CLOUD9
Well-Known Member
This is my first post on the Classic and wooden boats forum. I do turn up from time to time on the 'Motor Boats'. After a season of poor weather we have decided to take our boat (a 2007 Princess 58 flybridge) to the mediterranean. We are excited about this.... but.... I think I might need to maintain a boating interest in the UK.
So, I have been thinking about a weekender of 25-30ft. The budget set at a sensible level. Searching some of the ads online it did occur to me that now might be the time to go with my heart and find something classic. I have been brought up around motor boats, and in the 1980's loved my fathers Cox and Haswell 35ft Pegasus. Further back still we owned a Force 8 called Juniper of Wight. (I would love to know if there are any still around). My idea of heaven in my teenage years was to one day have a Fairey Huntsman or a Rapier 31. By the time I was ready to buy a boat of my own however, I played it safe and went for a Princess 42 in 2005.
So.... I have started to have a look around at what is on the market. My inclination is to stick with GRP, so perhaps a Spearfish, Fantome or Triana Tropica. But if there was an immaculate Huntsman out there I may be tempted. It would have to be aft Cockpit. But I may need to learn more about exactly what it takes to keep such a classic in top condition (I guess the obvious answer is 'hard cash!'). Also considering the re-incarnated 30 Swordsman, but a little unsure of the Hamilton jet. I am not in the market for a 'project', so whatever I go for will need to be in good condition and well loved.
Im interested to hear any experiences, guidance or advice. Thanks, Rick
So, I have been thinking about a weekender of 25-30ft. The budget set at a sensible level. Searching some of the ads online it did occur to me that now might be the time to go with my heart and find something classic. I have been brought up around motor boats, and in the 1980's loved my fathers Cox and Haswell 35ft Pegasus. Further back still we owned a Force 8 called Juniper of Wight. (I would love to know if there are any still around). My idea of heaven in my teenage years was to one day have a Fairey Huntsman or a Rapier 31. By the time I was ready to buy a boat of my own however, I played it safe and went for a Princess 42 in 2005.
So.... I have started to have a look around at what is on the market. My inclination is to stick with GRP, so perhaps a Spearfish, Fantome or Triana Tropica. But if there was an immaculate Huntsman out there I may be tempted. It would have to be aft Cockpit. But I may need to learn more about exactly what it takes to keep such a classic in top condition (I guess the obvious answer is 'hard cash!'). Also considering the re-incarnated 30 Swordsman, but a little unsure of the Hamilton jet. I am not in the market for a 'project', so whatever I go for will need to be in good condition and well loved.
Im interested to hear any experiences, guidance or advice. Thanks, Rick
