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Ocean trawlers

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by Kevin K, May 23, 2017.

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  1. Kevin K, May 23, 2017
    #1
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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    Doing some research on the better trawlers Norhavn 63, Bering 65 and fpb 64. Cost seem similar. Without given my slant and opinions on looks, comfort and performance does anyone have opinions they can share. Indeed my wife and I differ so outside opinions would help.

    Thanks kevin
  2. JWY, May 24, 2017
    #2
    JWY

    JWY Senior Member

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    There are some significant differences between the 3 long-range cruisers you mention. Make sure you know the pros and cons of fiberglass, aluminum, and steel and set your preference level accordingly. Big differences in liveability as to layout, interior volume, and space usage. All 3 of these ride and handle differently. If you are considering a new build, be sure to get a comprehensive price list on what is included and what options might not be so optional.

    Judy
  3. PacBlue, May 24, 2017
    #3
    PacBlue

    PacBlue Senior Member

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    If I was in the market for an ocean going trawler and could live with a less than 'yachty' interior but had to have a rugged steel vessel, I would like to give these guys a try: https://www.fredwahlmarine.com/fishing-vessels

    Kind of like when Bruce Kessler had Delta convert their fishing trawler to his tastes for the farmhouse trawler Zopilote., and the trend was set.
  4. Capt Ralph, May 24, 2017
    #4
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    I remember her. Landed on an offshore pinnacle. Her motor fell out, thru the hole in the hull. But the boat was still salvaged.
    Then, Spirit of Zopilote.
    Never heard any thing on either again.
  5. Kevin K, May 24, 2017
    #5
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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    Thanks I believe I will be looking more at the Norhavns this summer. The FPB's are rare and sort of military looking which the wife can't get past even though they look to handle exceptionally well. There are more than a few Norhavns on the market so I can take a little time on this. I looked at a 60 in Fort Lauderdale and I don't like the fly bridge, it seems nothing but a wind catcher.
  6. Kevin K, May 24, 2017
    #6
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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    Those are more commercial than I'm looking at but appreciate the post.
  7. d_meister, May 24, 2017
    #7
    d_meister

    d_meister Senior Member

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    I would go with a vessel that stays upright if the propulsion or stabilizers are lost.
  8. Kevin K, May 24, 2017
    #8
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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    Do you have opinions of such crafts.
  9. PacBlue, May 25, 2017
    #9
    PacBlue

    PacBlue Senior Member

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    This event would be the reason I now favor steel over frp or aluminum for remote destination travel.

    Another one I have come to admire from afar: http://www.realtrawlers.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=32&Itemid=81

    The added bonus - you can make your deliver trip from New Zealand to destination of choice!
  10. d_meister, May 25, 2017
    #10
    d_meister

    d_meister Senior Member

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    Well, I do, but out of deference to this site's advertisers, I won't check that can for worm content. Some models of long range trawlers by maker are less exciting in following or beam seas than others, so it's not fair to tar with a broad brush. I would suggest to your wife that maybe a little lipstick on the fpb 64 might help :) Or, like so many people appear to do with cars; focus on the inside where you will spend your time.
    Otherwise, I have had good experiences with steel vessels, as PacBlue suggests. With a good portable welder aboard, you can effect a 100% effective repair instead of a good sturdy temporary repair. Aluminum is a little more problematical with the requirement of inert gases.
  11. Capt J, May 25, 2017
    #11
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    What kind of cruising are you going to do with the yacht? What locations??
  12. Kevin K, May 27, 2017
    #12
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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    I just followed the Hamilton's as they left Rhode Island 3 weeks ago in their Norhavn 52 and crossed the Atlantic to Kinsale Ireland. 2800 nm and 17 days avg 7 knots. They ran into a couple of lows and dealt with significant wind and waves but for the most part they were happy with the trip. Their 52 is 10+ years old with 9000 hrs and has crossed the Pacific, Indian, south Atlantic and now this so it would lead to confidence in the brand. They had their first mechanical issue during the crossing but had the spare parts to take care of it so shows their good maintenance has served them well. This sounds like a blast even though I believe they took a chance and left a bit early in the season to be that far north.
  13. Capt J, May 27, 2017
    #13
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    So seeing blue water on all 4 sides with nothing to see for days on end and getting bounced around is a blast?
  14. maldwin, May 27, 2017
    #14
    maldwin

    maldwin Senior Member

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    I love the nothing but blue aspect,although I am not as keen on the bouncing around part. Modern forecasting, and a very flexible schedule can smooth out most bumps. I often get a bit anxious to see land after a few days at sea, but can't wait to go back out after a few days ashore.
    On the topic, I am very happy with my Nordhavn 43 FB,and I never thought I would be happy with a new fiberglass production boat. I have always preferred Wood classics, but this boat is making me appreciate both.
    Best,
    Maldwin
  15. Kevin K, May 27, 2017
    #15
    Kevin K

    Kevin K New Member

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  16. GhostriderIII, Jun 14, 2017
    #16
    GhostriderIII

    GhostriderIII Senior Member

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    Bering built a few ships for others and they do a great job. Never liked fibreglas that much with all the containers floating around in the sea lanes. I like Diesel Ducks too. Not very pretty like a Nordhavn, but it'll get you where you want to go without wasting a lot of fuel. Get one with a sailing rig to save even more fuel.