Buying an Old Cat

[leftbrainstuff]

Originally Posted by KCee

I have searched this forum but not found the answer --- I am currently looking at two catamarans, both $20,000, both from 1970's -- one Iroquois and one Catalac. Both owners say "ready to sail away"... one owner has fessed to what he thinks will need to be done in the next 3 years.... I guess it would be wise to insist on surveys, although --- I read one survey for another boat I was looking at, and the survey, professionally done, looked more like an inventory list to me -- -the notes were pretty vague.. is that what one gets with a survey? Can anyone offer me any tips before I take the plunge... I am a handy (wo)man, so little things won't bother me... thanks...

You will need to shop around for a good surveyor. There are many who either cut and paste or provide little of value.

Ask to see recent surveys they've done. A good survey should provide the following:

1) list the configuration of the vessel
2) list the equipment included, its condition and configuration
3) describe visible or known defects
4) give some history or provenance of the particular vessel
5) should allow you to make an informed decision whether to proceed or not

A good survey will tell a story in both pictures and words.

You also need to do your own research on the vessel type. That way you can ask the right questions.

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