#34. Choosing the Ideal Cruising Yacht

@Barefoot Doctors Sailing - Catch up with our story 3 weeks after our Leopard 50 burnt to the bottom of the ocean and now we are working to decide what we are going to do with our lives....
Are we going to sail again?
If we are, what boat is the ideal long distance cruising boat?
Learn the steps in the process and the sort of decisions you need to make for yourself. At the end of the day, we all make different choices from each other due to personal preference - no answer is correct for everyone so anyone TELLING YOU what to do is WRONG!
Here we go through the choices that you will need to consider in the process of choosing a boat and we share some important steps to avoid you making the wrong choice for yourself!
Binge watch and come barefoot with us as we travel and explore the planet, mostly from the water but sometimes through the minds of others as we provide aid and support where needed through the amazing TUFMINDS solutions!
The free TUFMINDS program is released as a smartphone program under the Exqisit Life Foundation Charity, a registered not for profit and requires financial support to fund the free program. TUFMINDS saves lives by intervening at the point of suicide and pulling everyone to higher levels of mental resilience, wellbeing and functioning. it also creates better attitudes, resilience and coping - all very important for sailors facing difficult situations at sea.
@Barefoot Doctors Sailing
Donations to the charity to support Suicide Prevention with the free TUFMINDS program can be made at:
shoutforgood.com/charities/ex...
For more info:
www.TUFMINDS.com
www.barefootdoctorssailing.com.au
TUFMINDS app - in App Stores

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks to everyone for their support and kindness. As regular viewers would know, we share our positive mindset processes for free around the world so the overwhelming response from you all is such a nice reflection of how wonderful our world is becoming! John and Eli (PS Nasty and derogatory comments will be deleted - no offence to be taken, just not consistent with our principles.)

[@scarletbegonias2359]

I admire how you genuinely listen to one another and value each others viewpoints.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

One of the keys to a good relationship - ask why they think a certain way before telling them they are wrong because then you find out the other side to the discussion (as it is not an argument)!

[@edfrawley4356]

One thing you didn't mention which to a non sailor like myself is obvious, is that the front cockpit allows for a totally safe walkthrough to everything you might need to access on the bow. I have watched people on other boats have to navigate a sometimes very narrow gunnel to get from the stern to the bow area in order to access a jib or anchor chain or a shroud. Its good to see you back in high spirits after the loss of your boat. You are doing a service with your positive attitude.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Ed, and yes that is right about the the walkthrough and glad you are enjoying the rough part of the journey with us!

[@firstdaywithnewbrain2504]

You two are such beautiful people. I hate the fact that I found your channel during the worst time possible. Your video came up as a suggestion to watch so my first experience with you was watching your boat burn. I just wanted to reach out to you and express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I’ve since gone back and watched most of your other videos. I’m currently watching #9 now and just had an overwhelming feeling to reach out to you both. Your positive attitude through this is a lesson for all. I hope you are able to get another cat and are able to chase your dreams once again. She was an absolutely beautiful boat and your smiles while videoing we’re infectious. Cheers.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers so much for your kind words, we are really glad you found us now and we love that you are getting up to speed with the journey. We took a hit but are now excited for future as it unfolds. Thanks for coming along with us!

[@firstdaywithnewbrain2504]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 just throwing this out there. Have you heard of “Sailing Dauntless” channel? They’ve recently took possession of a 2021 Leopard 50 and are refitted it because the previous owners ran aground with it. Maybe you make a deal with them and that way y’all wouldn’t have to wait 2 years to get another one for the factory.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

@@firstdaywithnewbrain2504 Yes I have seen their collection of the L50 and it filled me with the same horror as I watched my boat burn. The owners of that boat would have gone through exactly the same pain as us, I am sure... However, they will probably take a year to refit the boat and we want to get going sooner and not have the problems that could occur with a sunken boat - water gets everywhere and corrosion occurs in funny places...

[@patriotpam2624]

"A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor" Franklin D. Roosevelt -- I just like this quote and made me think of how much better you both will come out on the other side of this! Truly looking forward to following your continued journey! Hugs from California

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers for your support !

[@liveaboardcruisers654]

It's inspiring you can bring your audience along with you on your tumultuous journey. Thank you! We appreciate the message that every one needs to make choices that fit their particular situation. We absolutely love the comfort and safety of our Antares 44, yet can appreciate it's not right for everyone. Can't wait to hear which Leopard model you go with, and hopefully share anchor with you some day. In the meantime, we'll remain fans from a distance. :)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Friends! ❤️

[@tom080955]

john, Eli....you boat shopping?! awesome guys!! its part of the healing. video 30 was something that touched everybody whose has been "with you". as for stress, you guys aced this dead easy. the ocean moves, our bodies aren't accustomed to any of that, your trust in the equipment and your choice of boat and doing homework as you did last year you have a great opportunity here on this journey to get what worked on the cat and what didn't. the experiences sailing gives you two, showed us that you guys are so happy traveling. the doctor work you freely provide for other boaters is very very important. skin care has huge issues, all I see is bare skins and little shade. Im Scottish and moving to Canada from a barely sunny climate, to one that caused me to peel sunburnt skin off in sheets in my youth, and now going to my condo in Mexico, im like you, fully covered and sunscreen 50 or better...im woke as I hear them say. both of you are on the healing path, looking around for another boat is part of the process...it helps that both of you are experts in the mental health departments. thank you for being you and ploughing through all this and bringing us all along. With love from White Rock, BC,Canada....cheers....

