Hello folks, I’ve searched through and read a lot of forum posts, but I want to get a bit more specific on a couple of questions. We are thinking of upsizing a few feet and doing some cruising in the Bahamas in the winter months. We currently have a 40 footer which is great, but just want a little more room if it’s going to be the winter condo. We like the pilot house style, so in the 50 foot range with a maximum boat per dollar analysis, there are a few choices - the 530 Voyager, the Bayliner 52’s, and the Navigator. We don’t need to get into the ‘offshore’ discussion, because as far as I’m concerned, the Bahamas is coastal cruising if you are minding your weather windows. I’ve crossed the Gulf Stream from FL to Nassau 6 times, sometimes we’ve waited 2 weeks for the right window, but we’re patient.

Anyway, there seem to be many 530’s for sale, with huge price variances and states of repair. Of course according to the brokers commentary they are all ‘ready to go’ LOL. Sorry, don’t mean to be cynical in my old age! I was hoping those of you with Voyagers or other larger Carvers wouldn’t mind chiming in and mentioning the goods and bads and things I should watch for. I have always had Cummins, but it seems the 2000+ 530’s usually have the Volvo options. I don’t seem to hear good rumours about Volvo, but in real life they are just a diesel, any major issues any of you have had with the TAMD75’s?

If you want to pass on any info about the 530’s on Yachtworld, please shoot me a PM. We’re looking anywhere on the east coast, or eastern 1/3 of the US as long as there is salt water access.

Look forward to chatting! Fair winds and following seas,
Mark

Currently boating in the PacNW, but need more winter warmth!