On 2008-08-17 22:17:36 -0400, "txmxrider" said:

By appearances alone, the 15' West Wight Potter seems to have pretty
much everything we require and maybe even room for a portapotty for the
Admiral. They also rate high in the "cute" factor, which also appeals
to the Admiral. Anyone here familiar with these boats? I appreciate
your opinions both pro and con. For reference we would be sailing
almost exclusively on inland lakes in Texas with maybe an occasional
trip to the coast once we get some experience and if the boat is
capable of sailing in protected bays.

The WWP is an awfully cute boat, and a particularly appealing one for a
few reasons.

But I really recommend walking the docks and visiting the possible
boats in or near the target outlay for your specific purpose(s),

Small and mid-size boats are selling very cheaply these days as no one
wants a boat under 40' any more, and even the beginner's market has
dried up. A season or two ago, we helped sell a sistership at or below
$3.5k. I surveyed the boat and it was one I wouldn't hesitate to take
to the Caribbean for months or years at a time, though I'd have been
conservative on the initial sea trials, staying close enough to
"civilization" to limp in if something I hadn't inspected failed.

Don't get married to any particular boat until you've satisfied
yourself that it will adequately perform for the duties you'd like to
perform in the next 5-7 years. If you are only going to trail, that's
one audience. If you really want to go further, that's an entirely
different one.

--
Jere Lull
Xan-à-Deux -- Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD
Xan's pages: http://web.mac.com/jerelull/iWeb/Xan/
Our BVI trips & tips: http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/