A to B.

Shannon 38

This boat selection process is in great flux. Other considerations are boats by designer Robert Perry like the Valiant 40/42 (PHRF 144/135 ), Passport 40(PHRF 141 ), Baba 40 ketch (PHRF 222)

As the time draws nearer, the likelihood of my wife spending significant time on the boat will be a large decision factor. If that circumstance seems likely, interior accommodations will be a strong factor. I would even consider (gasp) a pilot house like the Panda 40

The Nordic 44 (PHRF 84) also looks interesting and is worth further investigation.