We drove through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. Seven days on the road, including Christmas day in New Orleans.
Now we’re settled into our apartment in Fort Lauderdale – home base for boat buying.
What we want:
Used Catamaran, ten to thirty years old.
Price range: $150K to $250K. Cash payment.
The best boat will be setup for single-handed operation some of the time.
Probably USA flag.
Best available now in Florida
Planned use: liveaboard cruising in the Caribbean, senior couple with a crew member. Family visits.
Possible future blue water crossings.
We anchor out a lot, minimum time on-the-dock
Equipment required:
three or four cabins
two heads (or more)
two very reliable diesel engines
jib (probably roller furling)
main (stack best)
hull, steering, standing rigging, running rigging in very good to excellent shape
substantial ground tackle with electric winch, at least two big anchors
solid dinghy with gas outboard engine
nice galley – we cook a lot
best to have up-to-date electronics.
reliable toilets and holding tank
Equipment nice to have
watermaker
solar panels
lifeboat
storm sails
storm tackle (drogue, chute, etc.)
On the Water 