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Will Gerstmyer's avatar

Btw, I’m looking to reduce my ocean passages and sail more locally in the Bay of Maine. So I want more [upwind] performance and less size than my Brewer 12.8 and am willing to give up weight and sea kindliness. But I still want great construction in case I have to use my boat as an escape pod from … evil. I’m thinking Sabre 28 but I’m sure you guys have many more ideas than I. Thanks, Will

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Well, big fans of Brewer's boats - in all shapes and sizes. But, alas, if you're going to sail Maine waters, you might as well sail a Maine-built boat. Sabres are awesome and 28s regularly pop onto the market. If you need a little more space, a 30 or 34 would do nicely!

Will Gerstmyer's avatar

Guys! You can’t write for half your blog about a book, and post a great quote from it, without giving credit to the authors! TIA, keep up the good work, Will

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Dang it! I knew I forgot something! I did reference/cite the work in my previous post, but here it is again for those looking for it: HOW TO BUY A SAILBOAT, by Hewitt Schlereth, published in 1985. Long out of print.

Alan kew's avatar

Your article I mean. So too boat comparisons

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Thanks Captain!

Mark Hanson's avatar

Would you say there is a major sailing difference between the Pearson 35 and the 10M? They seem to be pretty similar.

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Both solid boats!

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Great question. A lot depends on your intended use. If you’re thinking of cruising, the P35 would be potentially more comfortable and have that shallow draft with the board up. If you intend on racing, the 10M is about 30 seconds faster per NM. The 10M is the standard fin keel/spade rudder with significantly less displacement.

Mark Hanson's avatar

Ahh ok, I am going to go look at both of those models tomorrow as potential cruisers to take down to FL and the Bahamas and live aboard.

The BoatFools Report's avatar

Just be sure to have the centerboard/pennant/pin checked on the P35. If it’s been updated/replaced, that would be ideal. Huge cockpit on the P35, so if there is a dodger/bimini and awning, it will be great additional living space. Draws less than 4 feet with that board up so great for the waters you’re intending to sail! The P35, due to its displacement and long keel, will generally be more comfortable in a sea state than the 10M. Lastly, the rudder on the P35 is more protected than the 10M’s - in the event you do bump the bottom. My two cents!

The BoatFools Report's avatar

As noted by a kind reader, I forgot to cite the source book in this newsletter. It is: HOW TO BUY A SAILBOAT, by Hewitt Schlereth, published in 1985 by W.W. Norton. In my previous newsletter, I posted an image of the cover and link to a used copy of it. Fun book! And I apologize for the grammatical error in the caption below the Alberg. Clearly, I am distracted by the looming deadline of our launch on Monday!

Will Gerstmyer's avatar

(Sorry I’m off topic here). Any other boats come to mind? Maybe under appreciated, or not the typical response (thus cheaper)? I love the Contessa 26 but can’t see myself without head room; love the Seawind 30 but doubt it moves along in light winds… any of the pocket cruisers or Compacs appeal to you? TIA

The BoatFools Report's avatar

The Contessa would be tight, although I love their look. Allied’s are sweet. And there are some Luders 33s kicking around. A lot of options up here. Cape Dory 28s or 30s would be ideal too. If you’re looking for comfort and value, the Cape Dorys are hard to beat.

Alan kew's avatar

Well. Said “Captain T”