SURVEYOR’S REPORT

Boston Whaler builds boats with positive buoyancy that stay upright and afloat even when flooded. The peace of mind this gives should not be underestimated.

The quality of build is also exceptionally good, and as these craft are sought after, prices should remain high for a well-kept example.

Points to note when considering buying:

■ Ensure the foam between the hulls is dry and not subject to water ingress from impact or poor repairs. If water has soaked into the foam, any heavy pounding in a seaway will ‘hydraulic’ the GRP, as it can not compress. This results in stress-cracking to the inner hull. Make sure the hull is carefully checked for moisture by an experienced surveyor familiar with foam-injected boats.

■ On deck, check carefully around the hard top flanged mounts for cracking due to unsympathetic use.

■ Inspect thoroughly all around the transom mount and the corners where the hull meets the transom. Vertical crazing would be evident in the radii if the boat has been driven excessively hard in heavy seas.

■ Check the engine service history, ensuring all scheduled works have been carried out, including anode changes, oil, seals and so on.

■ Ensure that the fuel system has been scrupulously maintained and the fuel in the tank is fresh. Check when the filters/separators were last changed.

These are robust and powerful fast sports/cruising boats. Provided you find a good example, it should prove a sound boat, which will stand the test of time. Chris Olsen, Olsen Marine Surveying

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