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Tom we look forward to your comments and they often make us smile. Thanks for your ongoing support and friendship! Much love .. us

[@mangowalter8239]

Hello my friends! I understand your initial struggles with the emotions of purchasing and sailing again verses staying on land and this brings me to my story I wish to share with you both. I always wanted a Harley Davidson motorcycle and in 2012 I ordered one that was built for me. I waited 9 months to get it and it was so beautiful and I loved that motorcycle! With less than 500 miles on her, I took my maiden trip, and while sitting on a four lane highway in stopped traffic because of construction a car came up behind me and didn’t realize we were at a stand still. He hit me and my Harley flew over the two cars in front of me. I was ejected 25 feet airborne and landed face down on the pavement. After being flown in a helicopter to a trauma hospital and diagnosed with 3 breaks in my back and missing part of my leg, I had a long recovery ahead of me. During this two year recovery I so missed my Harley and every time I saw a motorcycle the yearning to ride again whispered my name. One day, against family and friends advise, I found myself back at the dealership ordering my second new Harley! People thought I was crazy and questioned my sanity but I knew why I had to get back on a motorcycle again. The morale of the story, I feel we share together, is my love of riding was taken from me by a chose I didn’t make. I didn’t retire from riding because I was ready, and therefore, I mentally could not accept my dream was over. The individual that hit me took my dream just like the fire took your boat. When we give something up that we enjoy it’s more than physically walking away, it’s also mentally. You both saw your dream go up in smoke just as I saw my Harley laying on the road totaled. Walking away and being grateful that I wasn’t killed didn’t stop my dreams because they weren’t on my terms. It’s the same with your catamaran. When you both decide to trade land for sea it must be on your terms and not from an act that took your dreams away from you! I went on to ride my second new Harley for seven more accident free years across the country and sold it last year when I was ready. I still cried when the new owner picked her up but my decision to walk away was on my terms and not one made for me when I wasn’t ready. I hope my story helps you understand why it’s your purpose to continue sailing! Lots of love from Judy and Mango 🥰 (Mango is my dog)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for your story Mango. Crikey, those are a lot of serious fractures - you were lucky to survive and our experience was much less traumatic than yours as there was no physical harm for us. So you have shown how to get back on that horse and the power of a strong dream. Well done!

[@allanfifield8256]

Paragraphs can be your friend.

[@westonbadke5434]

“Squalls. They come on you fast, and they leave you fast.” - Captain Ron.

[@michaelgalliher548]

"The business of life is the acquisition of memories. In the end, that’s all there is". -Carson the Butler

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Nice!

[@pauladamriddle13]

What about a Balance 526 or 482?

[@akosblaskovich5823]

I think a sunreef 50 would be perfect for you guys!!

[@clstjam4321]

I'm glad you're talking about getting back on that horse. The little experience I've had with sailing new boats is that they're full of growing pains and new models are even worse. That said, I doubt I'd ever buy a brand new boat again. I'd buy a used boat that's been used reasonably well as long as the engines have less than 2k hours on them. The two times I've done that I spent more time sailing and maintaining and less time fixing things that shouldn't have broken and trying to get the boat to where I wanted it. I sail mostly single handed and love monohulls, but if I ever bought a catamaran I think it would be a Privilege 580 or 615 (There are a few beautiful examples for sale right now). Ultimately I'd love a Gunboat but they're just so damn expensive. That said, always remember: A bad day sailing is 100 times better than a good day at work. Cheers!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Absolutely agree!

[@Techie_ASMR]

you guys are so inspiring..

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks very much. Where are you based?

[@Techie_ASMR]

​@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 well I m from Sri Lanka..

[@reddyman6915]

Such wise words “ buy the boat that suit’s you” 👍 your a lucky man by the way 😎

[@BostonClipper]

Another thoughtful video. Thank you. It is not just boats that are a series of design compromises. Cars, RVs, aircraft, buildings... etc.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yep, you get it …cheers for your support!

[@richardwilliams9471]

I very much like your delivery. Honest. Open. Insightful. and very eloquent. While it is tough to see you going through a very difficult transition, you have kept your balance and the priority on your relationship. Good on ya' Mates.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Richard, thanks for your support mate!

[@moonraker814]

You two are awesome. Wishing you all the best in the next steps.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers so much for your support!!

[@lifesailinc-lsi1120]

Supa, when you love sailing it's almost unfathomable not to stay in it for me as well. Likely the best sport to build all aspects of peoples lives. I love your heart. Thank you for sharing

[@shaggyduder]

A lot of would be sailors or boat owners, have no idea what they are getting into, its a "Romantic " idea for most, and when they find out the terrifying side of it, and the maintenance side, they bail. There are 10s of thousand of boat sitting on the hard or languishing in a slip by disillusioned owners.

[@njsarn]

Thank you for sharing your keen thoughts. We made our choices on larger purchases using a spreadsheet. Then put all our wants and needs into the left most column giving each attribute (price, cockpit location, covered helm, living space, speed, galley, delivery time, year built, estimated refurbishment, keel type, number of berths, heads etc) a weighing factor (1-3 or any as needed) in the 2nd attribute's column. Then allocate 2 additional columns for each candidate/options. Assign/fill in first option's column (with 1,2, 3, 4 or 5 - e.g. newer boat higher value, higher price lower value etc.) for each candidate options for each attribute. Multiply the attribute weighing factor (1,2,3) column by the number (1-5) you assigned each option it deserves. Just add up the values, with the highest score being the candidate of choice. Takes some guessing and emotional aspects out and can review why we made the choice we did later on. Appears you already made up your mind.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Nice work guys, hope to see you on the water one day!

