Gulfstar 53'

[Cargile]

I am looking at a 1975 I ran across on Facebook Marketplace in Apollo Beach FL. Twin Perkins, 2000 hours with a lot of bells and whistles. I spoke with the owner yesterday and will probably have a look on Tuesday. The Ad states it is in Amazing condition. First concern is the boat is 50 years old. But then again I own a '73 28' Cargile Cutter. Mine is in top shape so I guess the Gulfstar could be the same. I do realize there are a few more systems in the Gulfstar than my Cargile Cutter. Any comments about Gulfstar 53s or Gulfstars in general welcomed. Thanks.

 

[slowgoesit]

Condition is King! I wouldn't be too afraid of a 1975 boat, if it punched all the tickets, and was well maintained . . .
said from a guy who already owns a 43 year old boat!

 

[Cargile]

Condition is King! I wouldn't be too afraid of a 1975 boat, if it punched all the tickets, and was well maintained . . .
said from a guy who already owns a 43 year old boat!

Thank you. Later, boat survey and engine survey. Owner said he had a survey done 4 years ago. Obviuously I will want to see it.

 

[Capt Pappy]

Quite certain I recently saw a Youtube video on this vessel -- was rather in depth as well

 

[friz]

Quite certain I recently saw a Youtube video on this vessel -- was rather in depth as well

....and?

 

[friz]

I am looking at a 1975 I ran across on Facebook Marketplace in Apollo Beach FL. Twin Perkins, 2000 hours with a lot of bells and whistles. I spoke with the owner yesterday and will probably have a look on Tuesday. The Ad states it is in Amazing condition. First concern is the boat is 50 years old. But then again I own a '73 28' Cargile Cutter. Mine is in top shape so I guess the Gulfstar could be the same. I do realize there are a few more systems in the Gulfstar than my Cargile Cutter. Any comments about Gulfstar 53s or Gulfstars in general welcomed. Thanks.View attachment 162093

To close this out. Passed. I would have to sell a canal lot we own in Hudson Flroida. I talked to the realtor/seller/friend/neigbor who sold us the lot. She advised not selling at this time. The market is depressed following hurricane Helene last fall. Everyone (us) west of US 41 got whacked. I was not prepared to take a haircut to pay $600/month marina + maintenance + fuel + etc. to own a drop dead, to die for, what dreams are made of boat.

Sorry for any confusion. This is the OP Cargile.... My post appeared a a weekly blurb from Trawler Forum in my email. I responded with the above post. Apparently Trawler Forum used an old account when I did. I did not pay attention. Mia culpa.

 

[Ranger46]

I am looking at a 1975 I ran across on Facebook Marketplace in Apollo Beach FL. Twin Perkins, 2000 hours with a lot of bells and whistles. I spoke with the owner yesterday and will probably have a look on Tuesday. The Ad states it is in Amazing condition. First concern is the boat is 50 years old. But then again I own a '73 28' Cargile Cutter. Mine is in top shape so I guess the Gulfstar could be the same. I do realize there are a few more systems in the Gulfstar than my Cargile Cutter. Any comments about Gulfstar 53s or Gulfstars in general welcomed. Thanks.View attachment 162093

I've had a 1976 43 mk2 for 5 years now. Same engines as yours, twice the hours. The boat is a beast, rock solid and great sea handling characteristics. What i have learned is that it is 50 years old so we have to stay up on all the sealing points...like everyone one else i guess. We have updated most of the beneficial bits like drippless system, chart plotter, and investors. Other then that we just maintain the 30-50 year old systems. Still have the original ac compressors that blow at 40 degrees. Take care of them and they will last a long time.

 

[Capt Pappy]

Ranger46…. Your 43’ sounds more manageable and possible to pass by my gatekeeper if you know what I mean — she’d rather stay under 40’

Did you have any trouble finding insurance for your vessel?

Likely to remain a browser for the next year or two but figure best to learn as much as possible prior taking the plunge

Recently discovered the online car auction sites and could not resist—soon to enter the world of Porsche - albeit the lower end of the world