I think you found a GREAT DEAL on a working boat ! ! Sure she is going to cost you time and money but she has the "basics" and because IT'S A BOAT . The BEST part is she costs LESS than a used 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle that needs work ! ! Happy sailing ! Thanks for the video !
Ha! Less than most used cars these days… Good point: she’s a working boat that just needs some work. She could sail now. Drop her in the water and go. Thanks for the comment - and thanks for watching, again!
The boat seems like it has solid bones. If offers many possibilities. Boats like this open up sailing to a much wider range of people. Great job finding and presenting this gem.
Those sweet lines are really tempting, I bet she's fun to sail! She'd be the perfect first boat for someone with serious sailing experience and solid diy skills.
Having recently returned to the United States, the problem I see with someone looking at a $5000 boat is that they likely could never afford a slip anywhere. Marinas are out of control in the US and to say they are not catering to $5000 boats is an understatement! Many are redoing their slip structures to have less slips but for much larger boats.
I definitely hear what you’re saying but up here in Maine it’s not quite so bad. Moorings are a big part of life (and access to a dinghy dock or launch service), so there are workarounds. Moorings run a few hundred dollars a year (for servicing) and dinghy dock space and can also run a few hundred dollars a year, but that is a lot less than slip fees! Thanks for watching and for your comment!
Wow I am watching this in pure envy nice purchase I learned how to sail on a 34 Tartan absolutely lovely boat when cleaned up I hated the 3 cylinder diesel motor at times but when it ran it ran great. Thanks for sharing
I sailed on Peregrine in the late 70s or early 80s. She was a nice sail. I recall her for sale on the hard in Essex about 5 years ago. Not sure if she was commissioned and sailed to Maine, but she was in similar rough shape sitting in Essex for several uncovered winters. I’m guessing there is more concealed problems from years of neglect. But I do recall her fondly.
It must be the same boat. Small world, indeed. She definitely needs a little love but for the right buyer, she will be a great boat! Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment!
Hope it didn't look like that when you sailed. Reminds me of other boat listings that show pictures of how the vessel looked a decade ago when the owner just bought it at market, and then let it go to hell like this one. At least this guy is in the present.
I'm impressed, anyone with a bit of knowledge and knowing what they're doing could turn that boat around in a couple of months.its just good old fashioned restoration with plenty of elbow grease thrown in. If you dont mind getting stuck in , then this could be a great boat again. I reckon a husband and wife team could do this or a single guy that knows what he's doing. IMHO, it's not that big of a project , just lots of hours sanding and painting and in general just restoring the boat back up to a condition that suits the new owner. I think its a bargain..😊
I sailed an Islander Bahama 30’. It was a great boat. Could sail i a whisp of wind and double reefed in 40 knots at theoretical hull speed. Beer can racing and single handed she was very fun. Even at 25 years old, solid!
Wow that's a great find. Ii my health allowed it, I would love to buy her and bring her home, I live close to where she was built near Painesville, Ohio (Grand River, 25 miles E of Cleveland). Tartans are quality boats and the hulls are solid. That's a nice draft for the Keys or Bahamas. BTW, in the yard at Tartan's factory, there is a 26 footer from the early 1960's ; one of the first production fiberglass boats ever built for the civilian market, they were real innovators. It has a lot of problems from being exposed for decades but the hull itself is still rock solid after 60 years.
What I like about this specific boat from Tartan is that there is a skeg protecting the rudder. That means you could take this boat on the open ocean. I wouldn't recommend it...but you could.
I looked at a number of 34Cs when shopping for my first boat about 15 years ago. Loved the design overall and came close to making offers on two boats. Turned out both (and I think most 34Cs) had serious moisture issues in the decks and elsewhere. The one we were most serious about, in Cambridge, MD, was eliminated when my wife pulled a stanchion right out of the deck. I mean, for 5 bucks, it's certainly worth a survey, but I'd want confirmation there were no moisture issues. I think the centerboard can have problems, as well. I'd sure want to know why the mast was replaced, and I'd have a separate survey done on the engine. But a worthy boat, if you get into it with eyes wide open.
Well that one's not going to last long. If I had 50 C-notes and a wife that likes water I be loading my truck. Sometimes serendipity is your best friend. Keep the good stuff coming.
Great video but I would like to ask for your opinion. My basic concern is the amount of moisture in the hull and deck. I understand that tapping the hull with a hammer can give a clue but would like any recommendation on a moisture meter and usage. Thank you and please keep making more great vids. All the best
Moisture meters can be great. A good one, like the Tramex Skipper 5, can be very expensive ($600+). And you really need ideal conditions so as not to get a false reading. As far as this boat goes, the seller is a marine surveyor, so certainly feel free to email him and ask him any questions about the boat you might have! Not sure if I answered your question, so feel free to ask more!
