Sea worthiness

[Jan Zoeteman]

Hello, guess I am coming to the experts here. First post for me on this forum. Last October (2004) I bought a 1991 35s5 which was initially used to race and eventually turned into a liveaboard boat by the previous owner.Since Oct. I have replaced the jib, overhauled the transmission and changed a lot of little things. My initial tought was to use this boat to gain enough experience to eventually retire and cruise and/or even circumvent (within the next 5 years). Since I got a reasonable deal on this boat and since I have already put some good money in it I am considering of dropping my plan to upgrade to a real bluewater cruiser and use this 35s5 for my retirement plans. Even though it is a light boat, the construction is sturdy and I feel that, with reasonable caution, this boat can be sailed around the world.Are there any other First35 owners out there that have/had similar plans and if so, what kind of changes did or are you planning to make. If there are any, I'd also like to hear the negative points.Thanks

 

[Charlie Gruetzner - BeneteauOwners.net]

Cruising

Jan, there are so many variables it is very difficult to answer your question.. Can your boat circumnavigate - yes but with some modifications. and upgrades. There is a lot of information regarding this topic in the archives. Try running through tht stuff and then maybe find someone you know with a lot of offshore experieince that can help you modify your boat or tell you it is not such a good idea.Good luck Charlie

 

[Shelley]

35s5 Offshore

Hi Jan,I also have a 35s5 with the same dilemma as you! I know of someone in my offshore cruising club who also has a 35s5 and IS planning a trip to the South Pacific from the west coast. He leaves for Alaska this summer for a shakedown, then down the coast at the end of August (we're in BC). I'll see if he's interested in responding to your post.Shelley

 

[Jan]

Thank you

Thank you for your response. Is that by any chance s/v Shearwater that is planning to go to the SoPac? Last year I corresponded with the owner of Shearwater and they already had made extensive upgrades. They had a website but I don't seem to be able to find that anymore.Jan