Ben, Have you given any thought to the Fountaine Pajot Cumberland 44? At the Annapolis show, I met the new owner, Spencer Joyner, who had just taken delivery of the display boat. He was very impressed with the speed having cruised it down from NJ to MD. As a former sailor he found it "almost scary" at times, but he said the ride was incredibly smooth -- and quiet. Admittedly with a light load, they saw speeds to 28 knots and cruised comfortably at 24 knots -- quite impressive for a 30,000-lb boat, I'd say. (I believe he had 310-hp Cummins engines). In case you'd like a trial run, his boat, Maestro is currently available for charter through CYOA in St Thomas, USVI -- http://www.cyoacharters.com/cumberland443/index.asp . Unfortunately, high-season rates are now in effect (until May) at a mere $9,400/wk -- might include a captain, I'm not sure. It's a bit too pricey for me, but it appears to be a classy well-built, comfortable boat with excellent inside and outside helm positions. Happy hunting, Henry .............................................................................. ....................................... Henry M. Clews Hanover, New Hampshire 03755 USA _ http://www.geocities.com/snodoglog/_ (http://www.geocities.com/snodoglog/) .............................................................................. ....................................... In a message dated 12/10/2005 2:20:56 PM Eastern Standard Time, keysmark@bellsouth.net writes: Bert, Thank you very much for you response. We are looking for a boat we can take extended cruises in, but which can also move along faster than a "pure" cruising boat or trawler. This boat seems to have a good combination of the two elements. Ben