[@nuffsaid7952]

Another good video and very accurate as to making the choice that is right for you. It’s great seeing you two bouncing back and staying positive. I could see a glow in both of you which is inspiring. Yes you are right about some KZbinrs using their popularity to influence people that their choice is the way to go for everyone looking to buy a yacht. From what I’ve seen most if not all of these KZbinrs don’t have anywhere near the years of sailing knowledge to make the bold statements that they do as to what is the “best” yacht for all. And of course there are the lounge room armchair sailors that don’t have a clue voicing opinions and handing out advice. You hit the nail on the head when you suggested to go and try the different vessels before focusing on which way to lean. Fast is fine for youngsters. They want the thrills and are happy with “roughing it” when compared to the old salts that have been there already and now want their comforts. An interesting note in the debate of speed vs comfort, of all the cats that have pitchpoled or capsized, how many were performance cats and how many were “blue water, circumnavigating cruising” cats? I know that if caught in really bad weather, I would prefer to be on the heavier cruising cat as opposed to the light weight performance cat. The extra weight gives far more stability and a softer ride, and it stays better “planted” without being bounced around and more resistance of the wind getting under the bridge deck to the point of lifting the vessel out of the water as with the lighter performance cats in severe high winds. For all those so-called self titled experts, I would love to hear them explain vessel stability in depth. Most wouldn’t know how to calculate their vessels stability once it is loaded setting out for a crossing. Really there is a lot of considerations and knowing the lightship stability details is crucial to being to accurately performing the calculations. For the layman these critical factors are LCG, TCG, VCG, GM, GM margin, LCB, TCB, VCB, LCF, TCF VCF and then once those are known there are the environmental forces effects for calculating the GZ etc. I would bet money that none of them could do a simple calculation of the change to the LCG, VCG & TCG from lightship to full tanks (water and fuel) not to mention the addition of tools, provisions, spares, cutlery, crockery, pots, pans POB etc. This is obvious when they look at their draft after loading and scratch their heads and come up with the solution of raising their waterline when they do the next haul out. Sad and unsafe to see this happening far too often. All manufacturers should provide the hydrostatic tables for the vessel which will give the captain/owner an instant reference if they are close in their calculations once loaded. These calculations were a daily requirement for me offshore, nowadays we have computer programs for this, but to maintain your certification manual calculations are required every time one is re-certified for the marine license. Sorry for the long winded comment. John, Eli keep doing you, that is why you have built the following you have, being honest and informative and non-judgemental. Cheers from WA (the lockout state ☹️) 🍷🍹🍻

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Lots of that is over my head but glad you understood my points and you are absolutely correct about boat safety and over filing them. Fortunately cats very very infrequently capsize but the heavier ones are less at risk than the light ones (and I want to sleep peacefully under sail)... thanks for the detailed comment

[@nuffsaid7952]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 have you guys considered shaft drive? In my opinion, for what it is worth, is that shaft drive is a better option over saildrive due to the practical maintenance factors and being far more robust with less risk of major damage in the event of contacting submerged objects. As you know, if a sail drive is dislodged, it exposes a large hole for flooding of the engine compartment due to the sealing diaphragm being breached. And of course the reduced need for haul out for maintenance. A leaking shaft seal on a shaft drive can be replaced without the need for haul out, whereas a leaking shaft seal on a saildrive requires haul out to replace the seal, which is not always possible in remote areas. With regards to vessel stability, there are training courses that are available that will cover this. There are online courses available too for those that don’t have the time to do the classroom training that would be beneficial and would give a very valuable understanding of doing the basic stability calculations. CBT have a stability training computer based course available that can be purchased online which is delivered as a CD-Rom which they will post to you. Loaded onto a computer you can do it at your leisure that has exams at the end of each chapter and a final exam at the end. Very worthwhile as a basic training tool.

[@MichaelBuck]

I love your honesty and raw discussion of what you are feeling and going through. This is real life and is what people really go through outside of the KZbin Sailing experience. Most may not realize the depth of what people go through behind the scenes. By the way, I am also in agreement with your "comfortability" philosophy as are MOST of the cruising community. A small percentage are into performance and SPEED, usually the young whippersnappers, lol, and make sacrifices for that speed. I agree with having a comfortable helm and a manageable helm so I can single-hand the boat under most weather conditions. The majority of cruisers in the world today are age 60 and older, therefore the demand for comfortable cruising is much higher than for performance. Aso, most cruisers spend 90% of their time in a marina or in an anchorage. As for speed to get out of the way of a storm, that's a myth with all the technology we have today. Most captains will do a lot of planning and take into consideration the upcoming weather conditions and NOT sail into major weather systems. If one is around, then you WAIT until a good weather window opens up, we don't mind having another sundowner while we wait, lol. I grew up in Florida and air-conditioning is a MUST most of the year, in your car and in your home. Yes, at times the temperature and breeze are perfect and you can sit outside on the lanai and enjoy. This is the same idea on a boat, just about EVERY Sailing channel I have seen, and in my own experience sailing, the weather is not always accommodating and comfortable and ALL of us would love to have A/C on board. I believe the issue with fire is primarily the bonding agents that are flammable and toxic. I have heard that manufacturers CAN put in additives to minimize the burn, meaning, while it may still ignite, it will be a slow burn which allows the opportunity to put the fire out and rebuild the damaged section. However, it's also my understanding that these additives also pose some issues with the bonding properties. Most manufactured boats are made from steel, aluminum, fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP), polyethylene, carbon fiber, and wood. Of those only steel and aluminum are considered non-flammable. But that would only be partially correct. Most aluminum and steel boats still have fiberglass, basalt, carbon fiber, insulation, or other materials to cover the metal areas. That means they are still using resins, like polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy to hold it all together. Therefore, no matter what you use there is going to be some sort of flammable material involved. The key is to MINIMIZE the flammability and spread of the fire so that it can be put out quickly and repaired easily. I am hoping in a few years we will develop ways to build boats that are fire retardant or fireproof and will not interfere with the bonding process.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for your comments very true, clearly you have great life experience as well and your wisdom comes through. Cheers for your support and hope we get to meet at some time…

