[Rhodes22-list] 27 foot crusiers (my thoughts)

[Dan B]

I'd like to ad some thoughts as well, or maybe thought starters.
 
I'm one of the guys that has frequently goaded Stan (and Elton too) about a larger Rhodes.  So I am part of the market for this boat. IMHO, one has to go to a current 28ft-30ft boat to get the cockpit accommodation's of a Rhodes 22 and an interior that doesn't seem inferior to what we have in our 22 footers. Certainly the below deck accommodations of the new 25-27ft offerings from the big guys seem cheap and spartan compared to our Rhodes. 
 
 
So, if the 27 gets to keep the cockpit as is, and Stan can work his magic on the interior, as he has in the past, this boat may very well cannibalize potential buyers of 30-32 foot boats.  After all, the savings do go beyond just the price of the boat, lines, dock fees, winter storage, etc.  A boat that might sell for $60 something that can do the job of one going for 90 or more, will very likely be able to sell itself.
 
For this to be a success, hard questions need to be asked, and answered; due diligence needs to be applied. Enthusiasm needs to be spread, and brainstorming needs to be encouraged, so that the best ideas get cost effectively incorporated... just like in the Rhodes 22.  
 
 
Dan B 



----- Original Message ----
From: Richard Smith <sailnut at att.net>
To: The Rhodes 22 mail list <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 15, 2007 11:29:30 AM
Subject: [Rhodes22-list] 27 foot crusiers (my thoughts)


In my judgment a 27 foot yacht represents the smallest size in which a
couple can cruise (near shore)  in reasonable comfort for a couple of weeks.

Outside of that usage I can't think of any particular reason to spend a lot
of money for the boat, maintence and dockage.  You always want the smallest
boat which will fill your requirements.

In mass produced boats the Catalina 27 is a legend and is supported a very
active group of owners.

The Cape Dory 27 is a wonderful full keel boat built to high standards but
affordable

In the non mass-produced boats the North Sea 27 is masterpiece of design and
function and can go just about anywhere in safety and reasonable comfort.
Albeit at a mind boggling price.

However, If you do not have access to a largish body of water a 27 foot
sailing cruiser is overkill!

Richard Smith

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