T&T: 2001 Mainship 39 versus 1988 Grand Banks 42

[Bob and Vicki Schuerger]

Chas-

As the owner of a 1988 Grand Banks Classic, I would prefer owning and cruising
on the GB over most coastal boats. A 22 year old boat might need some
updating, depending on how the previous owners have maintained her. Prices on
GB's appear to be lower than we think they should be, and now might be the
time to buy one. Ours has Vacuflush heads, Rich Beers cold plate
refrigeration, Naiad stabilizers, Heart Inverter, Satellite TV and the
ever-running 135 Lehmans. These are upgrades that you can find in a pre-owned
GB.

I was taught at a young age that you buy boats by the pound. There is a
Mainship in the slip next to us right now, the wind is 20 to 25 kts, we're
experiencing a little roll, not much here at the marina. The Mainship is
rocking and rolling all over the slip. The GB weights 34,000 pounds dry plus
600 gallons of fuel, 279 gallons of water, and 40 gallons of waste. The
Mainship weights 22,000 pounds, 500 gallons of fuel, 130 gallons of water, and
50 gallons waste.

Maintenance on the GB includes waxing the fiberglass, two coats of wood
treatment (varnish, armada, etc.) on the bright work. Our only bright work is
our caprail. That would be the only difference between us and a Mainship,
wood-wise.

More importantly to us, the boat is 100% fiberglass, hull and house. We have
the plugs where the stabilizers were put it. Solid and thick. I guess you have
to decide what your priorities are. We did, and we are thrilled with our
choice.


Bob and Vicki Shuerger
"Blue Moon"
GB 42-1009