Choosing a Boat
Is it sensible to buy a 1970s or 1980s hull?
Yes, provided the repair timetable is visible. The resins of that period were less water-resistant, so moisture is usually a matter of grading rather than a yes-or-no question. Rig, wiring and tanks are also close to their age limits.
Why it works this way
The survey’s job is not to rule the boat out but to set out the next three years of spending in advance — which is what makes an older boat a rational purchase rather than a gamble.
Related services
Serkan Kotel · independent yacht surveyor · IIMS · ABYC · MCA
