Another sailor who moved to a power cruiser. Might be hard to imagine, but the cockpit of these boats can be more comfortable for stretching out than a sailboat. There is no steering pedestal in the middle of the cockpit to have to move around. Besides the built-in seating, there is room for any kind of camping-type lounge chair you desire.
The sunsets are the same. The adult beverages you toast to those sunsets are the same. The feeling of being at anchor is the same.
Like you, I was concerned about having an inside helm after years of steering a sailboat out where I could feel the breeze on my face. It took about 10 minutes to figure out the protected helm was more comfortable, allowing you to spend more time on the water. You'll only need your foulies when you get off the boat in nasty weather. You won't be sunburned or windburned - your face will thank you. All that "quiet" when sailing... no wind roar in your ears, unless you choose to open the window or a hatch. 😉
No grinding on a winch. Your hands will thank you, too.
It IS different. My wife and I found it to be better. Don't get me wrong - I still enjoy going for a sail once in a while... on someone else's boat. When we tack and all have to "move to the high side," it now seems odd. You won't miss that scramble, either.
What about those rare days when the conditions are just perfect for sailing... you know, those 3 days a year. When you have a sailboat, those days make you forget about the days where there was no wind... or too much wind... or pelting rain... or cold... or the wind was on your nose no matter what direction you had to go. You will find these boats "go to wind" in a wonderful way. Chilly? Turn on the heat. Rain? turn on the windshield wipers. Want to make a cup of hot chocolate while underway? Easy, and the person doing the galley work still gets a great view. And you can continue your conversation without yelling. Or having to pass stuff out the companionway before you come out.
Really, don't get me wrong. Sailing is great. Everyone should have the opportunity. I think it makes you understand wind and current better than those who start out with a powercruiser.
One last thing that was a concern to me when we made the move: what about our sailing friends? You will find them very interested in this option. Especially when they see how comfortable you are onboard. I bought a boat from Jeff Messmer before he was with Ranger Tugs; when I said to him, "What about our sailing friends?"
He said, "You'll make new friends." Turns out he was very correct.
And the relaxing onboard is every bit as good.
Good luck with the search, but approach it with the understanding that some things will be different. And different can be better.
Best wishes,
Jim B.
