Quote:
Originally Posted by Johnathon123
I have been looking at boats for a long time.
In the space of a week two options have appeared that fit the bill (from the photos and chats with the owners)
One is a classic design (1960's) , lots of varnish, wood etc. Hull, deck, and exterior all professionally restored. The interior needs a spruce up.
The second is a 1980's timber boat. Very well looked after and in great nick.
I am a little bit unusual in that I can't really sail either because of an injury that is a long term pain in the kiester! I am led to believe that this will not change.
Despite the injury I need a boat just to have, to fiddle and to be on the water.
The classic is really appealing to me. I know it is insane, and I know the horror of the old timber boat but it would be a project internally. As my wife says with plenty of fiddlesticking.
The more modern 80's boat would still have plenty of things to do with but not nearly as much.
My heart says buy the old girl, but my brain says don't be a fool you don't need the headache etc etc etc.
What would you do.
BTW. If you happen to guess which boats I am talking about please don't post a link I have been gazumpped more times than I care to think that way, just PM me the link
Thanks
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Yes you're insane. My dad always said if it flies, floats or fornicates it is always better to rent it.
However, now that you are insane and can admit it, you don't have to act rationally.
Only you know your mobility to take care of the constant attention wood boats require. Based on the tiny bit of information supplied I would say go for it with a couple of caveats...
- you cant sail. Make sure the boat has a good
motor. A sailboat is an efficient hull and even motoring is fun. An
autopilot is useful too. Motoring can be a lot if fun when you aren't painting and varnishing. Also just hanging at the
dock chatting with dockmates is fun too.
- Be realistic on total costs. Marina
fees, maintenance
fees, upkeep fees, haulouts, anti foul etc. Consider including the cost to have someone dive on the boat every 8 weeks or so to scrub the bottom - this is a real convenience. If you can afford all that why not?
- Consider wood very carefully. GRP with lots of wood trim may be a better option depending on your mobility
- easy to get on and off is another consideration depending on your mobility
And finally the good news. The boat will make you more insane but eventually it will become too much and you will sell it, thereby curing your insanity. So in a way the boat is therapeutic and way more satisfying than paying a shrink.