looking to buy a 1967 Cal30

[Bobby Cen ters]

currently own a Macgregor 26 swing keel.  I have found a Cal 30, the previous owner has restored her, engine runs great, new cushions, just pulled over the winter and the bottom done, topsides are being painted as we speak.

 

My concerns are driving her around the marina, tons larger and heavier than the Mac, I always had the outboard to help turn her as well.  5' keel instead of 14" if needed.  Wonder how much more time I'll need to anchor out and such...On a freshwater lake with 1,200 sq miles of shoreline, perfect for gunkholing and usually a good breeze.

 

Thoughts?  Ideas?? observations? 

 

Many thanks in advance. 

 

Bobby

[Kevin Oelschlager]

Hi Bobby,
Your McGregor offers you a lot of "special" options that most other boats can not.
You did not even mention that you can put your boat on a trailer and go anywhere!

On the other hand; the Cal will Sail !
She will stand up to almost anything and point very well.
I have a Cal-31 and sail on a man made lake (Lake Mead) where the shore line is shallow in some areas and steep in others. I have spent many a night nosed up to the bank

My Cal-31 turns like a "big boat" and I must plan ahead. a Catalina can turn on her keel but I can out point them. Also, when moving around on a Cal-30 you will find that she does not move under your feet as much with that 3000# keel.

There is always a trade off when buying a boat.
Pick what you need and then what you want

Hope my $.02 was helpful

Kevin O
"Kona"
Ca;-31
Las Vegas

[Bobby Cen ters]

I truly appreciate the comments. We are looking for headroom down below, real storage space etc. We have a freshwater lake with 1,200 miles of shoreline, perfect for gunkholing and we stay on int most weekends in the summer and tons in spring and fall.

A little concerned bout the gas inboard but will work around it. Have been told by more than a few to PLAN AHEAD to stop....

thanks, keep those tips a'comin

bobby

[Solo Voyager]

Lapworth Plastic Classic is great boat. One of the best around. Sailed mine across the Pac from Jack London, Oakland. Now based in Bali. Plan to make it around May 20th 2012 via Buenos Aires. Wish me luck!!!