Opportunity... once in a life time...

[Si Crowe]

An opportunity has presented itself, one that I never asked for and one that I never really imagined could in reality happen...

last weekend, down in Southampton with my aged ol' dad he made me an offer with I've been thinking about at great length since...can I? should I? would I regret it if I said no? would I regret it if I said yes?

the long and short of it is he's offered me to take on his boat. he's gotten to an age where he can't use her on his own and his love for the Solent has gone (he's been boating there since the 1950's and it's changed so much and not for the better in his eyes).

Now, he's had this boat since 1982, I grew up on it and represents some of the best times of my life. The emotional connection to this boat (for me) is immense. My biggest qualm has been one of a financial one. Can I maintain her to the level she needs and deserves. In fairness, she needs nothing...the hull is perfect (full osmosis treatment, copper bot antifoul, full recent survey says she's in perfect condition right through which for a vessel built in 1971 is no mean feat) so there are no initial outlays. The twin Perkins Sabre's lumps are spot on, and all the electronics work. like is say, she's 100% right but it's the long term financial commitment...

But, how can I not take her on? I'll be selling my motorbike and ring 16 to help (which are no great loss as I've been biking solidly for 22 years now so I feel that's been done to death) but I'm very excited (if a little nervous about the responsibility). nothing will happen until the start of next season as she's paid up for the season at Hamble point and I can't get a berth up here until then any way (I wont keep her on the south coast as berths are way too expensive plus I live 300 miles away so would never use her).

what would you do?

All I know is that I'm so humbled that my dad would entrust me with his most treasured possession. just the thought of it makes me feel amazingly fortunate and, at the same time and in all honesty quite soppy and emotional.











she's an awesome boat and only 29 were ever made.... a rare beast.

[James]

That is very nice.
You live life once, if you can afford it I'd go for it. You can always sell it on if it does not work out
If you don't buy it you may regret it and you'll probably never have the oppertunity to get it back. It also won't be the same after someoen else has owned it.

[9-R]

Wow! Very cool indeed.

If you're in debate, I'd at least keep it for a year or two while you sit on your decision. I'm with James in that with all that it means to you and your family, I think you'd regret selling it so soon. It's too early to make that decision before you have the chance to see if it's within your means. You never know what may happen so Go for it!

[Si Crowe]

too be fair... the debate has been kinda squashed...there's no way I'm letting this slip through my fingers.. I just can't let that happen.

[Si Crowe]

Hahaaaaa, I read this when you first posted it Si, I think I'm starting to get to know you a little.
I had a little chuckle to myself thinking " he ain't gonna let that go"
Good on you buddy, grab it and enjoy, it looks a stunning boat.

[RIB8580]

Just do it.....looks like a bloody lovely boat to me, fantastic opportunity.

[Paul]

Si .......that's got your name written all over it mate ignoring the fact it's you dads boat .......cabin cruiser that looks like it's going like the clappers stood still
The photos show that its been a cared for and loved boat in stunning condition for its year and you have the benefit of knowing its history/ownership ....... you let it go and you'll regret it

[Si Crowe]

Cheers guys... you've all confirmed what i already knew deep down.

she goes well with twin Perkins Sabre 225hp 6l straight 6 turbo intercooled diesels running shafts and 4 blade bronze props. 32kts top end and a steady 22-24kkts cruising. @ 70p per litre up here for diesel its not too bad but she's still gonna drink a bit but lets face it...every time i get the ring in the water for the day it's an easy £60 in launching and fuel so...

as for history...yeah...well know to me and the love my dad has lavished on her is, well it's alot.

re engined in 92 (only 400hrs on the mills) so starts off the button every time with no smoke.

i just can't let this go to anyone else so i'll be speaking to the old man to confirm things this evening...

[gwozhog]

I would love to wakesurf behind it. Looks like a sweet boat. I hope it works out for you.

[Si Crowe]

well, it's official...come the start of the next season the ol' girl will be in my ownership hopefully for many years to come...

ecstatic don't come close...

just got to sell my Aprilia Tuono and the ring 16 soonish...

Will need to sort a company to transport her up to Yorkshire which is a simple task in itself. I've got a mate who's a marine engineer who can recommission the engines and filter/purify the diesel and repack the stern glands.

I can do the other stuff life like servicing the seacocks, antifoul the rudders, p brackets and trimtabs and fit new anodes.

push come to shove I'll moor her Naburn marina but I'd rather keep her else where but for the 1st season that's no worries...


BIG F*****g YAY!!!!!!!