Seidelmann 34
Bay Idyll;I actually have pictures of your 34 from the broker in my files.A very nice 34 specimen -best I can tell.This one looked like it was well cared for from the pictures & reveals a well founded yacht.However, not knowing just how old the pictures are makes a bit of a difference, as boats go down hill very fast when left unattended and uncared for.In your case, I see a nice yacht.In my case[hull #021 built in 1982] there were a fews issues.First, I think I was the 2nd owner( but I do find that hard to fathom) and the last owner left her to die[ie-lost interest].Price was extremely good, so after my survey, it was game on.I intend to rebuild the yacht from bow to stem....long story short and from what I gather from reading what other 34 owners have to say there are only 2-3 problems to be aware of.The rudders and lower bearings seem to be an area to pay attention to.Also I had a few areas of rot at the hatches on deck where the end grain bulsa had not been sealed well at the factory and water intrusion had caused the wood to rot.Fortunately, I did not see the same problem at the 8 opening ports, but I have spoken to owners of 34's who did find rot there as well.Most of the problems you will encounter are do to old age and poor maintenence, not poor construction.You will read stories by owners who say Seidelmann's are tender...to some extent this is so but I can sail my boat offshore in 30+ winds and any manner of seas with the proper reefs and balance of helm she is a rocket.But then most sailors who own 34's do not have BOC or Transatlantic off shore experience as I do and will not venture out on a day when it is blowing dogs off chains!.I chose the Seidelmann 34 because as a professional boat builder and yacht racer they had the headroom, balance, speed and most of the things I have come to see make for a good offshore and EXCELLENT near coast sailing vessel.I had considered this boat back in 1983 and have a letter from Bob Seidelmannn telling me of his thoughts on the new design.The problem areas you see will be the same as on any yacht from 24 to 124.It is all about up keep and maintenance. I would say- sail your boat every day in most any conditions....there are many on my dock who think I'm nuts to sail in 24 to 30 knots ....I say, not so____ if you leave the dock in 10 to 15 and 3 hours later you got 30.......if you have sailed in 30-NO PROBLEMO!!Stay at the dock all season and you will learn...well, maybe how to change your fuel filter, but not how to sail your 34....there is just no substitute for sailing. In my mind you have chosen a very good yacht and I looked at 50 + other brands and the Seidelmann 37.My objection with them was the inner liner.I have sailed the 37's and they handle well on any seas and in any winds.If I had not found this 34 I more than likely would have gone for the 37 Seidelmann.If I can give you any more info, call me at 904-349-6872 or Email : fmfdochawk@yahoo.com.I think you have a very fine yacht!Fair winds and Following seas!Cheers-Capt.HawkRogueWave