I find it interesting that there are really so few good designs out
there for "spirited" family sailing. Consider my not-so-demanding
requirements:


1) 32-36 foot vessel
2) Enclosed aft cabin
3) SA/D suitable for light air work..at least 17 or 18
4) PHRF below 150 or better
5) Reasonable build quality.
6) Price around 70K or less.


Now...we have a few Beneteau first series, a few Kirie Elites, an
Express 35....most of which are tough to find in good shape. A new C&C
99 would be perfect, but I can't justify another 50-60K for a boat that

is only used half the year. I see more European designs, like the
Jeanneau and Kirie/Feelings that make a lot more sense and offer more
speed with better accomodation for a family, but they're rarely found
here.
Well...we're looking at the Beneteau 35s5 next week, then looking at a
Sabre 34 and the Sabre 32 tri cabin-more traditional boats though
slower than the 35s5 or Kirie. I think there's a LOT of room for
improvement in boat design these days...and I'm sorry to say that most
of the designs of previous years show little imagination.
Look at this boat. It's design may not be your cup of tea (looks like a

spaceship), but it sails faster than most comparable C&Cs, Sabres or
Tartans of the same vintage and size and has a better layout. Like I
said, our sailboat industry lacks imaagination, though I'm fond of the
new C&Cs.
http://www.yachtsnet.co.uk/boats/s70505/s70505.htm

I know a C&C 35 III or Sabre 34 are good boats, but we'd like something

with a bit more spunk, especially for the LIS light airs. Thoughts on
this?


Robert B
NY