What do you want from the boat, see the seal association for some info, I would like one because they are a good comprimise between sailability, beachability and trailability, pitty they are quite so expensive.
Like the previous reply, I looked at the Parker 23 and 26.
Good sailing and clever designs, though expensive compared to other (older) designs.
I didn't like the open plan layout of the 23 but it does give more usable space.
Have a look at the owners web site: sealasc.org.uk
They are expensive, but IMHO the best buy if you are looking for good sailing and good design.
I did also consider the Dehler range. These IMHO are a proper go anywhere little yacht, very pretty with very clever design for raising lowering mast and launch recovery system and the best use of interior space. Though they are less roomy and less head room & more draft with keel up due to stub.
I ended up with a Hunter Delta 25 with lifting keel. Very fast and a killer to windward. disadvantage over the Dehler or Parker/Superseal was that the keel was raised into the main cabin. Both Dehler and Parker/Superseal raise keel in an enclosed box.
Parker/Superseal have most of ballast moulded into hull and a light semi-ballasted keel, which can easily be raised & lowered with a sheet winch mounted on deck. Hunter had all the ballast in the keel which made her tender with the keel raised, Dehler has a ballasted stub and swing keel, a compromised between the other 2.
Sorry but I haven't really answered your question.
If I had the money, would go for any one of the Parker range or the older Superseal, because they give the most space down below without compromising on sailing performance.
To sum up IMHO:
Hunter Delta 25 has excellent performance under sail and very good stowage, but less head room than the Parker/Superseal.
Dehler is the best looking and the one I'd feel most comfortable in at sea but offers the least room down below.
Cheers
Homa
