SURVEYOR’S REPORT
These tried and trusted craft, moulded by Winboats in Norfolk, provide a good balance of displacement, heavy-boat feel, but with the ability to reach 19-20 knots in twin-engine form. They make for a comfortable, refined passage-maker, or are equally at home as a spacious weekender.
Construction and build-wise, the Hardys that I have surveyed have been consistently good, with very few significant latent issues that can affect older GRP craft, such as osmosis, delamination, cracking and flexing.
That said there are always things worth checking before you buy:
Make quite sure that the flybridge layout and the route to and from it, especially the stair design and handholds, suits your particular requirements.
Whichever engine option you go for, ensure that the service history is checked and verified, including heat exchanger cleaning. A thorough sea trial is also vital, with an extended run at maximum revs to ensure temperatures remain within specification.
If you opt for a Sabre engined model make sure there is a qualified Sabre engineer local to you, as they are not as ubiquitous as Volvo or Yanmar engineers.
Blue gelcoat often tends to bloom over time. This is not of any structural concern, and can usually be cut and polished back during the spring maintenance regime.
Teak decks and swim platforms may have been scrubbed heavily, so ensure that there is plenty of useful life remaining. If a synthetic teak has been fitted, it’s also a good idea to check that the sub-base has been prepared professionally, and all the material is still well bonded to the substrate.
A sound, well-maintained example of this vessel will provide you with a classic and typically British motor boat, which combines good original build quality with timeless lines that will not age with fad or fashion.
Chris Olsen, Olsen Marine Surveying
Tel: +44 (0)7971 250105; www.olsenmarine.co.uk