Marine Surveyor Estero – Guide for Buying Vintage and Classic Boats

Just like some cars, there are some boats that withstand the test of time despite being classified as depreciating assets. All the same, you must never go ahead with the purchase of the so-called classic boats without getting the input of a marine surveyor Esterotrusts. This is for the simple fact that not every old boat is a classic boat. You don’t want to be swindled, do you? In this post, we will be using the term vintage and classic interchangeably.

Understanding the terms

Prior to getting started on the purchase of a classic boat, it is good to start by learning about the terms used. Yes, an experienced marine surveyor Estero will be able to help you understand these terms but it doesn’t hurt to learn about them on your own. Here are the most common terms you will come across.

  • Historic boats: Boats built before 1918.
  • Antique boats: Boats built between 1919 and 1942
  • Classic boats: Boats built between 1943 and 1975
  • Late Classic Boats: Boats built between 1976 and 1995

When shopping for a boat, it is good to note that the term vintage boats are used to describe vessels under the classic boat era. These are often boats that have been restored. There are also some new replicas built with actual old-school equipment. After a marine survey, a boat surveyor will help you know if you are dealing with a real vintage boat or a replica boat.

Examples of classic boats

Classic boats are made either of fiberglass or wood. The first fiberglass boats are more than 60 years old. Some good examples of classic powerboat brands are:

  • Wheeler
  • Chris Craft
  • Century
  • Gar Wood
  • Trumpy
  • Hacker-Craft
  • Riva
  • Lyman

Classic sailboat builders include:

  • Sparkman & Stephens
  • Hinckley
  • Kettenburg
  • Alden
  • Crosby Catboat
  • Herreshoff

Whether you are searching for a streamlined rowing boat, runabout, day sailor, or open wooden dinghy, you might be lucky enough to find one that is still afloat. It is good to start by being specific about what you want in a classic boat. Do you want a project, replica, or restored classic boat? What do you need the boat for? The answer to these questions will keep you from making the wrong choice.

All things considered, to make sure the vessel is in good condition and has been priced well, you will need the services of a marine surveyor in Estero. The surveyor will comb through every inch of the boat and help you know if anything is amiss. You can use the survey report to make a better choice.

Marine Surveyor Estero