Looking to import a boat like this

[umblecumbuz]

I've already successfully imported a Boston Whaler from Florida, which is proving a great work boat.<br /><br />Now I want to track down an inboard diesel-powered Whaler. It doesn't have to be exactly like this, but must have sleeping for two with basic facilities, and preferably be over 25ft.<br /> http://photobucket.com/albums/v212/umblecumbuz/?action=view&current=DieselWhaler.jpg <br />I'm finding it hard to locate one, so any tips on which magazines, websites, etc to search would be real helpful.<br /><br />Thanks fella's.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Unless you are looking for a new boat or stock diesel, you can repower a gas boat like that with a diesel engine. Don’t overlook Italy as a source for quality marine vessels. Fwiw, the US rates 4th for recreational boats, per capita, 1 boat for every 16 people.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Thanks Rabbit,<br /><br />I'm looking for a used boat. It has to be a Whaler, and diesel-powered. Not too many of those about.<br />Rarer than hens teeth in Italy!<br />I'm familiar with the procedures for getting a boat out of US and into Malta - but it's finding the right boat that's the big trick.

 

[stevens]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Stillfishing - if you could find two of those, I'd take the other one!<br /><br />But seriously, I just came back from a week in Menorca, which shouldn't be too unlike your Maltese waters. We were taken on a few trips in a 21' Sessa WA with a 210 hp inboard, and this worked really well in those big swells and wakes. However, I think your specification for your next boat makes perfect sense.<br /><br />I've been looking around for your type of boat myself, but don't think they exist. You (/we) will probably have to change the inboard gas engine to a diesel one, or bite the bullet and go with an outboard.<br /><br />The good thing about changing the engine is that you could possibly buy the boat cheaper if the gas engine is defective.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Dang! I'm heading for Menorca in six weeks. I'm going there for several reasons:<br /><br />1.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Hi Stevens,<br /><br />Dang! I'm heading for Menorca in a few weeks! Where did you stay? We need accomodation for our visit.<br /><br />I'm going there to look for a house (we intend to relocate eventually), to see a boat like the one above (I've found a similar one in France, across the water), and to look for a dealer there to promote our business.<br /><br />That Whaler had twin diesels, which is ideal for my use. Very rare.

 

[stevens]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Stayed at an old friend's house in Binisafüller, a quiet residential area about 15 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from Mahon. It's on the south coast, with a pool, a diving/boating centre just below, and a beachside bar/restaurant that was very popular with the locals.<br /><br />He and his many friends have great houses in that area that they also let out when they are not there themselves. I'd be happy to put you in touch if you'd like, or you can look at this website: www.binisafua.com . We stayed at the Villa del Isla. The same people might also be able to help you out with local business contacts. What type of business are you in?<br /><br />Excuse me for my ignorance, but why would you want to relocate from Malta to Menorca? Poor climate in the winter, higher prices on everything, less people, etc.<br /><br />Finding a Menorcan house will not be a problem. The whole island seems for sale, but at hefty prices.<br /><br />I fell for this one property in particular, directly on the beach in splendid isolation inside the Es Grau nature reserve. No roads, no electricity, no water, no waste water, no neighbours, just beatiful nature on a shallow and very sheltered sandy beach. The fishing village is on the other side of the bay. A complete fix'er-upper for someone with sufficiently deep pockets (i.e. not me), and with a love for the ocean.<br /><br />The Whaler with twin diesels must be very rare indeed. Best of luck in finding one. Why not consider a Karnic as well? For example this: http://www.karnicboats.com/model_2650_2660.php They seem to be great, seaworthy boats with a 10 year hull warranty, and must be cheaper where you are.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Hi Stevens,<br /><br />Thanks for the info about Menorca. Life's full of funny coincidences, isn't it?<br /><br />I browsed the properties website and it looks good. Booking soon, but not sure where yet - just waiting for a few more replies before I do.<br /><br />I help run a marine accessory business, and we're just launching into Europe an auto trim tab system known as Trimpilot - simple and inexpensive. Family reasons dovetail with this, so we need to be nearer France/Spain.<br /><br />I was a builder in my younger years before I 'retired', so one thing I'll be searching for on Menorca is an old property in need of work.<br /><br />Don't see Karnics round here - they're rarer than Whalers. Malta floats on boats, but I've only found three Whalers in all of Malta, and I've got one of them. No diesels, which is my priority. When I relocate, I'll need to head for both Spain and France regularly - hence the need for a boat like the one above.<br /><br />If you've got any other useful info on Menorca, I'll be glad to have it. Haven't been there for many years.

 

[stevens]

Re: Looking to import a boat like this

Apparently, more coincidences than you'd think. <br /><br />Karnics are made in Cyprus, and the local boating press up here in Norway has given them very high marks, indeed comparing them to Whalers in terms of build quality and seaworthiness. Several of the models come with single or twin diesel inboards, and otherwise seem to be good value for money.<br /><br />Another good alternative seems to be White Shark, but they also seem to currently only make boats for outboard engines.<br /><br />Oh, do you remember this one? It has an inboard, and at that price you wouldn't need to save on the fuel.<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/marine_classifieds/adv-search.cgi?id=73835-ad