[@neilnapier3276]

South Africa Manufactures the most Blue Ocean Catamarans designed to tough storm sailing water and conditions.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes they are - the weather in that area is very testing do you have to have good boats!

[@nkolchenko]

The King is dead. Long live the King! That's nice that you didn't give up. Of course it is hard to loose something you are emotionally attached to, but you can always buy another boat and continue doing what you like to do :-)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks - we certainly intend to and the delay and repeated process is frustrating! We will take one step at a time and get "there" - wherever "there" is!

[@SDO456]

You should definitely consider the Privilege 510 which is a true live aboard, Best of luck and support!

[@crystallimerick4787]

Hang in there guys. Lost my house to a fire one time so I really understand your pain. Anxiously awaiting the future for you. If you ever make it up the east coast towards the Chesapeake Bay, would love to share a adult beverage with you.

[@lyfandeth]

Consider: houses burn down all the time. If you ask any fire agency, you may be shocked to hear that household appliances and those wall plug power supplies are among the wort culprits. Having the Big Red Switch and being able to shut an entire boat down, is something I wish houses had!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Indeed!

[@jodymooney255]

I love the words that you are delivering

[@nelsonnorgell9923]

after watching this video and listening to the cons I saw the same with owning a home. I live in So.California. USA, we have the earthquake that can take a perfectly built home and crack the walls, and or foundation, fires such as the BIG one in the No.California, drought. So when talking about cons, it doesnt matter where one lives something is always right around the corner willing to spank our serenity. The only difference I see is the fact your sailing does is waking up in a new glorious part of earth and my home is rooted. My goal is to do what your doing..., traveling. I like the Leopard Cat but I would like to know what caused that fire and hopefully one day I'd like to find out. Thanks for your video's, they are very informative.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hey Nelson, the investigation of the cause of the fire is not leaning towards vessel fault or something that would occur in normal sailing / marina situations so is not a risk likely to recur... Boats are still safe - relatively!

[@peterreynolds8146]

You both look & sound so much better with every new video since the fire. Lizzie has a glow in her smiling face too! Both of you are a real Gem!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Peter! Sweet words...

[@rayb3117]

After such a horrific incident, you guys decide to still want to taste the adventures. Good for you. Please check out Lagoons and Outremers. Both are great by all accounts and one or both may check off some more boxes. happy adventuring and I look forward to more videos as u seek your next boat.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Ray! We are looking once again at all the obvious options and some less obvious but the viewers are telling us about many more too!

[@yachticus]

Guys here is a thing - this comes from the background of being the principal of the sailing school on the East coast of Aus. Wind and wind noise. In a similar way to the fact that animals get spooked as the wind gets up (see animals nervous, spooking behavior on windy, stormy days) - my experience with trainees is not much different. As the wind speed increases over force 6 /force 7 the anxiety measurably increases - even more so in a heavy sea. Interestingly - the simple use of a set of soft foam earplugs seems to entirely remove the winds spooking effect. end result - every time AWS was going north of Force 7 I make sure the trainees have earplugs in -this reduces anxiety which in turn (curiously) reduces the likelihood of seasickness.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Dear Ian, You are absolutely right in that anxiety dramatically increases seasickness. Great idea with ear plugs - I will get Eli to use to them!!! WooWoo wind earplugs!!! Great plan.

[@eeteetravelfreely0001]

VERY informative...tq barefoot doctor's ..be happy n Liv d dream..

[@Eddy.K.GR.]

Really enjoyed the discussion and food for thought presented. Thanks!

[@Jabbaerwocky]

You're back on your feet! Great! I'd love to see you get the Garcia Explocat 52 or Outremer 55.

