Hi, and welcome to the forum.
The Vega is a very capable blue water boat according, to the people
who have gone offshore and circumnavigated. There's a good article in
the files section (TonySkidmore.pdf) chronicling a circumnavigation
in a Vega, and some of the improvements made for the adventure.
I think the most common issue addressed is the mast support beam. It
seems most Vegas have had a re-build in this area, and it's not that
big a job. The hulls are, for the most part, blister-free and very
sturdy, and the decks are cored with a synthetic material so rot is
not an issue.
Another area that has been reported as prone to failure is the
rudder. I suspect most of these failures were the result of abuse,
but that's just my opinion. The problem seems to stem from weld
failures in the inner reinforcing metal frame. There's a good file on
building a new rudder in the files section (How to build a
Vegarudder.pdf) but another approach is to split open the existing
rudder, repair the metal frame, and glass it back together.
Another "weak" spot is the stem fitting for the forestay. I don't
think they are strong enough for the rough treatment they get from a
roller furler. That said, mine lasted for 37 years before I replaced
it, not from failure but because it just didn't look too strong.
Some reports have mentioned "oil canning" at the bow, but I've never
experienced it, and have sailed in very rough conditions.
The big ports would be a worry offshore. VAGB offers aluminum-framed
ports (
http://www.albinvega.co.uk/windows.html) and others have
overlaid the opening with lexan and bolted through to the cabin sides
(
Albin Vega - The American Vega Association Home)
John Vigor's little book, "Twenty Small Boats to Take You Anywhere"
has a good Vega write-up.
There are a ton of messages on this forum and they're searchable.
Most things have been discussed in detail.
One last thought: The old Volvo Diesel and combi gear box/reverse
pitch prop combination seems to be ... ah ... not too ... ah (I risk
getting seared here, so enough said). Many boats have been refit with
a Beta, Yanmar, or other Diesel with normal transmission, shaft, and
prop. That said, the original setup serves many owners well.
I don't know what boat you had previously, but the Vega sails very
well. She won't point quite as high as some, but her long waterline
gives her a good turn of speed.
Good luck in your search, and I hope some of this info is helpful.
Peter
#1331 'Sin Tacha'
PS ... oh yes, she's a GREAT single-hander!
