GL: Appropriate trawler for Caribbean cruising

[Al Rodriguez]

Joe:

Thanks for your input and that of others, regarding the performance of the GH37/N37 class boats.  I have not had a chance to see up close a GH37 or N37 for that matter, as the N47 is the only offering Mirage brings to the Miami boat show.

I heard good comments as well as a couple of issues concerning the water intake design, and the use of steel, from other subscribers on this list.  Please see comments below:


> > From a purely layout perspective with access, etc they seem to be great boats.
> > They have that gigantic Galley, the nearly walk in
> engine
> > room, etc.  Now after talking to the owner and others
> here
> > is a brief list of highs and lows.
> >
> > Highs
> > 1) Galley
> > 2) Living Space
> > 3) Engine room
> > 4) Steel
> > 5) Draft at about 2 1/2 feet
> > 6) Twins
> > 7) Huge storage aft
> > 8) Pretty large tankage.
> >
> > Lows
> > 1) The boat has a shallow draft and no keel running
> the
> > length of the boat.  When it's windy(10 to 15+
> depending
> > on direction) the boat has a hard time going straight.
> > 2) The haul shape even though it's kind of full
> > displacement, has many long flatish areas.  These
> areas
> > while providing stability from leaning add to the crab
> walk
> > affect and a problem with beam seas.
> > 3) Some have complained about warranty work.  The
> company
> > is small and hard to get some work done.
> > 4) The area where the engines draws from aft is very
> > shallow.  They have this unique water system that
> draws all
> > water from a singular place.  When in any type of
> rough
> > water that space looses water and the AC, engine, etc
> > complain.
> > 5) Again, the company is small in volume and size.
> > 6) Steel - Especially in the islands.  Recipe for rust
> >
> > I actually think it's a neat boat with a ton of
> room
> > for it's size.  But when working with them I would
> look
> > at some of these factors and think about where it is
> you
> > will be boating.  I heard from more then one person
> about
> > the water issues.