[@RiverWoods111]

Also, a great place to begin sailing is learning to sail small dinghy sailboats. I fell in love with sailing in the 90s sailing Lasers on a lake. Then when you join the yacht club you are actually coming in with a basic understanding. I have been told that my dinghy sailing experience is better than most people who start off on yachts. That said, they are super fun! I loved to push the envelop as far as I could healing them over and getting as much speed as I could without going for a swim. I went swimming a lot, but I learned the limits of the boats and the feel of it.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Me too - I learned on 11-14ft dinghies Inc lasers.It was great fun and the benefit is that you can see the effect of what you do instNtly so you learn fast

[@clayblair6727]

I have been following your videos for only a few weeks. I wanted to comment on lightning protection. Just a bit of background, I have been working in the marine electronics field for 45+ years. I lived and worked in south Florida for 20 of those years. It is one of the lightning capitols of the world and lightning strikes are common. I was also involved with some lightning studies for vey large sailing vessels (including Maltese Falcon). A non-conductive mast may be helpful if your rigging is also non conductive, however you are removing the Faraday cage effect which offered some protection for those inside. Actually the most important thing to understand is the static charge on the rig. Lightning can be positive charged or negative charged and it is looking for a difference in charge to discharge to. Obviously the water or earth is normally zero volts. This means that the static discharge to earth can happen any time. If a tall object is charged with the opposite charge when compared to the charge in the clouds above then it can actually attract a discharge from the clouds. Obviously there is no control over a static charge polarity in your rig and there is not way to know what polarity is in the sky above. Therefore the most important thing to do is to minimises the charge on the rig by proper grounding to the water. By doing so the rig is at the same potential as the water around you and therefore does not attract an opposite charge. With grounding it is also important that ground cables that run from the rigging (chain plates and mast base...) needs to be as direct and straight as possible. Lightning discharge is so fast that it doesn't go around corners well so it tends to jump when it comes to a sharp bend in a conductor. Grounding cables should be big. You can use ground plates that mount on the outside of the hull but lacking that, metal thru hulls may be helpful. These do not guarantee anything, only that your rig is not attracting lightning. If you get hit, then, as you said, it is unpredictable what happens. Even thru hulls can be blown out. Aluminium boats are still susceptible to lightning strikes. I was working on an aluminium sailboat in a yard across the canal from where you boat was docked and it had the sails removed and was getting ready for a yard period. The crew (and us contractors) had just left the boat when it was struck. The lightning went everywhere. All electronics and electrical equipment was destroyed. The stainless jib halyard was welded in 4 spots to the forestay (the jib had been removed and the halyard was shackled to the fitting at the bottom (deck level) of the forestay). Anyway so much for old stories, I just advise that any boat needs to have the rig properly grounded. If someone does not have grounded rig, in a lightning storm you can drop the anchor in the water and get the chain around the forestay or some other way connecting the rig to the water.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Dear Clay, That is really important information for everyone and we all need to know how to protect our boat from lightning, just like fire... I have heard about the anchor chain trick but was not sure how to do it (properly) and also thought that you needed to wrap it around the mast base and into the water... Great explanation though and also the fact that trees that are not conductive get hit, means that even when non conductive the mast can be destroyed.... Thanks for the great and detailed message! John and Eli

[@davidstansfield3347]

good on ya both!!!! enjoy

[@ianprice9005]

Great news guys 👌👍

[@rogerhache4588]

Really enjoy your videos, every aspect of you sharing your dream, but most of all , the chemistry between both of you is so good and wonderful , and I think it makes your dream that much more beautiful. Thank you.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Oh, that's very nice, thanks!

[@MK-gr9qz]

Really great one.. thank you👌🏻

[@ianfirth-clark5975]

Good to see you both still with fire in your bellies

[@robinspat]

Great to see you're moving forward and looking at another Leopard Cat. Used or new? Refit? So you know what's in it and state of play? Or freshie with extras to be added (85lbs Mantus anchor or Rocna perhaps)? How about a little wander about in the next video, where you're practicing as land lubbers, grass underfoot, flora and fauna, wildlife mask wearers... for us vicariously travelling via KZbin in a time of CoVid? ;) Best wishes from London ;)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

We are keeping our options open as the choices are very limited. New or young second hand... Thanks for your suggestions!

[@SRMWorkshop]

Shelter is always good. In my area the weather is not great and being soaked in 50f / 10c just sucks.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

I hear ya!

[@jtlissner3062]

Great episode, thank you for sharing. "Love is found in compromise".

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Indeed ...

[@chrisrieger4140]

Very valuable info. Love you guys sorry about the burned boat but I’m getting so much out of seeing you deal with living through it and recovering. Thanks so much for your videos!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Chris. Glad they are useful!!!

[@ultrarekt5114]

Thank you for your considerations, thinking about the same models. But waiting time is significant! Other cats: Balance 526, Knysna 500, Privilege 510. Subscribed your channel because of the good vibe and comparable situation (except the burn). Have a great day from The Netherlands!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Good luck John on your journey too! We aim to be in the Med next year so quite close to u... Glad you like the vibe!

[@sandrarenwick1225]

I agree that the leopard has most of your wish list! We love the 46 leopard and would choose that one! Hopefully they will get the insurance part taken care of so you can get on with finding your dream boat again. Best of luck in your search, h55 is beautiful as well as the Equisite x5

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Sandra. Once people are happy with the boat they had before, I think most stick with that unless something else ticks the boxes or is clearly better!

[@heaven-is-real]

Love and Health to you as well, thank-you for sharing your story.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks!

[@jamesdaniel5335]

I am glad you guys are still planning on sailing. Thank you for taking us on this emotional journey with you.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

We hope it’s helpful for others which is why we are sharing the thought process that any couple will need to go through...

[@jimpeterspeters176]

Well done guys never stop following your dreams :) your so inspirational and your positivity shines out :) life is full of the unexpected but maybe sometimes its needed to move ever forward ! my love and best wishes to you both for the future which is sounding so positive :) jim from Germany :)

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Jim! Hopefully in your part of the world next season!

