Hi Dave it would be interesting if you could compare impeller bow thrusters to retracting thrusters. Then theres also the lesser known but also doing the same job, water jet nozels. .. which are easier and quicker to retro fit, cause less drag and as far as i can see are safer in terms of avoiding leaks in the event of a collision and easier to service. 👍🏼🧙🏼♂️
Thank you for another very interesting review, Dave. Is the sense of space and size noticeably bigger and more roomy then the 526 mk II ? Or much the same?
Hi Richard. You just can’t tell till you are on board. But my guess is that the saloon will feel much bigger due to the longitudinal galley layout. I’ll bet that the hulls don’t feel much different as they kept them slim.
Hey hey. I’m the owner of hull 2 of the Balance 580. And also own a 526. I’ve been blown away at how bigger the 580 is, it’s almost 2 the volume. The main sail is 33% bigger than the 526. I’ve spent a lot of time at the factory and can’t wait to get her in the water! The mast is a bit more forward than the 526, which provides almost 10 more ft depth on the saloon. Stay tuned.
I like Balance - and the argument in favor of how the main is rigged (always in a prevented state as Phil puts it...) Then I watched one of youngbarnacles vids sailing a gunboat - they made the argument this setup is not ideal if you need to dump the main in a hurry...TOO many factors to consider...LOL
Because we are just a couple I would lean to 3 and take the extra space. Having said that, this is a very customizable model so I might just even go 2 cabin with the 3rd aft cabin converted to a flex space for an office or utility room that could be used as a bunk in a pinch.
We went with the 4 cabin vs of the 580 but with a few modifications. Starboard aft cabin turns into a very spacious office and we designed a jack n jill dual head but shared shower on guest side. Which allows for a 18ft forward workshop / toy storage on starboard bow.
Weight is the most important factor for a cat. You're trading stability for speed with as opposed to monohull. I don't understand why you would consider a fat heavy cat with a fly bridge, you've got less stability and it sails like a dog
Hi Vandijk. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I’m a little confused though. Which of the three new comparables are you referring to? I don’t believe any have a fly. Perhaps you are looking at the pre-owned comparables? I play a little fast and loose in that section at times. lol. Thanks again for watching.
The Exquisite Solar sail has a fly lounge, that looks like it can be used under sail. and the weight is heavy as you show. It is an odd choice IMHO to include.
The wonderful thing about having a RU-vid channel is the access that I have to real life experience like yours. Thanks for taking the time to share. I appreciate it! D
