So, now that you have had all the great advise and had time to think it over, what boat did you buy?
I got myself a Fleming 75 with a full crew and a twelve pound fortress anchor.
No, not really. For the time being, I'll have to make do with my kayaks for a few more years.
Originally, I really wanted a KK42. I loved the look, the layout, and the idea of a raised pilothouse with doors opening to walk around side decks on either side. I loved the way the galley and [STRIKE]salon[/STRIKE] [STRIKE]saloon [/STRIKE]living room opened out onto the big covered cockpit. It ticked all the boxes really. I went and looked at several of them.
Turns out, I can't afford one that's worth buying. They're all getting a bit old now, and will be even older in another 4 years. There's no doubt that there are still some beautiful examples of them still out there, they're just worth more than I can afford. I'm not looking for a project. Also, I'm fully planning on financing a small portion of the boat. That's difficult to do with a boat that's more than 20 years old.
In the end, the KKs are great boats, but they're more than I need. I don't have any grand plans to cross oceans. Realistically, a good coastal cruiser will much better suit my needs, and my budget.
At this point, what I'd like to do is get the nicest, newest Monk 36 I can lay my hands on. That's with the market as it stands right now, at least. Who knows what will be for sale in another four years.
36 feet is definitely at the bottom end in terms of the size range I've been considering, but having been aboard a few, I really like the Monks a lot. I think the layout makes very good use of space, and feels more cozy than cramped to me. I've been on bigger boats that were much less comfortable. I think it'll be enough. And because I'm not going for something bigger, I can get something newer and better maintained and fitted out. In theory anyway.
Even if it's not a Monk 36, I'd like something in the same vein. Something manageable. Something I can single hand without it being a pain. Walk around side decks are a huge plus, and doors on both sides of the house are preferred. I'd prefer a single diesel with a bow thruster. My backup engine will be a TowBoat US membership. Minimal exterior teak, and as low maintenance as possible. My preliminary budget at this point is 180,000.