Etap 28

[Bear4]

I'm looking at buying an Etap 28 built in 1981, but I can't find any independant reviews anywhere. Does anyone have any information on what they are like to sail and any potential problems that I should look out for? Any information would be useful. Thanks.

 

[poter]

There are a couple of Etap owners on here, you might also try this post on Scuttlebut, for a few more answers.

Couple of questions I think you need to ask:

Has she had a recent survey? usefull comments may be had!
How old is the standing rigging. difficult to get insured over 10 years old.
When was the engine last run...not serviced but run.
& the Etap has a double skin "Unsinkable" are there any signs inside or outside of delamination or spongy feel to the deck.


I assume she is a reasonable price, something you are happy with anyway, but dont forget the extras - insurance, mooring costs, & of course the bottomless pit of maintanence.

Is this your first large yacht?
Where will you keep her?
We all do it, I'm on my 4th project boat, so go for it.

good luck

poter

 

[jackho]

I don't think I would have a problem with the 28ft Etap. I owned 3 Etaps - 22 - 26 and 30 and was bidding on a 28ft at one stage. Unfortunately I scrapped all the brochures I had but from what I remember of the 28 - she was a good roomey boat with nice tartan upholstry. I would suggest you e-mail Etap for any info. you need. I have never known any Etap to have osmosis and have seen quite a few around France that have never ben out of the water. Hope this helps!!!

 

[Koeketiene]

[ QUOTE ]
I have never known any Etap to have osmosis and have seen quite a few around France that have never ben out of the water. Hope this helps!!!

[/ QUOTE ]

Too true - with an Etap, if you don't get osmosis in the first five years, chances are you'll never get it.
Yanita had been kept afloat - unused - for 7 years when we got her. Still smooth as a baby's bum. Moisture readings were very acceptable.

Also little condensation inside. Due to the double hull very well insulated.

What do you plan to do with her?

 

[DaveS]

I would endorse others' comments. I've had two Etaps - a 22 and a 30 and been very pleased with them. One point worth checking - if you can! - I have heard the odd story of chainplate failure. These are buried in the hull structure and impossible to see without major surgery but, with the shrouds properly tensioned, sighting along the hull both outside and (as far as possible) inside to check that there is no distortion should give reassurance.

 

[Oldhand]

If its any help, they are faster than a deep keel Etap 30 off the wind but less good upwind.

 

[Bear4]

Thanks for all the useful information. This gives me some more questions to ask when I go back to see the boat again and lots more things to look at. I live in Brighton so I'm going to keep the boat around there to start off with.