sailing alone

[baggywinkles]

Would some of you please give me good recommendations as to a suitable small boat to buy (used) to sail from Sarasota to Key West and around the islands. I'll be sailing alone. Nothing over 22" please. <br /><br />And, would you mind commenting on these two boats suitability (if you have knowledge of them)? Hurley-20, Harpoon-6.2<br /><br />Thanks mates.<br />baggywinkles

 

[BillP]

Re: sailing alone

You may want to consider a 23'Westerly Pageant. It's bigger than 22' but not much. Nice little boat and built with a Lloyds certificate. Many of their bigger sisters (25' Centaur) sail across oceans with zero problems. I looked at a Pageant a few weeks ago and was impressed. They can be found with inboard diesels too for under $10k.

 

[baggywinkles]

Re: sailing alone

Thank you Bill P. I'll check out the "Westerly". I'm still open for any other suggestions anyone may have, too.<br />baggy

 

[Oldsaltydog]

Re: sailing alone

If you are still looking, you may want to consider the following -- Precison 19 or 23, O'Day 22 or 23, Compac 16, 19, and 23. Of course, in boats of this type and size, you would need to stay close to shore and watch the weather -- comments based on experience. Good sailing! Make sure to let out a long, floating trailing line, if you plan to go it alone.

 

[Raghauler]

Re: sailing alone

I can only add my comments. My 1974 O'Day 22 is built like it is made out of reinforced concrete. Of course, it's not the craft you're looking for if you want to get there quickly. There are many other makes I would trust. See what's available locally and have potential prospects surveyed for what you have in mind. <br /><br />And don't get me wrong, I'm a social guy that loves to take others sailing, but every once in a while, I enjoy getting out solo to mull life over... It's usually less stressful that way (see my sig).