[C320-list] 320 vs. something just a little bigger

[Chris White]

 Hi Paul
Definately go bigger, the Catalina 36 is ideal.I have owned my 320 for over 20 years, but the reality is that the forecabin is basically only suitable for storage.Those extra 3 feet would be such a benefit.Having said that, the 320 is a great boat, good design and fine build quality.It also sails very well.
Chris WhiteYacht Dandy#449UK  

    On Monday, 14 December 2020, 00:27:39 GMT, Paul Ducham <paul at ducham.com> wrote:  
 
   Seeking opinions from those who downsized to a 320 or anyone who has a
  320 and finds themselves wishing they had spent the extra dollars for
  something a little bigger.

  I�ve always subscribed to the boat philosophy that you should own the
  smallest one you or your spouse can tolerate. And I�m mostly convinced
  that the 320 should be our next/last boat. But I wonder if I�m going to
  find myself wishing I had spent the extra money on something with 2-3
  more feet of LOA for the extra storage, motion comfort, and additional
  space.

  For context, I�m 55 and trying to pick a boat that will suite me for
  the next twenty years, assuming I�m not going to get stronger, smarter,
  or more coordinated with age. I solo sail mostly (even when my wife or
  friends are along, I�m pretty much solo sailing) out of Chicago on Lake
  Michigan. For the next couple of years, the boat will be used mostly
  for day sailing and weekending with my wife and dog, with a 2-4 week
  cruise each summer, mostly staying in marinas. But the longer-term plan
  is to spend more of each summer cruising the great lakes.

  All thoughts and opinions welcome.

  Cheers!

  Paul