Fisher has a good rep, but five people in 34' is a lot. Extended
cruising with five really means three cabins -- you don't want to have
someone sleeping in the main saloon on an extended cruise,
particularly if the weather isn't perfect.

The best thing you can do for comfort is go bigger -- some people will
argue that a bigger boat is harder to handle, but within limits (maybe
seventy feet or so) I would say that bigger is easier. You have a
more stable platform under you and things happen more slowly. Single
handing is no problem except for docking and that can be dealt with by
practice, calling ahead on the VHF, and being patient.

Look for around 1-2 horsepower per thousand pounds of weight. You'll
find that on many boats that aren't labelled motorsailors. It's hard
to use much more in a displacement hull. Put on a three bladed
MaxProp. They're not cheap, but it's the single most important thing
you can do to make the boat perform well under power and sail.

If you're serious about that size, you might look at Westsail. They
earn their nickname (Wetsnail), but they're well built, tough boats.

Jim Woodward
www.mvfintry.com

"Bruce Woodburn" wrote in message ...
I live on the south coast of British Columbia and I'm looking for a boat to
cruise the upper coast, 'Charlottes and Alaska.

I would like a pilothouse ketch or cutter rig with enough power to motor
into a decent sea. I'd like accommodation for 2 for extended cruising with
room for 3 guests. Ability to single-hand would be a big asset. Comfort and
safety is valued over speed and looks. Quality is appreciated and I realize
it comes with a price tag.

The Fisher 30 and 34 seem to fit the bill, but I would welcome advice and
recommendations on other boats.

Any useful websites?

Thanks in advance

Bruce