Pretty day/weekend boat - Samba II

I don't know much about values but this looks like a lovely little boat for days out and occasional weekends! Looks like a good price but I have nothing to base that on!
 
Only consider if you’re prepared to upkeep the varnish and look after the wood. And cover in winter/ strong sun etc etc.
Certainly different, but I think I’d be looking to pay around £5k. Retro engine looks good but is it reliable? I suppose you have to consider that much of the work on the boat is done already .
 
Pros

Light compared to steel.

Tough compared to GRP. Aluminium can take a real battering before it breaks. It may dent, but that doesn't stop you getting home safely.

They are different and generate interest wherever you go, if you like that.

Scratches that go through to bare metal are self healing. No emergency paint required like on steel to stop rust weeps.

You will probably come off best if you collide with a plastic boat.

Insurance companies like them. They have very few claims from aluminium boaters.

If properly designed, made and looked after, they last forever. No rot, rust or osmosis.

Cons

Difficult to get paint to stick.

Most designs are multi chined. Round chined metal boats are difficult and expensive to make. Similarly the deck, cockpit and coach-roof all tend not to have too many curves, making them look boxy.

Needs a good insulating lining otherwise noise, temperature and condensation are problematic.

Only expensive and not very effective antifoul can be used.

May be difficult to sell.

Manufacture and repairs require high skills and are expensive.

Wiring and electrical installation must be done especially carefully to avoid electrolysis from stray currents or galvanic corrosion from stray bits of copper.

You need to look after your anodes.
 
That's a lovely looking little boat, but(unless it's for summer days only)she'll need insulating. The bare aluminium in that V berth is giving me chills just looking at it.
Another 2ft in length and the same sort of money would buy a very nice Freeman.
 
Why does a 20ft boat need a 30HP motor to achieve 5 knots?

“5mph at 2000rpm” - sounds about right to me. Probably 4000-4500rpm is the top limit, which would give around 7-8 mph IMHO. More than enough for inland waterways. 2000rpm will be quite economical too.
 
She should trailer ok assuming you can source a suitable trailer. The issue is more do you have a vehicle that can tow it. The combined weight of vessel and trailer quickly adds up and you may find you need a big old 4x4 to pull it safely and legally.
 
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