Relaunching a wooden yacht after years on the hard

[bpbpbp]

I've read the varying opinions on wooden boats, and the consensus seems to be:

- if it's in good condition, it's manageable to maintain.
- don't keep it in freshwater for long, at least without salting the bilges.
- don't dry it for long.

Now, this vessel has caught my eye: https://www.apolloduck.co.uk/boat/sa...or-sale/744861

It has no engine, but for the price of a new one plus the low purchase price, it's still not a bad price and I have a new engine to enjoy.

The issue that concerns me is that it has been out of the water for 7 years.

Is it really that big a deal?

[skipperpete]

Originally Posted by bpbpbp

I've read the varying opinions on wooden boats, and the consensus seems to be:

- if it's in good condition, it's manageable to maintain.
- don't keep it in freshwater for long, at least without salting the bilges.
- don't dry it for long.

Now, this vessel has caught my eye: https://www.apolloduck.co.uk/boat/sa...or-sale/744861

It has no engine, but for the price of a new one plus the low purchase price, it's still not a bad price and I have a new engine to enjoy.

The issue that concerns me is that it has been out of the water for 7 years.

Is it really that big a deal?

Yes, its a very big deal even in the UK climate. Buying a beautiful timber yacht… and timber mast… is a risky proposition reflected to some extent by the asking price. You may well be a skilled woodworker able to repair and maintain a timber hull in which case, yes its a potential bargain but if you’re not the guy with those skills and new to boating I would emphatically suggest that you not proceed with this purchase.

[Jim Cate]

Another worrisome item is the fiberglass sheathing below the WL. This is sometimes a real detriment and would need some expert evaluation before purchase. Also need to know omething about her construction, ie is she conventional caulked planking, splined or edge glued, what timbers were used and has she been covered whilst on the hard (to keep rain water out)? And are the photos current or from when she was first put ashore?

But pretty lines...

Jim

Jim

[Fore and Aft]

Bpbpbp no mention of it being refastened, so 59-year-old fastenings are definitely a concern. Most timber boats I know only get fiberglassed below the waterline when the leaks are too much for the bilge pump and it's a last-ditch cheapish effort to get a few more years out of the hull......
If you like the woody look, I am sure there is a fiberglass yacht out there you could buy and put a fake timber wrap on it. Way less maintenance.
Cheers

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by Jim Cate

... And are the photos current or from when she was first put ashore?
But pretty lines...
Jim

2020 arriving Suffolk yacht harbour

[bpbpbp]

Thanks everyone! I learnt a lot from your responses and will resist the urge!!

The wrap is neat, I've only seen that one autos.