Sold my Connie

[bobbystone]

After about 15 years, I finally sold my 1958 48' Constellation. That thing they say about "the day you sell your boat being the second happiest day" is a crock! I feel like I lost my best dog. The new owner is a good friend and will take good care of her, and you guys will probably see him on here soon enough. But I wanted to reach out and say "THANK YOU" to all the members for all the help, advice and encouragement I've received from this board over the years. You guys are truly a font of knowledge, and incredibly generous. Thanks a million!

Bobby Stone

[RRGadow]

Why did you sell it?

[jfrprops]

Well, Ryan and others, I guess the gentleman sold it because it was just time....and time will rule over us all.

I too am facing a crisis of conscience and will......what does an aging man do with his aging cruiser?

The dog loss analogy is the one I use all the time....how can you get rid of your old dog....your faithful companion....

?

I am going to fight on....but I totally respect those who call a truce and step out......I totally agree with and understand the feelings expressed by bobbystone..... seeing your baby go to a good home is crucial .....wish I could find such an individual.

Going boating....after extensive repairs......!!!

John in Va.

[tkhersom]

Bobby Stone: We hope you hang around and chat with us even though you did have to let her go. If you choose to leave us you will be missed.

What about a smaller boat?

[ClassOf56]

Hopefully he is a good enough friend that you will still get visiting rights...

Besides, I am sure he will have a million questions over the next few years, and you will be called in as the consultant!

[jfrprops]

I guess I may not be the only one that feels this way.....but if I sold or gave away my old cruiser....I don't think I would ever want to lay eyes on her again....just couldn't hardly stand it.....weird I guess....but that day approaches....

John in va.

[tkhersom]

John: You are full of it! You have many years left in you.

Do you want some cheese with that whine?

[BrokenRule2]

I felt the same way when I sold mine only to feel the tug to get anther one. Weeks after I would think of what was needed to remember it was gone. Perhaps he will be back with something manageable???

[jfrprops]

Troy,

Keeping leaning on me Troy! I have determined to make the all out effort and support of the group will be crucial....

Only whine on my boat is the paragons.....but that is another day/story!!!

John in Va.

[bobbystone]

I'll still be lurking! It was just time. Decided to get something I could do some traveling in with less worry!

[Al Benton]

Well, Bobby, I know the feeling all too well, having found a new care taker for our baby Connie (1960, 27'). We built some great memories cruising The Mississippi in her for several years. Of course, we spent our fair share of time maintaining her in home port too. But, of course, it all added up to developing a very close connection with that beautiful chunk of lovin' mahogany.

I see her from the Alton bridge occasionally (and she looks great) but have not gone to the marina where she now resides. She's obviously in good hands. The new care-taker and his lovely wife live 5 minutes from the marina and thoroughly enjoy having her close to home. They have invited us to visit with them, and her, but so far I cant bring myself to take them up on their offers; best to move on, knowing that she has developed a wonderful connection with her new family.

Holy Cow! How's that for a sob story (but true). Pass the tissues please.

[jfrprops]

Well Al, I understand completely......this weekend I made the big move...faced up to my age and downsized to a true glassic, I bought a 1980 Fairchild Scout 30....reproduction of a 1930's elco...a beautiful pocket trawler with dream world access to all systems! Now I must get rid of my 1966 Chris Craft cavalier seastrake.....some of us are working up a solution: namely the "free to a good home cruiser essay contest".......in 25 words or less tell me why you walk the walk and talk the talk and want this classic cruiser and she is your's.....free. You pay transport .....tons of spare parts also...... More to follow on t his plan....will post soon.

condition one: get her out of my sight.....can't bear to see her......needed to move on......twenty one years of devotion and stewardship.....tough call.....right call.

John in Va.

[BrokenRule2]

The talk of giving the boat away and being too old is not helpful to the hobby... Make up a story that some one offer you more than you thought is was worth and you could not pass it up.

In most cases, like mine, it would only take a six pack of good Belgium beer!

[jfrprops]

naw it is not age it is just time.....there is guy in his mid eighties at our marina that just had brand new 250 hp mercs put on his grady white......age is not factor......it is just time.....
I don't drink but if that six pack offer applies....you can have the boat and I will pass along the suds
John in Va.

[BrokenRule2]

I'll have to pass, one free boat per month is my limit

[Al Benton]

I can't say for a fact that age didn't have anything to do with my decision. I'm only 73 and feel that I could still keep up with most 50 year old guys, but! The time had come to start thinking about finding someone to take the helm. That opportunity actually came to me upon returning from Tavares, FL a couple or three years ago. I drove out to check on her and found a note on the helm from a secret admirer. The note said "I have admired your Chris-Craft on the river for years. When you're ready to sell her, call", I did.

I certainly wouldn't discourage anyone at any age from taking on the responsibility of keeping an old wooden cruiser afloat, especially a Chris-Craft, as long as they know what they are getting into. If they are willing and able, and have the resources, by all means, do it.