John H wrote:
The latest issue of Chesapeake Bay magazine shows the subject trawler,
a 2004, for $179000 (actually $149000, but that's an error). On the
preceding page is a 1990 Grand Banks 36' Classic, for $229000. Both
have single diesel engines, the GB has a 210 hp Caterpillar, and the
Mariner has a 165 Perkins, upgradeable to a 220 Cummins for another
$6000.

Now, why such a big difference in the cost of these boats? How much
would a new Grand Banks cost, and is it worth the difference?

IMHO, no. We looked a dozen or so Grand Banks trawlers from the mid
1970s on up to early 1990s, and to my close inspection they revealed no
consistent superiority (other than slightly fancier joinerwork) to most
other Taiwan built trawlers. It's all in the reputation, built up (again
IMHO) by pervasive advertising.

There are some trawlers that are worse than others, but unlike sailboats
there does not seem to be a few standout "brands" such as sailboats have
in Swan, Hallberg-Rassy, Morris, Oyster. There are some highly touted
boats, but if you look at the nuts & bolts they are OK but not great...
given the prices, I found it very disappointing.

John, if you get serious about shopping for trawlers, give me a shout. I
still have a thick folder of notes.

Fair Skies
Doug King