Inland Vs Offshore

[mepstein]

I’m currently looking to buy a boat primarily for use on the French inland waterways. However, as an ex-yachtsman switching for health reasons to a more easy-going environment, I’d like to have the option of some coastal cruising (Med) or even to cross the channel on a good day. My 2 questions are:
1) what distinguishes an inland cruiser from one capable of putting to sea (draught? power?)
2) what would anyone recommend given a budget of around £60. As I might be spending extended periods living on board I’m looking for some decent space and comfort rather than high performance/speed.

 

[sarabande]

Do you still want the capability to do some environmentally friendly sailing, as well ? If so a number of options lie with motorsailers, such a Colvic Watson (e.g the size sailed by Colin Jones in PBO) which does French canals and sea trips.

I'm biased, with a slightly longer and deeper version, but there are many other makes, all with strong adherents here.

BTW

Welcome to the Forum. Ad a few bits of info in your bio, and join in the fun and occasional mayhem. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Channel Ribs]

Edit: I made the assumption you were looking for a motor boat, sorry if that is wrong.

I would go for something like this:
Boats & Outboards

Not sure if the fly bridge screen will fold, but if it would then you have the best of all worlds.

 

[mepstein]

Thanks Malthouse,
Yes - motorboat. Sadly tumour damage to my back means pulling on sheets, hauling up sails and straining on winches is no longer viable.

The Norseman looks good - I guess height for tunnels/bridges and depth for canals is the main issue.

 

[Channel Ribs]

A lot of people feel more confident cruising offshore and cross channel with two engines, the benefit of course with a sailing yacht is that any engine is only ever an auxilary. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

The French canals are pretty broad and deep, with high bridges - at least compared to English waterways. Hopefully someone will stop by with a hard and fast maximum for air and water draft figure.

 

[walto]

There are many Linssons crusing around the French canals. These appear to be the ideal canal boat, not only for comfort but also suitable in draft and height. They are also suitable for sea cruising, though I'm not sure about "sailing the Atlantic"
Some of the canals are now advising a depth of 1.2 metres.
Good luck on your search... try www.aquarelle-france.fr
Paul here in Auxerre (canals Bourgogne and Nivernais) hires out Lissons for cruising the canals, and also has a few for sale.