[@mariusgrobler4235]

Great video and thx for sharing your very interesting views...great advice and looking forward to see how your journey continues. Ps: love the whoo-whoo winds :-)

[@WillN2Go1]

Inspiring. So happy you've retained your positive spirit.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Glad you like our content!

[@michielvandiermen9754]

Nice to hear, that you will bounce back! Life happens for you! Hope you will find a new leopard soon! Because in this case you will buy time. Time to enjoy what you like!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Michael!

[@zendesigner]

catch up with Sailing Dauntless, there might be some win-win with what they are doing

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes Ive seen them - heart breaking for the old owners... Just like how we are feeling I am sure!

[@emberbaker7798]

Good for you! I'm glad you are planning to "Get back on that horse." Sounds like you are most likely going to look for a used Leopard. Makes sense. Have you seen the Vision 444? I find that one interesting, though it's pretty new. There are some good video tours on You Tube. No front cockpit, though. Happy hunting! Thanks for doing these videos.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks again Ember

[@Jean-PaulCh]

Thank you for the great advice

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers for your support !

[@sailingjustducky3004]

Glad to see you haven't given up the dream. Check out Knysna Yachts. They have a new 550 with flybridge. I belive timelines are about a year to build. I know my 500 will be about a year from signature to delivery. Good luck and good sailing.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks, I had heard of them but have not had a chance to check all the options....

[@latitudeash]

I would love to be in your position to be able to spec and buy a cat. Be happy you are the envoy of all of us. 👍🏼❤️

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes it is exciting but is deja vu from just 12 months ago!

[@tonyoreilly2637]

Just found you and just subbed, I look forward to this journey.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Tony, welcome onboard!

[@regkane-Pluvis]

You Guys have attitude , I love it. Walk Tall .Reg

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Reg appreciate your support!

[@gbsailing9436]

Had you watched the Sailing Ruby Rose Catamaran series? It is well worth the look as they are keen sailors and know what they want as well. Protection, protection and ventilation!!!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hey GB, Yes we watch their channel but it is the Seawinds that have the winches just outside the steering station so that is still exposed to the water, wind and sun... It was the 1600 that almost got us because of the lifting daggerboard and shallow draft but lost out due to the lack of front cockpit and flybridge and exposed winches... Close though.

[@gbsailing9436]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 Yes Sure. I saw another video just a couple of days ago with the glass installed so it can be done. I myself would probably lean towards the Garcia if I had that sort of money. Love you series! Best of luck to you both! 🙏

[@giampaologiardina3203]

Hi guys, nice episode and I'm glad to see you back on boat selection business. You have generated a lot of comments and suggestion about your next boat, and I also did my part immediately after the sad event. But as you wisely said, John, you have to choose what fit your needs, there is not right or wrong, and there is not the perfect boat either. But I guess you guys have already in mind what to choose ;) Looking forward to your next steps! Lot of love to you guys! Ciao, Giampaolo

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes we are fairly set on a Leopard again... Thanks for commenting again.

[@SV-SunX]

Watching your adventure was amazing! Watching your tragedy was heartbreaking! So glad we didn’t give up and as fellow sailors that we are looking to get our second boat, we discovered the Silent Yachts and we believe that could be the future of sailing. Whatever you choose will be the right one for you! Best of luck and keep on going! Chris

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Chris, we have been looking at them but it’s bit early for us to be that cutting edge!

[@SV-SunX]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 maybe my takes on solar motor sailing will provide you some good points (Mimi is my wife and I’m trying to get her again into sailing): Sailing vs Motor Boat Sailing negative points - Not like a car! 1-sailing leans 2-sails lines 3-sails maintenance and 10 years usage 4-adjusting sails all the time 5-never go directly towards destination only zigzag 6-wind dies or too strong 7-rigging replacement every 10 years 8-mast acts as paratrasnet 9-engines maintenance and spare parts on board 10-safety walking on deck 11-solar panels space 12-solar panels shaded by sails 13-safety for the drone with no mast and rigging 14- safety on sail adjusting for night storm etc 15-cost of diesel for using the engines when no wind, marinas, etc 16-noise during engine usage 17-smoke from engines 18-hard to maneuver 19-lots to learn and potential major mistakes 20-Stressfull 21-extra equipment that could malfunction: wind vane 22- Mimi liked better motor sailing than sailing even on monohull with just 4 m width compared to Silent55 of 8 m width and more stable to rocking by not having mast and also the round bottom shape of mono 22-zero chance to flip due to mast removal (never will happen what happened to me on mono after leaving ValVerde-canarias) 23-deeper draft anchor in deeper water with bigger waves

[@GypzyJack]

Now that was a really great video, docs. It put a lot of colour on the canvas.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Very clever my friend! Thanks for your support

[@allan8004]

Hi Doc's, so devastated to see your beautiful boat go like that, I'm like you about waiting for production so a stab in the dark, I here'd someone say that the Annapolis sail boat show was on soon, I wonder if there may be a demo boat there for you to purchase after the show, Just a thought and and a hope I guess, all the very best from QLD,

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Cheers Allan thanks for your support!

[@guenthermichaels5303]

Well said..looks like another Leopard, ..If You had 2 years and another million, the new Privilege 580 would tick all your boxes.. IN TERMS OF Build QUALITY nothing can compare. Cheers from yyz

[@caby9311]

yeah my first is gona be a careel 22 just starting out at 62 let's see

[@dpreezlj]

Glad to hear that you are not giving up on sailing. The Balance 526 and 482 are maybe worth a look for you. it has dagger boards and a protected helm position.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks - we will check them out!

