"aroostifer" wrote in message
oups.com...
I'm interested in a Choate 41 (2 ton IOR) for sale in the Bay Area. My
interest is NOT in racing but rather in long-distance cruising.

Interested in the seaworthiness of these designs. It seems some say
they can be squirrely to steer downwind, but others say that applies
mostly to racing situations where the boats being driving hard. Have
heard all the Fastnet stories, but this boat is post-Fastnet vintage
(very early eighties I believe, but may be very late seventies.)

Former owner did the Baja HAHA and Bash. My immediate crusing plans
would be SF Bay, Mexico, Hawaii, and eventually the wild blue yonder.
Would love to circumnavigate the Pacific.

Thoughts, opinions, slander, or wild conjecture about the suitability
of such a boat for bluewater cruising?

Thanks,

- Ari

I looked at that boat also. I'm not that familiar with the Choate, but it
seemed quite solid. It didn't seem very comfortable below, but I suppose
that's fixable. I recall that there were problems with water damage of cabin
sole... some kind of water damage, and it would be wise to figure out why.
Also, the owner (nice guy) told me that the cracks in the portlights seem to
keep coming back. Sure seems like it could be due to excessive flexing.
Maybe that's minor and expected or not. Damn big wheel. Nice hardware.. nice
looking standing rigging. My biggest complaint was the chopped up interior.

If you want to chat, drop me an email.

--
"j" ganz @@
www.sailnow.com