Looking to buy my first sailboat to cruise down the coast of the US, Mexico, Central America and across to the Pacific Islands. My budget is tight, and tops off around $15,000 for the boat alone, giving me another $5,000 to allow for the necessary upgrades/ancillary items I'll need for my cruise. My friend and I will be on the boat for some time, so the large beam and spacious interior of the late 70's Hunters seem to be a great option for livability. We're currently looking at a 1978 Hunter 30' (Hull # HUN50893M78F-30). Our primary concern is whether it is a capable vessel for such an extensive bluewater cruise?
Baja & Beyond-capable boat
- Thread starter Zaren
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I do believe a properly prepared h30 Cherubini can do that trip but it will take a much larger budget than $5K to get it ready. You have not mentioned the most important component of offshore sailing and that is the crew's experience. Building skills would render your most valuable asset.
The skill set is there, just not with this particular boat. Good news, it's a Cherubini! The plan stand that we will bolt down to SF late July, where the boat rests, and run extensive scrimmages in the bay before heading out of the gate for more trainning. In my experience, experience does not seem to transfer between boats entirely, hence the practice in the bay. People seem to be forcing the idea of roller furling out of my pocket. How necessary is such a luxury? Or is it just that, luxury?
Furthermore, I am worried that the 12 hp diesel is drastically underpowered given our open ocean goal. Would a three blade prop give enough extra umpfff, or do we need to re-power? If so, what would a good option be?
Furthermore, I am worried that the 12 hp diesel is drastically underpowered given our open ocean goal. Would a three blade prop give enough extra umpfff, or do we need to re-power? If so, what would a good option be?
Roller furling is not a necessity but it does provide convenience and safety. You can operate your headsail from the safety of the cockpit in foul weather or when single handling. A three blade prop provides more drag than the OEM two blade. A 12HP auxiliary engine is marginal for a 30' boat but the more important out there than power is having a reliable engine.
A lot of sailors have made ocean passages without roller furling. I would spend that money on a life raft if you do not already have one. Or at least an EPIRB. If you have those I would replace the standing rigging. It seems like a pretty thin budget - you should cover the basics first.
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