Hopefully you have narrowed your search down to a few pretty ladies, unless of course you are a part of the more likely scenario and are reading this blog for the first time. If you are getting ready to visit one of these boats or just want to ask the owner some questions that will show him you know your stuff, then have a look at this material posted on SailNet. A couple experienced in offshore sailing provide information so you can ask those poignant questions. They cover the major aspects you need to be thinking about and watching for when purchasing a boat of this nature including steering gear, hull and deck construction, bottom paint, fittings, rigs, running rigging, and sails.
As you read through their suggestions you may have no clue what any of these terms mean. You just know they are really fun to say. There is no need to feel ignorant, just get educated. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive list of liks that will take you to pages explaining in depth each and every piece of the puzzle. And by puzzle I mean boat.
Now that you are educated, you will be much more informed and effective when going out to “kick the tires.” Now if you are still a rookie I recommend bringing an experienced sailor with you when you check one out. Not everyone has this privaledge but if you do you might as well captitalize on it. If not just do not make any quick decisions becuase there will always be another boat. These are obviously just basic tips for someone buying anything other than refrigerator magnets, but they especially apply to sailboat shopping. There is a reason people say the best day in a boat owners life is the day he/she sells it. These boat owners are on the verge of that day and you are ”ship” that is going to take them their so be careful.
