SURVEYOR’S REPORT

Nimbus’s take on the Commuter-style sportsboat makes for very a distinctive looking craft with a cut-off stem, twinstepped hull and wide planing aft sections. It’s rated Cat C for up to 8 people – inshore and coastal waters, up to Force 6, and comes with a choice of outboards up to 350hp. A manually operated glass roof or open canvas top, with safe walk-around decks, high gunwales and multiple handholds are all hallmarks of this boat and help provide a reassuring feel for all on board. The quality of the original build is high. Vinylester resins used for the hull mouldings, fully lined cockpit locker lids and quality original equipment and systems should ensure good longevity and high resale values if maintained well.

Points to note when considering buying:

■ Given the likelihood of this boat being used and driven hard, check all radii for stress cracking around corners and edges of window rebates and sunroof.

■ Inspect and hammer-sound the high stress sections of the hull where it lands after take-off.

■ Check transom areas thoroughly for evidence of crazing around outboard mounts and transom ends.

■ Look for excessive corrosion to fuel filters and housings under the deck area aft. These areas are often forgotten.

■ Ensure that machinery has been correctly serviced. Look for diagnostics from the servicing agents. Pay particular attention to ensuring that engine anodes have been replaced scrupulously.

■ When testing, ensure that throttle and gear linkage are silky smooth.

Chris Olsen MIIMS, Olsen Marine Surveying

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