I was wondering if anyone could tell me if this odd boat forsale near me is seaworthy

It WEST system , 33ft , has a Cylinder yanmar engine and is cutter rigged, ultimately I'd like to sail from onOntar to Newfoundland, the price is definitely right can this boat do it or will it flip over and sink as soon as I leave the dock ? Thanks

 

Are you able to find out the designer and model?
If they are selling they should be able to tell you.

 

It say it's a Jay Benford design custom build I found some similar boats but nothing exactly the same

 

Looks like it might be Jay Benford's 30' cutter Arrt…

 

I know it's cutter rigged

 

Suggest contacting Benford to help in identifying the model. Then, as with any boat purchase, get a survey done by a professional surveyor in your area. It looks seaworthy from the pictures, but you will need a professional survey done to reveal any problems including workmanship, mechanical, electrical, engine, rigging, etc. etc.

Never buy a boat without a survey. Only hire someone from the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors.

A List of Every Marine Surveyor in Ontario http://www.pcmarinesurveys.com/Every%20Marine%20Surveyor%20In%20Ontario.htm

 

If this boat has
• displacement-to-length ratio between 200~300,
• sail-to-displacement ratio between 15~16,
• ballast-to-displacement ratio between 40% ~ 50%
then I would say it suits my understanding of "seaworthiness" and I would buy this boat based on physical condition, equipment, sails, rigging, price, etc.
Based on my understanding it is "a lead sled," because most likely it would not have those parameters.
JMHO

 

This is really interesting.

Would you expound a little?

Thanks.

 

Have it surveyed or take it out for a spin.
Or both.
That'll tell you if it'll "flip over and sink as soon as I leave the dock".

The owner should pay for half the survey and then get to keep it, if you don't buy the boat.

 

Disp./Length defines how "heavy" the vessel is and it affects motion comfort among other things.
Sail Area/Disp. mostly would help to predict and understand light wind performance.
Ballast/Disp. helps to keep the hull upright in rough seas and high winds.
Just to consider that the total displacement must also accommodate useful payload such as crew, supplies, equipment, fuel, spare parts and repair materials, etc.
Also if this vessel is made out of plywood (not steel/aluminium), as flat surfaces may indicate, beware of hull problems as it appears to be rather old boat.
Another thing to consider among other things, if you are going "all the way blue water," coastal cruising, gunkholing or beaching.
JMHO

 

Dont do it!