Size Dilemma

Posted By: Jim I, 94 S25 'H2O', Wilmington, NC
Date: 4/2/09 1:09p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: The Dilemma (Scott, Seaward 23)

Scott, I have that same size dilemma every month about the time SAIL magazine arrives in my mailbox. I look at the larger boats and think what if? I could do some coastal cruising with the family in a 30 footer. I wish I could buy a chunk of land on a bay with a dock in front and spend my weekends living on the boat. What keeps me sane is I have not stepped foot on a 32' Eagle yet. The 30 footers of my dreams come with no trailer, yard fees and a big dilemma if a hurricane comes to town...Again. Our 25 is our first boat. I need a boat that can be trailered. That can be done with a 32' Eagle but I would need a permit, can't tow it on Sundays and probably could not fit it in my driveway next to all my other toys. As you can see from the boards, there is only the occasional post from a 32' owner. Sailing a 32' appears to be a different experience. Folks here do have slips and permanent moorings, but also have that wandering spirit that might lead then to load up the trailer and head for the Keys or the North Channel. Having your girlfriend support you is key. My family factored heavily in my choice of a Seaward. Having a shallow draft, manageable 25 footer with a wheel and diesel means that I can get to the places I want to sail and my kids can still take their turn at the wheel or on the sheets. I also have poured a lot of time, money and effort into our boat in only two short years. For me that is half the fun. There are many tempting deals on 32' out there, I just hope none of them pop up close enough for me to look at! Right now I am willing to settle for that big boat feel in a slightly smaller package. My wife is an accountant and sums it up this way, "This one is paid for!" Jim