UFO 31

poter

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4 Feb 2002
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Still going south currently in Corsica for winter
www.fairhead.com
I have been looking at a nice Holman & Pye 1981 Fin Keel UFO 31, with a 12HP petter.
I must admit I have'nt sailed her yet but......... 2 questions

1/does anyone have any experience of this type of yacht

2/ At what point in the negociations should I get the boatyard to put her in the water for a test sail without incuring any loss. Or should I put down a deposit and say its subject to.... etc.


poter
 

chippie

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21 Aug 2001
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If it is the boatyard selling her it shouldnt be too much trouble for them to launch her at no cost to you. Alternatively an offer subject to survey and a test sail on the condition that they put her in once the survey ashore is satisfactory to you. The price of the lift in and out would probably be absorbed in the reduction that can be negotiated once the survey is complete. If she doesnt pass survey consider the survey price an insurance premium you were glad you paid. They shouldnt object to a survey ashore without you parting with any cash as it shows you are serious,
talk to them.
I have heard a few people denigrate the petter due to mixed metals in their construction but dont have first hand experience of the brand.

Good luck
 

DanTribe

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8 Jan 2002
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Essex
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Poter
I've had a Ufo 31 for 3yrs and have been very pleased with her.
Very quick to windward, not so fast downhill compared to modern sleds, unless you use the spinaker. Many were home completed so interiors vary considerably.
12 hp seems a bit underpowered but as they sail so well this may not be a problem.
I understand that the Colvic hulls have a good reputation re. osmosis.
Generally v. good value & great fun to sail.
Good luck
Dan
 

janie

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16 May 2001
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Devon
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Have raced against one for years - may be the one you're looking at, because it is for sale! Lovely boat. Personally, I'd consider 12HP ample power, but then I thought that about our ancient 10HP engine! What do you need the engine for?
 
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