Check out the Dufour 36 Performance also...introduced in 2011. There are a few boats on the market in Europe a bit higher than 100k Euros but a great crossover boat...won Sailing World magazine's Best Crossover Boat of the Year. http://www.dufour-yachts.com/en/yachts/performance-36
I think we should bring Mystiere out there! Or perhaps we can convince Vin to go out again with the Coconut. BJ would have to leave now in order to get back in time to be the mother ship.
I'm in New England but happy to answer most of your questions. The questions I can't help with are the ones regarding local moorings, etc.
Craig Nann
Northstar Yacht Sales
Oceaneer, have you considered the new Dufour 500GL? She is a new model for Dufour that was introduced a little more than a year ago. I know of one on the east coast of the US and one on the west coast. I don't think either owner is racing so likely no PHRF rating as yet. Decent sail plan...
Lots of comments in this thread about boats being used for different specific purposes...shorthanded distance racing, weeknight cruise-racer, etc. Obviously one has to find the right boat for the type of sailing they plan on doing 90% of the time. But if you're looking for something that will...
Have you looked at the Dufour 36 Performance? She's still got a comfy cruising interior with nice fit and finish but she goes. Take a look...www.northstaryachtsales.com/dufour-36p.php.
Have you looked at the Dufour 45e? Another great cruiser/racer with all the creature comforts for extended cruising. Check her out at www.northstaryachtsales.com/dufour-45e.php
Have you also considered Dufour's 36 and 40e? The 36 is a sprit boat with masthead kite and won Sailing World's Crossover Boat of the Year for her ability to go around the cans while keeping the wife happy too. She rates slightly slower than a 109 because she is a bit heavier but in the events...
Take a look at the Dufour 40e as well. The boat was originally designed for symmetric kites but you could certainly do an a-kite set up. We delivered a 2012 here in Narragansett Bay. I'd be happy to get you aboard for a look. Check out the Dufour 40e at...
I just listed this 1997 Dehler 33. She is a quick nimble boat with new sails and electronics and has all the creature comforts you're looking for. Only $79,900. Check out the listing at www.northstaryachtsales.com and give me a call with questions. Craig
Bow,
If you're looking for something to cruise in comfort with the family first and then do some IRC distance racing or even local buoy racing second, you should take a look at the Dufour 36 and 40e. Admittedly, the new boat prices are going to be close or slightly more than the $250k you're...