oceanhombre
06-22-2007, 09:58 AM
Hello boatdesign world! I would like to solicit your ideas on what production sailing vessels are the best lightweight beach cruisers. My criteria are pretty simple:
1) Lightweight/Trailerable: Total towing weight less than 1500 pounds (that's the capacity of my Honda Element)
2) Shallow draft: Capable of exploring Florida Bay and Everglades coastal and inland waterways
3) Overnight Cruiser: Overnigth accomodations for 2 adults for week long expeditions
4) Comfort: Good ventilation as well as sun, mosquito and rain protection
5) Non-powered: Capable of being propelled without power or sail for short distances (rowed/sculled/pedaled/etc.)
6) Sailing Performance: The final discriminator!
The only two vessels I have found so far are the Norseboat 17.5 and the Sea Perl 21 (mono and trimaran). I considered the WindRider 17 and others but rejected them based on my desire to sleep on the boat and not beach camp.
I am attracted to a deployable tent structure but would consider a boom tent too (as long as it offers good protection from rain and mosquitoes) and would also consider a traditional cabin (if one could be had on a vessel that is still light enough).
Please give me your advice and opinions on all of the above.
thanx!........carey
1) Lightweight/Trailerable: Total towing weight less than 1500 pounds (that's the capacity of my Honda Element)
2) Shallow draft: Capable of exploring Florida Bay and Everglades coastal and inland waterways
3) Overnight Cruiser: Overnigth accomodations for 2 adults for week long expeditions
4) Comfort: Good ventilation as well as sun, mosquito and rain protection
5) Non-powered: Capable of being propelled without power or sail for short distances (rowed/sculled/pedaled/etc.)
6) Sailing Performance: The final discriminator!
The only two vessels I have found so far are the Norseboat 17.5 and the Sea Perl 21 (mono and trimaran). I considered the WindRider 17 and others but rejected them based on my desire to sleep on the boat and not beach camp.
I am attracted to a deployable tent structure but would consider a boom tent too (as long as it offers good protection from rain and mosquitoes) and would also consider a traditional cabin (if one could be had on a vessel that is still light enough).
Please give me your advice and opinions on all of the above.
thanx!........carey