SURVEYOR’S REPORT
The Botnia Targa range has carved a distinct niche for itself over the years. The hull form is more moderate than deep-vee but the outdrive powertrain provides that sportsboat feeling. The quality of original build is such that prices have remained high but well cared for examples will remain sought after for years to come. Before you buy make sure that you are happy with the physical challenge of climbing the steep ladder to the flybridge - especially in a seaway.
All that teak decking looks lovely but check to see that it is still well bonded to the substrate and hasn’t worn thin through repeated scrubbing or sanding.
Boats finished in dark blue can also suffer from UV degradation of the gelcoat, depending on their environment. All blue gels tend to bloom over the years. Most of the time, the colour can be brought back with a professional compounding and polish. If not, then painting or vinyl wrapping may need to be budgeted for.
Outdrive sterngear has its advantages but also needs regular ongoing maintenance that simply cannot be ignored. Legs require removal every two seasons, with the ensuing costs of replacing seals, bellows, steering helmets, ram seals, anodes, and trim hydraulics. It is imperative to have these thoroughly checked prior to purchase with careful inspection of all the above followed by a proper sea trial.
Be sure to check the flybridge controls as well. The Volvo EDC and EVC throttles should be silky smooth when operating correctly but can get stiff with time due to salt in the lever bushes. While you’re at it, check the service history prior to purchase, not forgetting heat exchanger cleaning, crankcase breather filters etc. Again, a thorough sea trial will usually highlight potential issues.
Some models are known to have a list to port at certain states of fill due to an offset fuel tank. On some craft this is counter-balanced with a generator fitted to starboard. Trim tabs can also counteract this under way but a good sea trial gives you the opportunity to see how it sits on passage and at rest and lets you see if it will affect your long-term enjoyment of the boat.
Provided you find a good example and like the layout and style, you will be itching to head out to sea when many others wouldn’t. The vessel’s robust nature and quality build will then shine through as you crest those waves at speed.
Chris Olsen, Olsen Marine Surveying
Tel: +44 (0)7971 250105; www.olsenmarine.co.uk