Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

[Milad]

I have never owned a yacht, but have always loved to sail.<br /><br />I am looking for a classical style yacht or yacht company, that fits into that.<br /><br />I looked at hte Hans Christian and it looked like what I wanted but I really want more input for this forum.<br /><br />I am mainly going to be sailing the easter coast and maybe going to the Caribbean. What would you guys suggest? What manufacturers have what I am looking for?<br /><br />-Thanks for you time,<br />---Milad

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Milad,<br /> If you are looking for a "true" classic boat and you don't mind having a wooden boat.Look for a restored Herrshoff sloop(or whatever) for sale.You can't get any more classic than that. <br />The Herrshoff name is the epitomy of classic sailboats of all sizes.Beautiful wooden boats with great lines.Other names include Alden yachts,Sparkman&Stephens,Tartan,Island Packet,etc.<br />How bout an issue of Sailing magazine or Wooden Boat and a box of Kleenex(to catch the drool)? What size range are you looking for?New or used?Glass or wood?The restored boats are not cheap by any means.

 

[Milad]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Sorry for the late reply I was away on business.<br /><br />I was originally looking for a wooden, but I learned that they only last for 20 years. I guess I might be considering glass, is there anyway to get one that is glass yet has atleast somekind of classic look to it?<br /><br />I would like a 50"-60".<br /><br />used would be good or atleast one that is new and not too expensive. Somthing that could take atleast 7-8 people.<br /><br />Well I guess the restored is out of the question then lol.<br /><br />I also might be going to the Mediterranean and from there going to Somaliland which is a breakaway republic of Somalia, are there certain boats that are good for those kind of waters?<br /><br />Thank you soo much for your reply Reel Appeal<br /><br />-Milad

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Milad,<br /> Sounds like your planning some serious cruising.....I don't know where you heard wooden boats only last 20 years...My father had a 31' Hershoff sloop(wood) from the late 40's to 1970's.A fast old classic boat that could outrun a catamaran(and others) on a downwind tack.The boat was built in 1898(no typo)and used in Maine prior to his ownership.Today,it is being restored(after 100+ years).He donated it back to the Hershoff museum(for health/age reasons).Every boat is different.All it takes is maintenance.The other alternative is what is called a "cold-molded" boat.There are manufacturers that replicate classic sailboats(styling).For 7 or 8 people(comfortably), you are in the correct size range.There are many 40' range sailboats out there,but accommodations would be tight.If you consider a wooden boat,have it inspected by a marine surveyor for problems before purchase.Look for rot,broken ribs,water in bilge(leaks)etc.Make sure you know what your getting into.You may also want to consider a pilothouse to keep out of the sun/rain.Thats a personal decision.Also,a long "range" is important as well as an auxiallary(diesel) engine/and generator(for extended trips).Keep in mind there may not always be wind,so a large fuel tank is a good idea.I strongly suggest getting a copy of Wooden boat magazine.Many builders and new/used boats for sale.Keep in mind wooden boats are generally cost more to maintain and require more upkeep.Then again,what boat is not expensive to maintain.

 

[rons boat]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

I love my Compac with its brass portholes and classic lines. I am not an expert but they are known for their cut above the rest hand laid fiberglass hulls and classic look. They are built by the Huchins Yacht Company in Clearwater FL, www.Com-PacYachts.com There is an owners webb site as well. They took over the Watkins 25 and added it to thier line which goes up to 35 feet. I just visited the factory and saw the 35 boat. With its' 12 foot beam and every imagineable feature, it would be my choice. It is a preminum boat and comes with a pretty good price tag but it's only money. My Com-Pac 23 has been all over the Caribbian before I rudely moved it to my lake home in Arkansas. These boats don't get old as mine looks new. It is a 1981 model.

 

[Milad]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Thank you guys soo much for your advice, well atleast I know I can keep a wooden boat longer than I was originally told.<br /><br />I am still looking to find that one boat that will last me a life time.<br /><br />Thanks again for all your imput atleast now I know where to look.<br /><br />-Milad

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Milad,<br /> One last note referring to longevity with a wooden boat.The type of wood used in construction is important(hardwood such as oak,teak,mahogany best).There are also many varieties of each type.The type of fasteners used in the hull are very important(avoid steel),stainless or bronze,monel best.Wooden boats are best stored in the water.Always allow plenty of ventilation if covered.

 

[rons boat]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Interesting discussion. I forgot to amplify that some of the best fiberglass (composite) sailboats don't use any wood at all in the strength members of the boat. Some of the lesser quality fiberglass ones still do and historically have had problems with wood rot in critical areas. Instead,the Com-Pac and several others take silica, and heat it till it expands like pop-corn to crystals that provide the strength of the boat. Even though my boat has all sorts of beautiful wood on it, it doesn't use any wood members for the basic structure. Composites allow the beauty of the classic lines to be put into the boat by the designer without the maintenace problems associated with this construction. As for me there are plenty of tasks. I spend a lot of time trying to keep it clean and working on the teak trim. I admire those of you who have the time to keep a beautiful wooden boat maintained. I guess some of us simply don't have the staff or the time to keep the wooden craft ship shape.

 

[sloopy]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

What size yacht do you want? People say yachts start at 40 feet but IMHO a yacht is any boat with tons of teak and shinny brass! So in other words a 12 foot boat could be a yacht. <br />ALSO what type of sailing are you going to do?

 

[camdenboat]

Re: Looking for Classical Yachts Need Help

Milad,<br /><br />Read with interest your passion for wooden boats and some of the replies here. However, some important issues missing if your heart is intent on a wooden boat. <br /> <br />-Get yourself a good wooden broker and a wooden boat surveyor, both experts in wooden boats. Get the picture! Going to a broker who doesn't have a wooden boat in his listing, tells you something! I strongly suggest you visit Bill Cannell's website: http://www.cannellclassicboats.com/ <br /> <br />-Get references from the surveyor too, ask which boats he's surveyed in the last year or 2. Paying for it now will solve a lot of problems down the road. <br /><br />-Get a good pedigree from a good yard. Herreshoffs, Aldens, S&S's are great boats, but it depends who built them. Do your homework! <br />Be prepared to spend money! Wooden or fiberglass. <br /><br />-A very good rule of thumb for estimating refurbishing costs is to allow at least 50% of the purchase price for a boat in average condition and 100% for one in poor condition. These numbers assume that the costs go to engine, machinery, various systems and interiors. However, more extensive refits require even more (such as repainting and major interior renovations or new equipment additions) and are not beyond the bounds of being a reasonable investment. Ultimately, it all depends on the relationship between replacement cost and purchase price, and how far you want to go toward making the yacht look and function like new.<br /><br />Anyway, I hope this helps. I can offer my services if you require them.<br /><br />Kind Regards,<br /><br />Greg Russell