[PCW] Motorsailors

[bob Austin]

I agree that motor sailors are the best passagemakers--and that many of the
cats would adopt well to this concept.  However, the Nordhavn 56 motorsailor
has many defects (to my mind) which will negate its values.
The foreward cockpit is almost useless on a passage.  This is in a very good
part of the boat--and some what wasted.  The area will be subject to spray,
difficult to shade or protect.  The galley is no where near the eating
area..How is one going to get food to the pilot house?  Frankly most Admirals
like being up in a pilot house when cooking (at least most that I have known).
The rig is very short-800 sq feet of sail--not enough unless in a stiff
breeze--about the same as my Cal 46--a much narrower and lighter boat.  There
are other issues with the accomidations--too bad.

I would really like to see the developement of a good motorsailor cat
passagemaker--shoal draft, good pilot house, managable rig and long range
under power.

Bob Austin