We all know that the two happiest days in boat ownership are the day you buy and the day you sell. A Strangford Lough sailor who has qualified for the free travel pass for some time now has realised that it is time to part company with the substantial Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 389 that has served him well for ten years, with his family's voyaging achievements including Cruising Club awards.
While the nitty-gritty of the boat’s technical details is to be found with MGM Boats, he has allowed himself some lyricism in contemplating the situation, and here are his Springtime selling reflections:
“Is the start of the new season the best time to buy a boat? Without doubt, yes. Buying second-hand, to become the new owner of a classic or future classic, is a journey of discovery. How well does your new mistress behave, under sail or under engine? How comfortable is she at anchor or in a seaway? How many can you seat around the cockpit while enjoying a fine lunch at a mooring at Ringhaddy?
Buy at the start of the season and enjoy your first year. Any new owner will find happiness basking in the compliments from family and friends. Slight imperfections will be overlooked. After all, love is blind. As time goes on, the new owner will find the inclination to renew or modify this and that.
My experience of owning many boats tells me it is best to live with her for a while to see and know what must be done. If you mean to race, you might want new sails. This is a major investment and needs to be well thought out. If you are cruising, you might want a new cooker or loo. Family can see things you might have overlooked. Buy now and spend the summer enjoying your new boat. In the off-season, make her perfect.
Oyster Bay is a Jeanneau 389, first launched in 2016. A beautiful sailing boat with good sails and a strong engine. Accommodation is very comfortable and fresh. There is a very large owner's cabin aft. The engine is a 30 hp Yanmar, serviced every year at the end of the season. There are loads of photos on the MGM Boats website. A trial sail on Strangford Lough is possible by arrangement. I think first to see will buy”.
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