How big of waves

[justchange]

Can a 34' cabin cruiser safely handle?

I found this http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150402524582&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT


I think it'd be fun to buy it, make sure it's safe, then drive it from TX to Fl across the Gulf.

I'm not to sure about the potential 8-16 ft waves though.


Not to worry, I'm sure this is another thing I'll never accomplish

 

[noworries79]

Re: How big of waves

It's not how big, but how choppy, swell period, current wind, wind forecast and the Captain's experience. You need to have confidence in your engines, generators, back-up radios and maybe even a satellite phone for that kind of trip. A 34' seems kinda small for a trip like that, especially when the swell gets kicked up. You could still have plenty of fun on shorter trips. 16' waves are small compared to what mother nature can throw at you on open water. Keep us posted on what you decide.

 

[justchange]

Re: How big of waves

It's not how big, but how choppy, swell period, current wind, wind forecast and the Captain's experience. You need to have confidence in your engines, generators, back-up radios and maybe even a satellite phone for that kind of trip. A 34' seems kinda small for a trip like that, especially when the swell gets kicked up. You could still have plenty of fun on shorter trips. 16' waves are small compared to what mother nature can throw at you on open water. Keep us posted on what you decide.

Thanks for the answer. I was looking on wunderground and they have marine info on there. The size of some of those waves make tall buildings seem small. Also been looking at advice for driving a boat in those waters.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: How big of waves

the trick would be to run the coast and find a safe harbor when the weather kicks up.... would cost more and take longer but would be safer

 

[DANZIG]

Re: How big of waves

Pawshaw!! You will never make any good stories by being "safe".

You think the boat is ready, your skills are up to it,,,,and your nads big???,, then go for it!!

We are all dead in the long run. The only difference is how.

Some folks choose to die on their couch. How boring....

LOL!!!!!

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: How big of waves

"no survivors? well then where do the stories come from I wonder?"
cpt. Jack Sparrow

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: How big of waves

If it's gonna happen it's gonna happen out there Capt Ron.


I would be scared to make that crossing after a little testing and getting used to the boat.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: How big of waves

that is a lot of $$ for a 38 y/o boat, even with new power. have it surveyed from stem to stern. especially electrical. it also does not say what outdrives. which i think that boat would be an straight inboard.

 

[noworries79]

Re: How big of waves

If it's gonna happen it's gonna happen out there Capt Ron.

"Besides, If we get lost we can always stop and ask for directions." Capt. Ron

I couldn't resist! LOL

 

[Chris1956]

Re: How big of waves

Wave size is not the only factor of importance. Wave period and wave steepness are probably as important. For example, if the period between the large waves is long, the climb up to the top of them will be gentle, and so will be the ride. If the waves are close together, the climb is rapid, and the ride rough. The same is true for wave steepness.

 

[triumphrick]

Re: How big of waves

One "rule of thumb" I have heard is 10' of boat for every foot of wave....

And that's just to have a comfortable sail and not get in over your head.

My 23' has been caught in 5' seas and it was a little hairy...but fun! We only had guys aboard that day. Seems like the gals start yelling anytime the hull pounds...

 

[rbh]

Re: How big of waves

Just seeing that sheet of unfinnished plywood behind the motors sort of put me off from doing it in that boat.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: How big of waves

One day my wife and I were out in my speedboat. It was very unusual conditions because the bay had bright sunshine, low/no wind and large waves with a long period. As we sped along at 50MPH we would ride up the crest and down thru the troughs. When in the trough, we could not see anything but water on all sides. I will guess the waves were 4-5 feet, but the ride was so smooth that when I looked at the passenger seat, my wife had reclined it and was sunbathing topless.

It ain't the size of the wave, but how you ride 'em!

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: How big of waves

It ain't the size of the wave, but how you ride 'em!

Topless

 

[INJUN]

Re: How big of waves

50 mph and can't see nothing but water when in the trough? Humm.

justchange:
Try the boater's bible: Chapmans. There are other books but that's the one I recommend.

Staying close to the coast is a good alternative versus going straight across, especially if you are prepared with charts, port fo calls, etc.

IMO

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: How big of waves

One day my wife and I were out in my speedboat. It was very unusual conditions because the bay had bright sunshine, low/no wind and large waves with a long period. As we sped along at 50MPH we would ride up the crest and down thru the troughs. When in the trough, we could not see anything but water on all sides. I will guess the waves were 4-5 feet, but the ride was so smooth that when I looked at the passenger seat, my wife had reclined it and was sunbathing topless.

It ain't the size of the wave, but how you ride 'em!

 

[paulspaddle]

Re: How big of waves

Your smokin' Smoke....nice one!!

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: How big of waves

Sorry I really didn't look over the pics, I really just checked out the hull shape etc.

What is the deal with that plywood?

Have you checked out the boat or just looking and thinking?

And I never heard of star power anybody else?

 

[justchange]

Re: How big of waves

I haven't found who actually markets the Star Power engines. I have found they are a Ford Deisel which would make them made by International.

I've found that same boat at a Dealer in NC listed for $26,900. I've also found at least one other that's much nicer that sold for $13,000. [Gas power]

Not sure how much it cost to convert it to diesel but not $20,000 worth.

I haven't seen it in person. I've been told by the lister that the prop shafts would need repacking and was last in the water about 8 years ago. Nothing about the transmissions. Yes, it is a straight inboard.

I had planned on taking it to a place and having it gone thru to make sure of it's seaworthyness.

After all, I wouldn't want it to sink to close to shore.

 

[Northern Lights]

Re: How big of waves

Make purchase subject to survey.