age

[scross]

I think by asking your question on this forum you will be getting replies from a biased population sample. Yes, there are MANY Ranger Tug owners out there in their 70's and 80's. But those in this age group that have had to sell their boats due to health issues are probably no longer active here.
You are probably the best judge of how healthy and mentally sharp you expect to be in 5 years. Of course on one can predict the future. But if you think that in 5 years you expect to be active and relatively healthy, I say go for it!

 

[rt11002003]

79 is just around the corner; been boating since I could walk. Sold my last sailboat about a year ago, after almost 60 years of sailing. Just not physically up to single handing any more. Also gave up motorcycles a couple of years ago. For the past 10 years, approx.; I've also owned a trawler, or a Ranger tug. I have spinal problems dating back to the early 1960's which get worse every year. I adapt to my limitations, as does my wife. She still loves the beach and the surf. We had planned to be on the beach for a week, or so, starting last Saturday. m/b later this month, Nov. or Dec.

Today, I own a 2014 Ranger R21EC (my third), that I purchased last year when I sold the sailboat. It's a difficult boat for both my wife and I because it's a small boat and responds quickly to changes in the water conditions. We've decided to purchase a larger boat with more initial stability; and are currently negotiating for one. No one knows what tomorrow will bring. We'll use the new boat until we can't.

A career in the military; and, then another career afterward taught me the value of planning. However, the first thing I learned was (paraphrased): If you'd like to hear GOD laugh, make a plan. I take it to mean: make plans; but consider the alternatives. Live today, hope tomorrow meets your expectations.

 

[NorthernFocus]

If you're even asking others' opinions it seems like you have doubts yourself. I don't think it's really a question/decision that anyone else can help you with. Though we'll still all voice our opinions 😀

 

[MoonshadowV]

A friend just bought a new R-25. He is 92 with a slightly l younger wife. We’re in our 80s with a new R-25. We use it quite a bit, too. Our boat before this was a 40-foot sailboat.

 

[capnlmk]

Health
Mental sharpness
Agility / strength
Experience with boats of a similar size / complexity
Health again
Be honest with yourself
Charter a boat of similar size / complexity and see how you do.

I'm 70. Been a sailor for 50 years, a tugboater for three. I really enjoy my R25SC, but I am also glad to have younger people cruise with me.

Mark Twain said something like, "You are more likely to regret more the things you didn't do than the things you did do." Factor that in.

Fair winds and following seas.