[@davidcahill3104]

Just saw on a video of a catamaran on fire and it looks like a leopard 50. Don’t know my catamarans that well but if it ain’t it very similar

[@nicksutcliffe4395]

Hi sorry to hear about your boat. Have you heard about the balance 526 it has dagger boards, but maybe is a 2 year wait as well.

[@nedwphillips2126]

Glad to hear your both going to get another boat... I've narrowed my search down to Balance Cats ATM, It appears that they do not have a front cockpit however they have dagger boards and hand built so could possibly have a front cockpit made... Talk to Phil or the design team.. and after hearing what you said about why you guys liked and used it has got me thinking too lol either way in what ever boat you chose will suit your needs/wants etc looking forward to seeing that process too.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks Ned. I didn’t know Balance did that variety...

[@nedwphillips2126]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 They don't... yet lol

[@toffa66]

You two should go for a Outremere 55. It it would suit you very well.

[@wesanderson7918]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. You gave us a couple things to think about when selecting a cat. I always thought performance but I will be 56 when I get out there so slow might be a better fit. Cheers!

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

What ever works for you - my 42 foot performance cat was bought by a mid 50s guy but he loved racing and is not really looking at round the world sailing... It is just about what YOU want - good luck in working that out!

[@nadjafelton1894]

Great discussion about performance versus comfort! That’s exactly why we bought a L50 too. Hope you can find another one without having to wait for two years…you’d have to pry ours out of our dead hands though 😉

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes , L50 owners always seem to be happy with them! Great sign of a good boat.

[@lawrencetessier2409]

Its all inspiring to see that you guys haven't lost your mojo for sailing after everything that is happened if you're reading this I love you.love and light to you both. Edit -after I watched the video. I'm sorry for saying this but it sure sounds like you're trying to justify your boat choice in options to people who have said otherwise just remember it's your boat doesn't matter what other people might say or think or what they think is proper its your boat your choice at the end of the day I know whatever you guys choose you will love.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

What I was trying to explain is that there are influencers out there that make judgements and statements without experience or without the insight of other people’s needs. For example Ruby Rose poo hooing the forward cockpit and Riley from La Vagabonde criticizing AC - it’s all personal choice depending on what stage of life you are at. I was trying to get people to make their decisions for themselves...

[@Fairchildflyer]

I watched the video 3 times, It seem to me you are sold on Leaped 50'S, well be watching your progress.

[@leonardtasker6732]

great up date just hope you can get yor dream back i like how think it thour together i see most of you videos' that's dean on youtube just love how you to get on so well and work it out together Leonard tc and keep safe ooo m i told to go sailing now as 70 past last may from fife Scotland's east coast not far from St Andrews

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

I went to Dundee Uni and kept my boats in the Tay and often smiled round the Fife Coast! Thanks for your support!

[@dc1544]

Remember, Houses, cars most everything catches fire. Nowhere is 100% safe. So get back on the saddle per say. Live your dream.

[@glennedwards1449]

Seawind make great cats which is a problem thanks to Ruby Rose I believe at least one of their models is sold out for the next 5 years of course there will no doubt be resellers selling their brand new boat for a premium. However something to consider if you are buying new.

[@westonbadke5434]

I will be having a cat line as my first offering with my brand. Unity Yachts. I’ll have them engineered to be built in composite/Carbon Fibre/Aluminum.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Sounds very exciting!

[@utahjonnymontana8698]

Hey guys what about the privilege 510 I think that one will suit you guys very nicely she has everything been checking into it myself give it a look you never know just an idea

[@argydubbaya]

All things are in the lap of the gods. The sun still shines after the storm. Bad fortune is what good fortune leans on; good fortune is what bad fortune hides in.

[@OllieW501]

Xquisite X5?

[@soaredfish45]

Great to see you guys have not decided to put your shoes back on and intend to keep your toes tucked into the sand! 😉

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Haha thanks Trevor, we want to continue and will work our way through! Cheers for your support!

[@WSallai]

Have you considered buying an aluminum-hulled catamaran? It will give you the ability to go to the higher latitudes, give you grounding protection in tropical waters, and better survivalists for striking a partially submerged object like a container. With boat lengths that are near 50-feet actually weigh about the same as fiberglass boats of that length with greater strength. There are many builders that provide such boats, Garcia being one that comes to mind. In any case, hope you’re able to get into a new boat and continue on your life’s journey.

[@gbsailing9436]

The Gasia they mention is AU.

[@jackdickerson2031]

Great points guys. Have y'all considered a Saba 50 - Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamaran? Buying a used catamaran would get you back on the water quicker. I can not wait to see you back out there. Love what y'all do out there helping people.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks for your comments and watching the channel.We sailed on a 52 ft FP / lagoon and that allowed us to be clear that we preferred the Leopards. Mainly for the sea keeping and performance but I was not happy with their structural work (after knowing how I built my bulkheads). Having said that there are thousands of happy FP owners and round the world cruisers - personal preference again!

[@herbdesson6843]

The​ harryproa​ has​ a​ version​ designed​ as​ a​ medical​ office.​ Lots​ of​ cudtomization available.​ The​ designer, Rob​ Denny, is​ great​ to​ work​ with.

