While Neal's critique is a bit harsh, I must admit I was thinking many
of the same thoughts as I read your post.

But, as a catamaran owner, I feel I must add a few comments ...

A 60 foot catamaran is a Monster! This boat was intended to be handled
by a professional crew, not a retired couple. All of the systems will
need power assist, and if there's a problem, you'll be unable to raise
sail or hoist an anchor. Further, with a beam of 31 feet there is
virtually no place to keep it. My 18 foot beam is modest, and I have
trouble finding a berth. Maneuvering a boat like that without deckhands
is impossible, because you have no visibility at the corners. You'll
end up putting video cameras in just to get into a fuel dock!

There's no reason why a cat has to be over 35 to 45 feet to be seaworthy
and comfortable. Numerous long distance passages and circumnavigations
have been done by a variety of mid sized cats, like a Prout 37. Larger
cats, like a PDQ 44 or Manta provide a huge amount of space and can
still be handled easy.

The other issue Neal covered fairly well - why would you consider
investing a million bucks when you have virtually no experience in ocean
sailing? You can buy a very serviceable coastal cruiser for $100K, give
or take, and learn the skills with much smaller risk. If you decide to
move up in a year or so, you can sell it for close to what you paid, and
the knowledge gained will save you a fortune on the next boat.


Good luck on whatever you do, and keep us posted.

Jeff www.sv-loki.com