Mr. Dashew…I am trying to get a little insight into the vessel that I have purchased. I have no offshore experience at all at this time and have only owned my boat for two years. As I live in Sidney, BC I do a lot of weekend outings through the Gulf and San Juans, not at all comparable even to the St. of Georgia. My question is this. The boat I have chosen is a Spencer 35,a sister ship to “Whisper”, Hal Roth’s boat. (Hull 29) (Mine is 31) It still has the old roller boom. (That will change) Everybody tells me what a wonderful boat I have for serious, inexpensive offshore cruising. Being that the Spencer is a local production boat from the old days (Mfg. Richmond, BC 1966) I am wondering if the local folks are more prejudiced than accurate in their positive statements to me. In spite of Mr. Roths adventures, is my Spencer a good offshore vessel? I know it is not like your vessels but it is affordable for me and I find it very easy to handle in spite of no lines aft. (I have to go forward to change my mind as well as sails.) I realize this question sounds very weak, but I plan on South Pacific adventurers in the next 3 to 5 years and due to no present experience, I have no reference to measure from. Thank you Sir. Regards, Ron
Hi Ron: The main issue is to get the best boat you can afford, and go cruising. The Spencer may not be as fast as many boats, but she should perform well for you with a good suit of sails. As you are just starting out, spend your time learning to sail the boat, in light airs and when it is blowing really hard. Practice anchoring under sail, sailing into and out of tight spots, and work on heaving to, using storm sails in different configurations. Getting up to speed on your seamanship will make for faster, more comfortable, and safer cruising–and it saves you a ton of money on fancy gear which you really don’t need. Concentrate your cruising budget on heavy ground tackle, a good suit of working sails, and good storm canvas. See you out there! Steve
Posted by Steve Dashew (November 30, 1999)
