George Buehler believes we should be driving trollers, not trawlers, while exploring the waters of the world. Enjoying an easygoing life, Buehler designs boats that fit that bill in a studio hidden in the thick, dark woods of Whidbey Island, Washington, many miles from the sea.
Ireally struck a nerve with my Project X concept of an affordable passagemaker (see "Project X" PMM April '04). The response from PMM readership has been overwhelming, all supporting the idea of a boat that can be comfortably cruised long distances, yet remain within the financial abilities of a couple without a trust fund. Most readers who shared their own plans report that they although don't ultimately intend to circle the planet, they believe the characteristics of a boat capable of such a trip would be a darn nice liveaboard cruiser on a smaller scale.