I wanted to get to see Shearwater for multiple reasons but mainly because she looked a really well-kept boat. I also wanted to get a feel for the First 27.7 because although

I’d seen them, I hadn’t actually been on one, so having made this decision that it was to be the new boat one should be sure about things!

My issue was I really don’t like going back to the UK for anything and so how best to do this as Bangor isn’t a place, I actually know anyone that I could spend a little time with. The plan therefore was to literally fly in and out as quickly as possible, so the journey begins.

Basically I flew in to Manchester Thursday evening picked up a car from the airport and headed out for North Wales but around 1pm I stopped in a layby and slept for a couple of hours before starting again arriving too early to get into the boat yard but after finding some breakfast things began to open so I was able to find the boat. I had about an hour before the owner arrived but that was the plan as it gave me enough time to have a good look round at her and I have to say from the outside she looked good! She was quite tucked into the boat park so pictures were not easy.

There were a few noticeable issues but a lot less than I expects for a boat of this age. The normal marks on the gelcoat but the main thing was the Saildrive boot was missing which would need addressing but to be honest not much more.

The owner was a really nice guy and showed me around inside and out without hiding anything and being very open but to be honest there really wasn’t much to admit to, as the boat was in really good order.

Before I made the journey I had made a list of things I needed as well as a list of what I would like and look to put on a boat if it didn’t have. Shearwater I have to say ticked more than just my list the boat to be honest seemed to have everything and isn’t badly priced.

Having had a thorough look round and even taken to where he kept the spares and sails I left thinking hard on an offer. Driving back to the airport where I had a hotel bed and dinner before flying out at 6am for home!