Colvic Northener

[Commic]

Hello, I'm about to buy a 1970 Colvic Northener. I would apreciate someone to tell me the critical points I should be especialy aware of with this type of boat.

Thanks
Eric

 

[Kilter]

No first hand knowledge of that boat Eric but welcome to the forum!

 

[ianc1200]

Colvic Northeners were professional fitted out. I have a copy of a review somewhere. However a lot of Colvic 26's were DIY fit outs, and believe many have been advertised as "Colvic Northeners" because their current owners don't know who fitted them out.

I've seen Colvic 26's with rear cabins, several with sailing rigs, some have Colvic moulded foredecks, at least one I knew had a timber deck. Engines often 4108's, BMC's 1.5's and 2.5's. Should roll well in a chop!

IanC

 

[galeus]

I've got one of these,well it,s a colvic 26 but not the Northerner conversion.They are all very similar though;but the quality of the fit out is what will determine its worth.I,ve had mine for six years and love it.It's small enough for most inland waterways,yet capable in the right weather of coast and river trips.Yes they do roll like a pig.

 

[Commic]

Thanks for taking the time to reply. I appologize for my lack of knowledge as a future junior sailor but does "roll well in a chop" and "roll like a pig" means that the boat is not verry stable?
I further ask myself if the polyester from a 1970 boat can still be 'trusted' even if she had a osmoses treatment recently.
She's fitted with a 20 Hp Sabb diesel engine. Is that a known engine, as I don't know that brand. Is the 20 Hp enough for this size?

Thanks again
Eric

 

[ianc1200]

Could check the availability of Sabb spares, I'm sure I've read there's problems in getting spares now.

Most (slow) round bilge displacement motor cruisers roll badly, mine certainly does. Steadying sails are meant to dampen this, but from a practical point of view I avoid anything above a F4 and easterly on the East coast, or above F4 and wind over tide.

ianC

IanC