To much weight for a Venture 17?

[2 Sails 2 the Wind]

Just gstting back into sailing after a long hiatus. Much heavier now then when we used to sail. This weekend we are going to be looking at a Venture 17 as a possible purchase. But I've been researching the boat, I found out that it's displacement is 800 lbs. My total crew including myself weighs in at 530 lbs. Research I've done discovered that the swing keel on this model is 275 lbs. That totals 805 lbs. But then there is the weight of the boat as well which wouldn't surprise me to be 400 or 500 lbs. Bringing the total up to about 1200 or 1300 lbs. Which is well over the 800 lb displacement.

We would sure appreciate a knowledgeable opinion or 3 or 5 or 7.

Thank you.

Have a Great Day,
Jim

 

[JoelHoover]

Hey Jim,

Why a 17 footer? Are you looking for a small daysailor or are you limited by price and availability in your area?

A 21-25ft Mac will hold you fine. Plenty of keel ballast and cockpit room. Where is Bloomington?

 

[MrMikey64]

I'd have to agree with Joel - why such a small boat? You didn't mention where Bloomington is, and I'm sure there are a number of them. If you are referring to Bloomington, IN, I noticed a beautiful Mac 26 over in Nabb (on Craigslist: http://louisville.craigslist.org/boa/1333094527.html). The guy is asking $2800, but perhaps you can talk him down - says in the ad his first deal fell through, so perhaps he is motivated.
There may be others near your area, on Craigslist or other listings. Be sure to check those out as well if you're seriously in the market.