Robert, I think the issue is, and John was trying to hint at it, is the factors that drive the boat decision are as much about you, your tolerance for new versus used, your ability and willingness to repair things and so forth. You can do this for a whole lot less then what I've paid, or a whole lot more. Let me try to give you an example. I said my budget was 500 to 800k. That ruled the Krogen 44 out for me. Could I have spent more? Yes, was I willing to? No. Not becuase I couldn't afford it, but because I picked a percentage of my net worth that I wasn't willing to put into a single assett. Kind of like never letting a single stock be more then 4% of your portfolio. So, maybe we need to get some dialog about the kind of things that influece the decision? Perhaps that's asking too much or getting to complicated. Perhaps the best approach is to discuss two paths: A. Buy new or build, commission the boat with the builder, take advantge of the latest and greatest systems and technologies, price, is it an issue? B. Buy used, what boats are candidates, what would you look for as MUST HAVES. What systems would need replacement or rebuilding? What are the best bang for the buck add on's. Dave Cooper (well Nancy really) does a great job telling the story of finding and outfitting Swansong, you can read some of it here: http://www.allatsea.net/specificissueeditorial.php?featureid=1058 I've shared some of what went into my thinking and some not so obvious influences. Perhaps the first thing for you to give us some insight into is are you comfortable going used, or does new appeal to you? Do you have a "rough" idea of what you "want" to spend. Remember, you can buy a 20yo sailboat for $70k and do this on about $2,000 a month and live a lifestyle most of the worlds population could only dream about. It's all relative to our experinece. Scott Bulger, Alanui, N40II, Seattle WA