Saffier 6.50 Cruise

Saffier 6.50 Cruise I'm now sailing my MaiNik for the fifth season on the Rursee. It's truly a wonderful boat. Thanks to its heavy fixed keel, it's very safe even in rough conditions. It's not a racing machine, but with a Code O, you can certainly keep up with the H-boats. The electric motor and self-tacking jib make it very easy to sail single-handed. I'm out on the water alone most of the time, and docking and undocking are actually very manageable. The lazy bag and single-line reefing system are very useful. I'm a bit disappointed with the boat's quality; I always had water in the boat and couldn't figure out why. Saffier Yachts' support is rather poor. I eventually found the problem: the bilge pump connector wasn't properly crimped. I repaired it, and the boat is dry. There are probably 10-15 screws loose on the rub rails; I'll have to refill the sealant and replace the screws. I noticed it when the rubbing strake came loose at one end over the winter. It wasn't flush but was resting on top of the other one. I filed it down (shortened it) so it would fit neatly back in. I was able to turn the screw through, so I filled the hole with construction adhesive and screwed the screw back in later. I'll probably have to do that a few more times. Otherwise, I have an Esthec deck covering, which is really easy to care for and highly recommended. You don't need seat cushions because it's so comfortable to sit on. I wanted to trade the boat for a BayCruiser 21 in the spring, as I was hoping for more flexibility for other sailing areas. I also test-sailed the BayCruiser (in light winds) and came to the conclusion that I have the better boat. Hauling it out and raising and lowering the mast is a disadvantage, but sailing this boat makes up for it. I hope I've given you a good impression of my MaiNik.