Sorry, but Hunter, Catalina or Beneteau

[Mick Driver]

Sorry to add to what seems to be a hot subject but some of us new buyers need as much help as we can get, even if it is biased. I'm looking at Catalina, Hunter and beneteau's 28 foot boats. Need shallow draft(<4'), an aft cabin, roller furling head sails, wheel steering, etc. We can aford approximately $40K tops, so it will be an older boat. Any opions will be greatfully accepted, any years to avoid on any manufacturer? specific problems to avoid, etc. We sail on the Delaware river NJ/PA so a decend engine is a factor also (current can be 6 knots at times). Thanks in anticipation, Mick

 

[Pat Spino]

Decisions, decisions, decisions

I own a Hunter Legend 35.5. Having said that you might think that I am partial to Hunters. Not so, even though I really like my boat. The three big builders that you mention have all done their marketing homework.They all offer very good boats well suited FOR THEIR DESIGNED INTENT. Sailing on the Deleware River is perfectly within that ability. You would also be comfortable in L.I. Sound, the Chesapeake Bay, and even coastal cruising, as long as you keep an eye on the weather. It comes down to preferences. Hunter owners will tout Hunters; Catalina owners, Catalina, etc. Find out what the diferences between the three are and make your decision based on which of the three best fills your list of needs and desires. I won't get into the diferences here (which are rather minor). But, if you want more specific information ask owners of each boat what they like and dislike about their boat. And realize that the answer to that question will depend upon the persons experience with different boats as well as different sailing condidions. You can contact me at captainpat@prodigy.net if you wish.Good luck,Pat