Blue Water or Coastal sailing possibilities?

[Islescape]

While I've sailed the Caribbean and the Pacific NW alot I dream of doing the PAC, Puddle Jump, Baha Ha Ha etc. My question concerns my 1998, 38ft shoal draft cruiser. Am I wrong to think this boat would be a "good choice" for sailing these blue water events. Would I be better of to purchase a slower full keel boat or different boat altogether? Your thoughts / comments are appreciated. Thanks Greg

 

[Jackdaw]

Well it's not ideal for that as you note. Mostly designed for coastal work and charter, it has interior space high on the list. Down there you would probably add some more handholds. Lee cloths in the berths. things like that. The shoal keel would probably be OK, but with more motion, slower speed, and less weatherly performance.

For sure I would have a rigger add babystay to the rig. Keep the mast from pumping in the swells. Not a nice sensation at all.

Switch out boats? Valiant 40? Don't think it would be much slower, and designed for that kind of work. Me, I'd go with a Pogo 12.50!

 

[Gunni]

Not familiar with that older model, but Beneteau shoal drafts typically have a heavier keel - to make up for draft. A shoal draft may give up a few degrees of pointing, but not enough to care about. But if you are voyaging, you want pick your weather conditions and avoid a long beat anyway. If you have a US Spars double spreader rig you have an overbuilt rig. My boat is 4'9" draft and she is a fine off-shore boat. Very kind, solid. So in sum, if the boat systems are ready to go, the only question would be; are you?

 

[Islescape]

Thank you Gunni, I appreciate your insight! Yes I do have a US Spar with double spreader with an in mast rigging. It also has a 6 ft keel, but you are right in asking the question....am I ready?....not yet but hopefully soon! Thanks again.