[@gbsailing9436]

If you’re still looking at the Seawind in the back of your mind, They can be fitted with a shroud around the helms. Why not approach either Seawind or Gasia with the REQUIREMENTS you want.. I’m sure they could add a front hood to the Gasia front cockpit. They might also accommodate a change in length if you required something slightly longer. They might offset some of the extra cost to you for the opportunity to do the R&D into making a whole new line, say a 60fter.

[@glennedwards1449]

Adding length to any boat is not as easy as it sounds all sorts of calculations required regarding weight distribution strength balance etc

[@gbsailing9436]

@@glennedwards1449 No that is true which is why I said that Gasia may help offset some of the cost of the boat because they would have to bear the brunt of the R&D to make it happen. But having then done the R&D they would then capitalise on future sales. If they wished to make a new larger boat WITHOUT a ready client then the whole cost of R&D is totally borne by the company. I’ve heard of this being done before. So it does make sense.

[@HB-C_U_L8R]

I love the sound effects.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks...

[@HB-C_U_L8R]

@@barefootdoctorssailing8567 Thank you for giving me a smile on an otherwise bad day.

[@rustie4242]

I saw a review of the windelo 50 and they said the mast options is alloy or carbon. So you have the same issues with lightening strikes. I would love to have air conditioning but our cat is too small for that level of luxury.

[@calvingarrett3245]

I wish you both well on your choice of what kind of boat you're going to want I dream about sailing but I need to learn how I'm 60 years old I would have to have someone teach me up and down the coastline of California to Washington and back get some experience because I love the ocean a multi-hull is what I would like to have but I should start out with a cheap boat and learn first I hope you can get the boat you want I see so many videos with beautiful tropical areas I just can't wait to get out there God bless you both I wish you well stay safe watching from Roseville California USA Ray Garrett

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Getting out there on other people’s boats is the best way to start! Good luck

[@simonhantler8062]

if you talk with head office seawind ( not agents) i think you mihght be pleased with whats coming up, no not the RR1370 cat. just ask them and it may tick all your boxes.

[@maldwindrummond6158]

Good Evening, and thank you for the video. I was interested to hear your thoughts regarding the fly bridge and forward cockpit, particularly as you have a performance sailing background. The forward cockpit is something which is very attractive to me, and has led me to consider a Chris White cat, as well as a Leopard. A CW would be a better performance cat, but might not give you the load carrying ability. I love fly bridges, and most of my motor boats have had one, in fact I always run the boat from there. On a sailing boat, I always thought the penalty of raising the center of effort would not be worth the trade off, so was very interested to hear your positive comments on that subject. Best, Maldwin

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Yes, priorities change over time , as we explained. Go for a long sail or charter on boat and make the choice to suit you! The upper deck has no top so there is no significant weight up there. Good luck

[@MartyDidier]

Great Update! Thanks for the opinion preview, it’s helpful to know why you decided on different options. Considering boat fires, unfortunately Basalt built boats are still fabricated using a Resin mix. It’s good to know there are alternate choices for Masts then using Aluminum. Seems to me, regarding lightening Nonmetal should be preferred. Hull bottoms of Aluminum boats being thicker is very attractive. Although my thought is these boats are made in Factories may still be modified during construction to provide a desired layout. Desired purpose of having one built is because of it being Aluminum and structurally welded. If design changes add a little weight the structure is more sound than others. Lastly, buyers waiting for their ordered boats do on occasion cancel their Order. This makes their boat available, how would someone check if any are available? The other point is it’s understood building is often done by groups of smaller Builders who have agreements with the end builder. Somewhere in that matrix may be opportunities to modify to get what you want. Am enjoying your Channel!

[@MartyDidier]

Happen to run across this video that is part of a series. It’s recommended to watch all of them. He appears resourceful in emergencies and acted quickly. What he found explained additionally more then the other video below. 👉Lightening demonstrates to be able to cause more then one hole in the Hull. Plus in Emergencies you’ll need all the necessary gear to patch the hull while in water. It was surprising that Epoxy mixed into a thick paste would adhere under water. Gorilla Tape advertises to stop holes in similar fashion, but we need to the hull first. Don’t know how dependable this would be?! His gearbox problem indicates serious arcing within that may have fused components together. Disaster at Sea. Lightning strikes my boat and it is sinking. My battle ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/favOgpR9j76XjKs Best not to Follow BarStool Opinions. Always research on your own! Engineer has done research from Power Companies to learn their answers with dealing with Lightening. Lightening is something you can’t escape from but can prepare your boat to handle the Charge differential between Ocean and Clouds. It’s proven you’ll reduce getting hit. Lightning Hits Boats. Here's How to Deal With It. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqbVfnptgK2XjZY I specifically needed his opinion of if Aluminum Masts or Nonconductive Masts are better. His opinion has value. Read my comments and his replies.

[@andymarshall2201]

Have you considered a Fountaine Pajot, the new 47 and 51 look amazing.

[@jbudgeon1]

Have you checked out the Balance Catamarans

[@karlgiel8891]

Nice episode. I am from Cape Town.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Hi to Cape Town!!

[@andrebauer576]

If you can afford it, I'd go for an HH built with specific aircraft epoxy which is non flammable. There is also rescue boat polyester which is non flammable. But carbon can be used only with Epoxi.

[@barefootdoctorssailing8567]

Thanks good info - thanks.