Steve: I am a novice sailor hoping to buy my first boat this spring. I will be lake sailing for now; however, I am contemplating a relocation to the Gulf Coast of Florida. I have been considering a new Hunter 260, primarily for weekending, and because the size seems manageable. My questions are, what size do you think is appropriate to learn basic sailing skills; and whether you think that I would be better off with an older and longer boat to start out with. I read in some of the FAQs that you recommend mid to late ’60’s and early ’70’s CCA and IOR designs. What boats specifically do you recommend? I am sure that I could get much more waterline in an older boat, than I will for what the H260 costs brand new. Any ideas? Thank you. David
Hi David: I’m not familiar with the Hunter you mentioned, but if you are just starting out, and really want to learn to sail, you will be better off in a smaller centerboard dinghy. You will find this much more responsive, and will know very quickly when you are doing something right–or wrong. I’d look for a boat with a local racing fleet. That is really the way to learn about sailing. Once you have the basics down in the centerboarder, then look for a keel boat–at least this is the approach we would take. Good Luck- Steve
Posted by Steve Dashew (November 30, 1999)
