andyb28
Member
Good Evening Everyone,
I have my list of potential bigger boats down to 3 and would really like to hear opinions from the forum. As I see it, for me each of these boats have features I like. Looking at around 32 foot size and dont want anything older than late 90's.
My sailing area on the East coast is shallow and muddy. I like to have the ability to dry out and I need the ability to have a fairly shallow draft at times.
Hunter 32/3 - Is a shallow draft for its size (1.2m). I have had Hunters before (Horizon 23 / Pilot 27) and like them a lot. Obviously it can dry out without issue.
Beneteau Oceanis 311 (Lift Keel) - Lovely looking boat, more modern and has my preferred wheel steering. Seems they can dry out with the keel up by sitting on what remains of the keel and the two rudders.
Parker 325/335 - Has great reviews, also has my preferred wheel steering and can dry out on the lifting wing keel. Maybe a little concerned about the hydraulic ram maintenance, although Parker owners say this isnt too bad.
Having never had a lift keel before, I also have a question about these specific lift keel boats.
They seem to have a deeper draft than their standard fin keel versions. 2m+ is roughly the figure. Do you need to sail with the keel all the way down, or can you perhaps put it half way down and still sail ok?
I have my list of potential bigger boats down to 3 and would really like to hear opinions from the forum. As I see it, for me each of these boats have features I like. Looking at around 32 foot size and dont want anything older than late 90's.
My sailing area on the East coast is shallow and muddy. I like to have the ability to dry out and I need the ability to have a fairly shallow draft at times.
Hunter 32/3 - Is a shallow draft for its size (1.2m). I have had Hunters before (Horizon 23 / Pilot 27) and like them a lot. Obviously it can dry out without issue.
Beneteau Oceanis 311 (Lift Keel) - Lovely looking boat, more modern and has my preferred wheel steering. Seems they can dry out with the keel up by sitting on what remains of the keel and the two rudders.
Parker 325/335 - Has great reviews, also has my preferred wheel steering and can dry out on the lifting wing keel. Maybe a little concerned about the hydraulic ram maintenance, although Parker owners say this isnt too bad.
Having never had a lift keel before, I also have a question about these specific lift keel boats.
They seem to have a deeper draft than their standard fin keel versions. 2m+ is roughly the figure. Do you need to sail with the keel all the way down, or can you perhaps put it half way down and still sail ok?