Posted by Ol Bill
on 3/14/2009, 5:43:12, in reply to "Re: Your Ideal Boat"
I think the ideal boat varies, according to a great variety of factors: one's sailing environment, personal past history & interest & skill level, access, money and etc.
Bottom line is the best boat is one that: you can easily tow with your vehicle, that is safe & appropriate for your conditions and abilities, one that you really like, and importantly that you will actually sail.
A boat that is perfect, but that you spend all your time off working to pay for and can't get loose to go out to sail, is not as good as a still fit and secure but a a tad eye worn old soul that you will really sail frequently. Speaking only for myself of course, but others might fine it so as well.
I have thus far resisted the urge to try and put a sport car slick paint job on our boat, though she doesn't presently look the least bit frumpy. I just don't want to have to start sweating when beaching her (rocky/sand shore line), and begin worrying about scratching her then 'mirror finish'. I like sticking with the gel coat, a nice vintage robin egg blue patina. I do try to keep her brightwork slick, and that reminds me, I have some touching up to do this spring.
Personally, I have a Siren 17 Micro Cruiser. A roomy (for a mini-cruiser) & light to tow boat; we have sure had a load of fun with her.
And of course (as is oligatory sooner or later with all sailboats) a few momnets of sheer terror. Our highland lake can be quite windy, and suddenly so, we got caught out last weekend in some lower thirties mph gusts last weekend in her (vai me trusty Dyer wind meter) and in spite of her extra sand bags ballast killed her canvas & quick beat it for a cove.
We don't hesitate to think about taking her out for a week or better, but usually just weekend sail her. Preferably, a long weekend on our highland TVA lake.
Cheers then,
Ol Bill
The above information is NOT advice, it is only informal web chat; completely at your own sole risk.
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