[Sunroof]

Daddle, keep shopping around. Many dealers in the southeast (check out SNUG HARBOR BOATS in Buford, GA - brokerage listing). What lake are you on in Mississippi? Stick with a freshwater boat to avoid corrosion issues. Hauling a boat out for a SURVEY (not so much called a PPI) is not that costly considering the overall investment. You have to watch for osmotic blistering as this condition in older boats is more prevalent in freshwater. The Atomic Four is a great engine, but its gas and the more modern diesel is preferred. Over the long haul your always better off getting the best boat for the money, but condition is obviously very critical as it can cost lots of money for maintenance, repair and upkeep. The key here in buying a sailboat is the SURVEY. I do not know how many SURVEYORS are in Mississippi, but do your due diligence and research for a good reputable SURVEYOR and keep emotions in check! That C&C might look pretty in the water but a 1974 model? New sails, standing and running rigging, a failing Atomic Four, beat interior, etc, etc, etc, can be costly for you in the long run.

Just remember the old saying, "the best days of boat ownership is the day you buy it and the day you sell it"!

You decided to be a sailor and that decision you will never regret, but tread lightly when it comes to buying a used sailboat. Take your time here and look around. Its not costly to haul a boat from Georgia or other surrounding states.

I speak from 50 years of sailing experience and boat ownership

Helsen 22
Herreshoff Friendship Sloop
Columbia T23
Catalina 25 (2)
Hunter 25
Coronado 35
Catalina 30

Bob