CPseudonym
Moderator Emeritus
John, it would be interesting to hear how you selected this boat over other similar size boats. Nordic and American Tug come mind, and I'm sure a number of others.
Absolutely
Inquiring minds want to know.
John, it would be interesting to hear how you selected this boat over other similar size boats. Nordic and American Tug come mind, and I'm sure a number of others.
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I thought I would post something related to our most difficult decision with this new build - stabilization. Since I wanted this boat to be simpler, I struggled with every "system" we considered installing especially stabilization. I figured we have three options; Active Fin Stabilization, Gyro and good old fashion speed................................John T
Used boats (plus cars and houses) are just not for us. I would rather pay a little more up front and enjoy the boat (with warranty) and know the odds are on our side that we shouldn’t have as many issues for the next five years.
My current boat is my 13th (or so, I have lost count) boat, but the first new one. One of my reasons for buying it was that I wanted the reliability that comes with new. In retrospect, I realize that a new boat with complicated systems requires a year or two of shakedown before it becomes optimally reliable. In that regard, I believe that a 1 or 2 year old boat, commissioned and maintained by a knowledgeable and experienced owner, is better than new.
My current boat is my 13th (or so, I have lost count) boat, but the first new one. One of my reasons for buying it was that I wanted the reliability that comes with new. In retrospect, I realize that a new boat with complicated systems requires a year or two of shakedown before it becomes optimally reliable. In that regard, I believe that a 1 or 2 year old boat, commissioned and maintained by a knowledgeable and experienced owner, is better than new.
John:
Is there a reason you didn't mention a sail as one of your stabilization options? I ask this because using an appropriately sized sail on a "trawler" type vessel can, and does on many boats, offer decent stabilization and with today's auto-furling sails they're easy peasy to use.
Our process of evaluating boat styles is done more from a “functionality” perspective versus how the boat looks. This approach has resulted in more than one discussion (not always pleasant) between Mary and me. Let’s be honest, most trawlers are not sexy or turn heads. It took me years to convince Mary to buy our first N40. We were both in our 40’s (still young) and use to fast boats and cars. Motoring along at six knots in something that looks more like a navy ship then a sleek looking “go-fast” wasn’t easy for her to grasp. While she finally came aboard she doesn't get very excited with the whole “trawler” concept from a visual perspective. To be honest I’m not very far behind her but I manage to maintain focused on what works while still appreciating the boats lines.
John, let's be honest, many of us here take exception to the first bolded sentence. Glad you're working on a new build; hope you enjoy the process. Attempting to elevating your choice by dismissing what so many others here find attractive and desirable in a boat is tactless. Don't want to hijack your thread, but hope in the future you can focus on the perceived positives of yours without intentionally or unintentionally insulting others.
Ted
John, let's be honest,
Thanks to everyone for your response. To be honest I was little concerned with openly sharing our journey including our process, thoughts, decisions and mistakes. I knew eventually we might rattle a few owners / dreamers. As I mentioned in first post "we are fans of all boats" regardless of make or model. If we happen to offend anyone with our thoughts or view points it is not intentional. I think everyone will agree that once you open yourself up to a public forum you will get criticized eventually. Just like our decision not to have stabilizers installed at this time. A few folks wrote this was a mistake, that's OK with us since its our decision. We recognize the risks with our decisions (some we may regret) but again this is our decision and our boat. We hope our journey and lesson's learned help more people then those we may rub the wrong way. Thanks
John
John: Since you're in CA and the build is in the PNW, who often do you plan on seeing her evolve? I'd almost want to move there but the builders would probably want to adjust the cost for owner participation. lol
Hi John, I have been reading the Forums for awhile now, so much great info, more on that in my intro....Just wanted to thank you for taking the time and allowing us a peak into your thinking and decision making process....The PH 38 has had my interest for some time. Looking forward to following along on your build , we might be following right behind you some day soon...Lastly, like you pointed out, when you put yourself out on public forums you will always rub someone the wrong way...just remember the people that you rub the wrong way are constantly looking to be rubbed the wrong way....so.....you are actually giving them what they want also....LOL, Thanks again...G
I haveI love reading your process and thoughts along the way and respect you've decided you don't need stabilizers. Most boats your size don't have them. I would ask if you'd looked at side-power vector fins in the process. They appear to be an excellent match for a boat in your size range. We did just order them on a boat. To this point they've been used more in Europe than elsewhere.
Wondering if you looked at the North Pacific Trawler?