New adventures on a Back Cove

Baccalieu II, Back Cove 41 © RCR Yachts

Few new boat owners will forget the first time they lay eyes on their boat. Whether it's brand new or pre-owned, it's special to see all your dreams and plans encapsulated in one vessel.

It was no different in July for Mike and Donna Hill when they first saw Baccalieu II, their new Back Cove 41. After seeing it the Miami Boat Show and ordering one through RCR, they had some time to wait between when then and when they'd finally be able to embark on their planned trip of the Great Loop. It was worth the wait. Donna, for her part, was worried about the hull color they selected, as they'd stepped away from traditional navy and opted for dark grey. Seeing it for the first time in the water at RCR Buffalo, she says," I really loved it; it feels modern. I'm very happy with it."

With plans to head south in September, along the Ohio River due to planned maintenance on locks along the Illinois River, they had a deadline for getting the boat handed over, which Back Cove and RCR worked hard to meet.

"RCR did a great job with commissioning," said Mike. "They put the resources to it to turn it around quickly and thoroughly and gave us a lot of attention." Mike and Donna traveled from their home in Ontario to Buffalo in order to participate in the commissioning, practicing docking, driving and learning the systems. While the Hills were practicing out on the water, guys from the yard continued their work on the boat even while under way. "They were non-stop," said Donna. "I couldn't have been happier with RCR. Tim and Don were there checking on us. It's a very clean and tidy yard; a level above other yards. Everyone is friendly and approachable. I feel like a part of the family now, after working with them."

New adventures on a Back Cove - photo © RCR Yachts

Mike also offered kudos to Back Cove for turning out a new boat that was in pretty good shape, with few issues. "After sales is as important as the boat; you're going to have minor issues no matter what the boat," says Mike. As fall transitions into winter, the Hills will keep moving further south, from Nashville where they are currently, to Chattanooga, Mobile and the Florida Panhandle. They have tentative plans to visit the Bahamas in March, before putting the boat in storage next summer and continuing the Loop the following year. The pair, who have circumnavigated and sailed more than 60,000 nautical miles, before spending the last several years land-based, are thrilled to be back on the water. "Every day is different, unexpected and fascinating. I'm learning a lot," says Donna, who is blogging about their travels and the history of various stops along their way.

Mike and Donna - photo © RCR Yachts

New boat buying

Considering a new boat versus a pre-owned version? Mike and Donna, who have purchased several new boats, share some of the advantages and disadvantages. They also offer a list of tips and questions to ask yourself as you decide what type of boat you need to fulfill your plans.

Advantages

• Choose, combine, and install the latest navigation technology
• Choose builder's options: engine makes and horsepower, generators, refrigerators, freezers, washer/dryers, etc.
• Install upgrades while avoiding problems of refitting
• Get the latest in energy-saving appliances: induction stovetops and convection microwave ovens
• Choose hull and upholstery colours
• New builds require less maintenance, and include the latest ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) standards and builder warranties

Disadvantages

• Higher cost
• Longer delivery time

Nine tips for choosing your boat

1. Determine your needs. Do you need a weekend cruiser, two-week vacationer, or passage maker? What speeds will you be comfortable with: trawler speeds or planing cruisers? Will air draft be an issue?

2. Research gas-driven engines versus diesel engines. What maintenance do each require? What are the benefits of each? When purchasing a used boat, it's not always the number of accumulated engine hours to note, but how well the engine has been maintained. Diesel engines love to work hard, and several hours of usage may not be a negative point.

3. Examine living/working spaces. Do you want outdoor seating or an enclosed area for entertaining? Learn the advantages of fly bridges over single, indoor navigation stations. What does a walk-around deck offer? Having no walk-around often offers more indoor space.

4. Check capacities. How much fuel will you need to carry? How many gallons of freshwater and grey water will you need to hold? Learn about battery options and storage capacity.

5. Think about meals. Does the galley need to be functional? Will you be cooking meals? How many will you be feeding?

6. How experienced are you with boating? Learn about navigation systems, electronic chart options, radars and apps such as AIS.

7. Research various makes. Talk to owners, attend boat shows, read reviews, signup for forums, newsletters and discussion groups.

8. Research reputable boat dealers. How long have they been in business? What is their aftersales policy? Acquire a reputable surveyor for pre-owned boats.

9. Research marine yards. Look for clean, tidy boatyards that are staffed with knowledgeable electricians and technicians. Choose a boatyard whose owners and yard managers are visible daily and are friendly and approachable.