Classic cruiser recommendations

[Rosepetal]

We are looking at getting our first boat but the newer boats within our budget just seem too small. We are interested in looking at something a bit older that’s mechanically and structurally sound and updating it (we have done this many times with houses) and we have vision and mechanical and electrical skills and we enjoy a project. We looked at the Princess 30DS but maybe something a bit bigger? I personally don’t like flybridges, I prefer a sunroof! Budget around £35k and the layout of the Princess 30DS works for us although a second cabin would be nice. Must be diesel and on shafts and an exterior that doesn’t look like a trawler/fishing boat and isn’t too dated would be nice. Any recommendations please?

 

[Seastoke]

Broom ocean 37

 

[oldgit]

The Princes 30DS represents a good mix of modernity around 30K.
Try to go for the biggest twin engine option version you can find.
We have a 30DS in our club with apair of 165 HP Volvos which has been down to the " MED" and up to the Baltic.
Going larger will either mean older and slower ie. the Broom with its very traditional interior or a serious hike in budget.
Worth searching the Thames brokers as the low bridges tend to produce a good choice of non flybridge boats compared to coastal locations.
Avoid if at all possible the 80HP twins if you are looking for more than 10 knots.
At the moment if you find a boat you like, grab it, the market has gone a bit nuts.

 

[Dino]

Broom Ocean 37, Continental or European
Princess 37 - there’s a lovely non-flybridge one for sale in Northern Ireland
Freeman 33 Sedan

 

[Rosepetal]

I quite like the Princess 30DS, it ticks a lot of boxes. There are quite a few different engine options but I am only interested in diesels. Does anyone know the cruising and max speeds for the different diesel single/twin options please?

 

[ashtead]

I suspect the speeds might be dependent on the vessel the diesel sits in . Are you looking for info on the Princess for example as an owners forum might give greatest insight for a particular make .