SURVEYOR’S REPORT

The Bavaria Sport powerboat range has steadily built itself a good reputation for value for money and fast and efficient cruising. I have surveyed several of these over the years, and have found few areas of recurring concern due to build issues.

With this current generation of the range, efforts have been made to upgrade fittings, finish and general feel of the boat. In this respect, the results I have seen are good.

Bavaria’s ‘Vacutec’ vacuum-infusion build method provides consistent quality of lay-up, but also reduces weight compared to hand laid construction by 20%. Isophthalic resins are used, in line with most quality builders, to provide superior resistance to moisture ingress over the years. The hull form on these craft is medium vee, and the outdrive powertrain provides good initial acceleration but also a feeling of grip and security on the water – even in a chop. However, outdrive sterngear also has significant ongoing maintenance costs that 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 and proof of when they were last serviced.

Other points to note when considering buying include a careful inspection of the sunroof assembly. This is a big selling point of the boat so ensure all the guides are clear and that the unit slides efficiently over several operations.

Hull cleanliness makes a significant impact on any boat’s performance but as this is a sportscruiser you will want to maximise speed and fuel efficiency. Consider a mid-season lift out for a hull scrub and anode check. This should pay for itself in saved fuel consumption costs

Check the machinery service history and insist on a thorough sea trial with your surveyor. Heat exchanger cleaning regimes are often forgotten and a thorough sea trial should detect any overheating issues.

Find yourself a good 36HT and it should prove to be a fun and enjoyable cruising boat that is small enough to handle as a couple but large enough to explore further afield with the family or host larger parties for day trips. Look after her, and she should also be an easy sale when it’s time to move on.

Chris Olsen, Olsen Marine Surveying

Tel: +44 (0)7971 250105; www.olsenmarine.co.uk