Boat Search Advice for newbee

[Sprocket]

Sorry if I am posting here - as I tried to post in Boat Search 101 but could only see how to reply? And it was suggested I start a new thread

Hi Everyone,

My husband and I are looking at doing the loop in '18. We will be switching from sail to power. Our dream is an American or Nordic Tug but the prices might be too high for our comfort level.

So, we have done endless boat searches on Yachtworld.....we are looking for a trawler/tug style boat in the 34-36 foot range - we do not want a v-berth (had enough of that with our sailboat). We are uncertain about a flybridge and would like a full fridge (although hubby can make modifications for this after purchase).

We are Canadian so we have to keep that in mind as exchange for us right now is 30% + so in the 100,000 US range would be ok...

Have checked out all the usual suspects, Grand Banks, CHB, Marine Trader, Mainship (great but too much money).

Older doesn't scare us as we love the wood and hubby is a mechanic.

So....all boat model suggestions are welcome

 

[Alaskan Sea-Duction]

Sounds like you have a good start by looking at boat porn (Yacht World). But you and your husband need to make a list. What are the things you want on a boat. Then divide that up into "must have" and "want to have." i.e. Cockpit. My wife would not accept a boat without a cockpit. A no-go for me was teak on the walk ways. It took us 3 years to find the right boat and I knew every boat on the west coast that fell into our list.


So make your list, visit boat shows, actually contact brokers and get tours of boats so you can judge what's out there and of course keep using boat porn.


Once you decide on a boat, have a hull and engine surveys done. You pay for the survey, but it will get you an honest condition of the boat. May I suggest you hire your own surveyors and not rely on the one the broker recommends.


Now this is important: HAVE FUN WITH YOUR SEARCH! Good luck-ASD

 

[CPseudonym]

Welcome, a week long charter of a boat roughly similar to what your budget can afford can potentially save a lot of searching. For instance, if you charter a sundeck model and discover after a week you would rather have fewer stairs...

Enjoy the hunt

 

[David Rive]

Hi Sprocket. Welcome to the Forum!


You might want to look at my boat, just listed for sale. She is here 1985 Ocean Alexander 38 Double Cabin Power Boat For Sale - www.yachtworld.com


I live in Markham and the boat is in Whitby. You should come and see her. If you want to chat I can give you my phone #.


Cheers,


David

 

[Sprocket]

Thanks David - that is a beautiful boat and it hits some of our must-haves...I will show it to my hubby.

 

[DHeckrotte]

Some basic decisions/filters may reduce the amount of online shopping you have to do:

Centerline forward berth probably cuts 1/3 of the older boats.
Number of engines: two or one w/bow thruster?
Do you want the second, aft cabin and second head or do you want a back porch (some call it a cockpit)?
Are you getting doddery enough to appreciate side decks and railings/bulwarks in lieu of more space inside?
Can you get from end to end of the boat readily? (Must be tougher on a 'sundeck' or 'motor yacht' layout.)
How much will you tolerate always going from level to level?
How much varnishing do you want to do?
How important is the interior finish to you? Teak and holly sole, or parquet, carpet or paint? Taste in interior trim details; some folks like all that spindle-work?
Galley up or down?
Fixed/built-in seating and dining spaces?

$100k US means you're really looking at, perhaps, getting the agreed price down to $85k. Think of all the toys you really want to have/add.

Go look at some boats!

 

[bayview]

yacht world will not replace climbing around on boats. look at lots of boats to find what fits your lifestyle. from pictures you will never find out if your head bumps when you sit up in bed.

 

[boatpoker]

Welcome Cambridge ! I lived just up the road in Elora for years and played tennis and golf in Cambridge. We are currently at the top of The Chesapeake on the way south but take a look at Marine Survey 101, it may give you some ideas on how to inspect a boat before paying a surveyor.

 

[Alaskan Sea-Duction]

look at Marine Survey 101, it may give you some ideas on how to inspect a boat before paying a surveyor.

+100%

 

[Sprocket]

Thanks Boatpoker, you actually surveyed a boat for us about five years ago
Love your current boat and the remodel!