by DanaDCole on Tue Mar 21, 2023 9:30 am
I built a Pocketship in 2013. Great little boat! But, like an idiot, I decided I wanted something a little bigger and after some research decided on the Malbec 18--great reviews, etc., etc. I even went to Oxnard to test one. Paid $30,000 for it. Have had nothing but trouble ever since. The big problem is that water keeps getting in. The factory owner even came here to Oklahoma from California to try to fix the leaks--mostly around the windows. His work helped some, but I have had more leaks since--pretty sure I have them all fixed now. The Malbec sails very nicely, but not as nicely as the Pocketship in my opinion, and it is very difficult to maneuver in close quarters, even with an outboard. The cabin is quite a bit roomier, you don't have to lie down to put on your pants and it sleeps 4 (if you all love each other), but in fact it is less comfortable. You don't have to sit on the floor, but the roof prevents you from getting comfortable on the seats. So, bottom line, keep your Pocketship! It's a wonderful little boat and I would give anything to have mine back. I'm going to try to sell the Malbec, but I doubt I can get much for it.