Little Boat, Big Dreams

Now, only have Bristol 24 -- Sanderling.

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Microcruisers, general thoughts�

15 November 2008
Going well into a our second year with Angles Wings, we probably haven't learned anything that other microcruiser families don't already know. But as general observation, we've noticed that what one gains in reduced maintenance, smaller outlay and ease of handling must be given-up to some degree in how much space there is to move around, modest carrying capacity and the intangibles of how it "presents" at the dock.

A few things we have found awkward concerning our little Bristol, which is truly cozy with two aboard; however, 3-4 must be family or exceptionally good friends.
� Any "stuff" must be stowed properly when not in use, or Wings looks like a trash-dump quickly.
� Dark colors seem to close in things.
� Good ventilation is hugely important in such closed space.
� One must be careful how much is brought aboard for a weekend - storage is critical.
Wings smallish (slightly less than 6-foot) cockpit is really only comfortable for 2-3.
� Deck space is modest, although fairly stable underfoot - but the lee deck tricky in a fresh breeze.
� We have very limited ability to run today's many technogadgets - everything runs on batteries for now.
� Hard to work on a small rehab projects without affecting the entire cabin -- better to take them off the boat.
� Trash must be bagged and out of sight immediately.

Some of the many pluses:
� Property taxes are payable out of pocket change.
� Small successful refurbishments can lift our spirits exponentially.
� With thought, it is fine to substitute locally available wood for teak and mahogany.
� Heavy D/L ratios don't accelerate quickly, but the high inertia makes tacking easy.
� Painting the hull takes only a few enjoyable hours work per coat.
� The whole boat costs less than the working jib on many bigger vessels.
� Standing headroom is possible for those 6' or under.
� Will sail over the same horizons and any other boat
� 2nd-hand accessories fit right in and leave plenty of $$$ left over.
� For her size, Wings motion is very dignified and quite composed.
� Slack bilges pound very little even beating into 20kt winds -- occassional splash, but no banging.
� Fifty percent ballast ratio stands up well and seldom heels much over 20-25 deg.
� Running aground holds minimal terror.
� Some projects are bigger than others, but very little on Wings is complicated.
� Everyone is our friend - who won't chat with folks on the little black boat.
� Handholds are never far away.

Whether one feels the dividing line between microcruisers and normal boats is 15 feet or 45 feet, vessels above or below the line will have certain dissimilar capabilities - other factors being equal. Nonetheless, both have their advantages, and properly equipped can be fun and seaworthy.
Comments
Vessel Name: Sanderling
Vessel Make/Model: Bristol-24
Hailing Port: Colonial Beach, Virginia, USA
About:
C [...]
Extra: The skipper went out and found another Bristol 24 -- this one, Sanderling, is mechanically in better shape than Angels Wings, with newer rigging and motor, but still a small basic boat with no pretentions about high-society.