First-time boat owner

[boat-lady]

I am considering purchasing a 1971 carver monterey. The hull needs repainting and the cabin housing needs to have the wood replaced because some of it is rotting. It also needs a new water pump for the head. The two engines were rebuilt two years ago and according to the owner have approx. 25 hours on them. The boat has been sitting in the yard for the pass year.<br /><br />Any helpful tips or sugestions.

 

[JB]

Re: First-time boat owner

FIRST time boat owner??? Forget it. Get a new boat, even if it's a dinghy.<br /><br />JB

 

[Evinrude Boy]

Re: First-time boat owner

I agree<br /><br />------------------<br />Jess

 

[page62]

Re: First-time boat owner

These guys are right, but you're probably wondering why. I can sum it up in 2 words: MONEY PIT. <br /><br />The boat is 30 years old! You have no idea what wonderful surprises it has in store for you -- and boat parts & repairs are expensive. You would definitely be better off with a new or almost-new boat, even if it's much less boat than the Carver.

 

[MarkC]

Re: First-time boat owner

If you are into doing it yourself, a very old boat can be a rewarding hobby. You need to have your eyes open going into a project like this, and to count on a surprise or two along the way. I recently restored a '69 Glastron and its 120 Mercruiser, and I'm glad I did. But I've heard plenty of folks who got an old boat "really cheap" and wished they hadn't.<br /><br />The book "Runabout Renovation" by Jim Anderson is a good first step (BEFORE buying a boat). It explains how to spot the really big problems, and how to fix the manageable ones. The folks here and at boatdoctor.com are great resources about engines.<br /><br />If the cabin wood is rotting, I'd worry about the floor and transom (both fixable, but not easy).

 

[kevlar3000]

Re: First-time boat owner

Classic boats are a true joy, but if you are inexperienced it can be a nightmare. A big cabin cruiser with rot can be a HUGE problem. I would have an inspection done by a qualified pro. My friend bought a 72 Chriscraft 32 ft with twin 350 Chev. He loves it, it is a strong boat, but just owning the thing is a fortune. From slip costs, to winterizing , to gas. and on and on... Make sure you have the real resources to enjoy what is a true passion for many. Don't jump at the first boat if you have any hesitations.... If it were me I would not mess around with rot on a boat that size. There are good ones out there, but with 30 year old boats ( I have one ) there are many more that aren't fit to float.<br /><br />Good Luck!!

 

[Down South]

Re: First-time boat owner

I agree with the rest of the crowd here. Forget it and buy a new boat or at least a newer one. These guys are right about the problems and $$$COST$$$$ of parts and repairs. Plus you will want something you can depend on to get you back home.<br />