I'm looking to buy a Merlin for doing club racing.  Hoping to be sailing it on Southport Marine Lake so, going to be restricted waters and lots of taking.  Crew weight is looking to be in the 26-27 stone bracket and looking to spend up to £1500.  I've sent emails out to all the potential boats that i've found, looking at Smokers, NSM's etc.

Basically i'm after suggestions of hull shapes and any possible heads up on boats that are out there and are or may be for sale.  Preferably in the north / midlands but i'm willing to travel to find the right boat.

Thanks

One comment having sailed the 24 hour race at Southport in b** GPs, the lake is very shallow in part and you may well need a short centreboard.

When I first acquired 1620, in the early 70's, we sailed in Southport Marine lake & bumped on the bottom. On the plus side, when we then sank without any bouyancy bags we just walked the boat to the side.

3335 bullet would be good and only down the road at Elton . Carries weight and good inland / tacking boat . Should be beautiful if well looked after .

I have an Aln-built September Girl nearly ready for sale following a re-varnish and service. 

Well looked after with lovely lines, tacks smartly and points well but a little underpowered with me and crew - 29 stone lardies (together!). Perhaps a bit light for you too? Boat always dry-stored, currently residing near Hereford. Give me a call evenings after 8pm if you would like to know more. Also a Rowsell and Morrison NSM2 possibly for sale...