"Matt O'Toole" wrote in message
...
Have a look at one of my favorites -- the Kelly-Peterson 44:


i would go to sea in one of those for sure - none in australia though mate
and rarely come up

..yachtworld.com/core/listing/pl_boat_full_detail.jsp?slim=quick&boat_id=1119587 &units=Feet&currency=AUD&access=Public&listing_id= 1707&url=


If you're OK with a small boat, try a Bristol Channel Cutter:

i have set my minimum length at 38 feet - it is just more comfortable both
solo and with guests


Whatever your budget is, don't forget to add *a lot* over the cost of the
boat
for fitting out, tweaking, and provisioning.

yeh it can be expensive - definately pays to shop around for the best fitted
boat
i use to ride motorcycles and the manufactures treat their customers in a
similar way - they think you have lots of $$$$'s


Getting back to your original question, there's no "best" construction.
There
are good and bad boats made from every material and technique. Go with a
proven
design and make. Dealing with a known quantity is safer, easier, cheaper
to get
stuff for, and you'll have better resale value when you're done. In that
sense
a Beneteau might not be a bad choice. The Oceanis models seem to be a bit
heavier, more displacement for all your stuff and tankage.

Finally, if you want a fixer-upper, I bet there are plenty in Florida
these days!


not for blue water stuff - over and out

i could do something with this though - young 43

yachtworld.com/core/listing/pl_boat_full_detail.jsp?slim=quick&boat_id=1279924 &units=Feet&currency=AUD&access=Public&listing_id= 74463&url=

thanks for the info

david