Columbia 43 - Any pointers?

[Motley]

I'm thinking about buying a Columbia 43; are there any problems I should look out for? These are all pretty old boats now, they went out of production in'74. I expect there'll be some osmosis but are there other issues specific to the type? And are they good for blue water cruising?

Thanks,

Motley.

[roverhi]

Hearsay only, the reinforcement for the bolt on keel was possibly layers of plywood. Could be prone to rot problems that would be seriously difficult to fix if that is the case. Definitely want a good surveyor to check it out.

[Motley]

Thanks Peter, that's exactly the kind of info I'm after. I'll get it checked.