Need Virginia ComPac/Precision 18-21' Advice

Posted By: Sunny
Date: 3/5/10 7:44a.m.

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I am looking to get back into sailing for myself and 12 year old. I learned 30 years ago on some really nice single and double masted affairs on the Chimsee in Germany, and I am scheduled for upgrading that with classes soon, and our 12 year old is scheduled for a week long class. Afterwards we are in the market to try and find an affordable sailboat. All of my research has led me to either a used or new 18 or 21 foot Precision or perhaps equivalent ComPacs. We have a place on the Norhtern Neck near Startford Harbour (Montross, VA) and draft has to be able to deal with a launch site with aobut 3-4 feet of water out to the waters of the Potomac near St. Clemente island (MD) and south I guess (Nomini Bay) etc. Waves in that area rarely exceed 2'. I will be trailering the boat a short distance most of the time until I can figure out where it is best to leave but in the meantime want an easy to rig (step the mast each time) boat. From what I read the Precsion 21 takes more than one to rig but the 18 is a fully one person operation. Many times I will have to set this up alone so is that correct?? Are the Compacs easier? What trade offs should I be looking at between these designs? Is there anyone in the forum that can give some advise on the handling - maintenance - need to know and or recommendations as I proceed down this path strewn with doubt cast on the entire idea by spouse who is not really enamored to sailing in the first place but I know can be won over if it is not too big of a struggle?? Thanks Sunny