I have what most of you will think is a simple question. So I would like to explain about me before I ask the question:
Last year (2008) I purchased a 1981 Hunter 22 swing keel. I have been "restoring" it and intend to start sailing it in the Chesapeake Bay this spring/summer. Prior to this boat, I currently own a 14' Hobie Cat Turbo and a 16' motorboat, both of which I use on the lake where I live in PA. I grew up in San Diego until I joined the Army in 1985 where I also sailed a Hobie Cat in Mission Bay for a couple years (a friend and I bought it for $300.00 as teenagers). This is the extent of my boating skills...VERY basic. I will be taking ASA courses for keelboat sailing this spring. For the last 6 months have been devouring the internet and a 3' stack of books on everything from basic hull repair to Blue Water cruising. That (Blue Water cruising) has been my dream for many years and I am due to retire this year (age of 43). Thru the valuable information on this site I have learned that my "pocket cruiser" is only meant for protected water sailing. That is fine, I figure I will spend a few years doing bay sailing etc to learn the "sheets". I will then look for that Blue Water boat to make major ocean cruises.
So my question. While I have my H22, can it handle all portions of the "America's Great Loop Cruise Route"? From what I can determine, a large part of the route hugs the coast line. Can the H22 handle being a couple miles off shore during "average" weather conditions? Thank you for your indulgence!
Last year (2008) I purchased a 1981 Hunter 22 swing keel. I have been "restoring" it and intend to start sailing it in the Chesapeake Bay this spring/summer. Prior to this boat, I currently own a 14' Hobie Cat Turbo and a 16' motorboat, both of which I use on the lake where I live in PA. I grew up in San Diego until I joined the Army in 1985 where I also sailed a Hobie Cat in Mission Bay for a couple years (a friend and I bought it for $300.00 as teenagers). This is the extent of my boating skills...VERY basic. I will be taking ASA courses for keelboat sailing this spring. For the last 6 months have been devouring the internet and a 3' stack of books on everything from basic hull repair to Blue Water cruising. That (Blue Water cruising) has been my dream for many years and I am due to retire this year (age of 43). Thru the valuable information on this site I have learned that my "pocket cruiser" is only meant for protected water sailing. That is fine, I figure I will spend a few years doing bay sailing etc to learn the "sheets". I will then look for that Blue Water boat to make major ocean cruises.
So my question. While I have my H22, can it handle all portions of the "America's Great Loop Cruise Route"? From what I can determine, a large part of the route hugs the coast line. Can the H22 handle being a couple miles off shore during "average" weather conditions? Thank you for your indulgence!