In all fairness, how much do you estimate for the repairs and renovations on a boat like this? The reason I ask is because I want to invest in a good, safe boat. If that boat is more than 10 years old, I can imagine it would need some more money put in to put it in a shape. This is especially tricky because I am not an engineer and would have to hire someone to do any repairs and upgrades that are necessary to get the boat safely sailing.
This particular boat really needed some interior work. It has already sold and sailed away, so it was usable as is. It all depends on the boat and to what extent/level you would like to fix it up. If you want Bristol condition, that’s one thing; if you just want to use it as it, that’s another. Then there’s everything in between. The key features (there are others but too many to list here) are: a structurally sound hull/deck, good standing rigging, decent/good sails, and a reliable engine. Now there are varying degrees to all of these. But a good, safe, fun boat can be found for not a ton of money. To what degree you want to make it “perfect” is up to you. But, at the very least, invest in a good marine survey. In the case of that $5k Tartan, for another $5k, and some sweat equity (like cleaning the teak, washing the heck out of it, and waxing/buffing the topsides), you would have a boat that you could have a ton of fun with. Will it be perfect? No. But who cares? There are thousands of imperfect sailboats sailing the seven seas and having the time of their lives!
Looks like it might be a great deal for the right person. Too bad you were doing the tour alone ... would have been nice to have Ken to help. You left out a look at the bilge (curious how bad it looked after the intrusion), would like to have gotten a glimpse of the sea cocks and thru hulls (52 year old boat ... were they original?), and you always look at the chain plates in your tours (surprised that you skipped them, considering you did open the cabinetry). Considering the cost of the new sole, new lifelines, new updated electronics, paint and varnish for the topsides, relocating the LP correctly, and adding a windlass (I'm too old to pull anchors by hand) ... the whole cost would likely run another $12k - $15k with quality materials doing the work yourself -- not terrible for a completed 34 foot boat in the $20k range, it would still be under current market average.
I know it! I forgot a lot of stuff. However, the seller is a marine surveyor and can definitely answer all of these questions. The bilge was fine, BTW. Just plain forgot to film it. But, in short, I agree with you. It will take an investment and for the person(s), it could be done on the “cheap”. And as the seller told me, she’s ready to go in the water now, so none of that work HAS to happen immediately. It’s all B-list stuff. Though, obviously, at the very least a good clean would be advised! I will make a checklist of items before next solo adventure so I don’t miss things! As always, thank you for your comments!
It’s a good question. It all depends! Unless you’re planning on living on a mooring you own, or at anchor somewhere, you’ll pay for some sort of storage whether the boat is on the hard or in a slip. Even if you store it in your yard, you’ll pay to have it hauled there. But, as far as sailing destinations go this time of year, there are still a few weeks of great sailing left up here, so long as a hurricane doesn’t spin up the coast! So there’s time to head south…or to Bermuda!
Please email the seller directly to get this answer. I am not sure how high the water got (fresh water). I do know that the engine has been serviced and has a new alternator. The engine is fully commissioned and ready to go. The seller’s email address is in the description below the video. Let me know if you can’t access it. Thanks!
You don’t have to use the centerboard but the pin on this one has been replaced and it’s functioning as it should. Tremendously helpful for upwind sailing!
So, weekender? Is someone has a slip, or slot on the hard, and wants a project boat to upgrade and brighten? Day sailor. But yeah. Where is the turtle? Where did the water get in? What path did the water take from above to below. Why no inspection of the chainplates, and those are inboard chainplates so be aware, or the bilge. How deep does the mildew go? Why no hull tapping? Why was the fuel tank out? And a midships engine is going to be noisy on any long cruise, since the wind don't always blow according to hoyle. At that length, can she be trailered? Electronics. Solar? Biminy? What complement of sails? Mighty small ice box, no reefer. No dingy. Lots of unanswered questions. 73 74 though, usually means a thick hull, which is good. Narrow beam but what is your need? Cramped for a live aboard depending on your claustrophobia level? But is all you want is recreation, and you have time and money on your hands?
I have to confess that when I saw the $5K price I was expecting a true floating disaster. I was presently surprised that the boat is essentially sound. Nothing you showed requires a lot of money just elbow grease. Overall the sole and refinishing the interior wood work are the big jobs and they are not that big. You could rip the old sole out and put in a teak and holly (plywood) sole for around $1K (a couple of sheets of teak and holly plywood and a quart of quality varnish). If you wanted to get out sailing on the cheap just rip the nasty cork out, sand the substrate and put a couple coats of Porch and Floor paint down and go sailing for under $100. All the other wood work looks like a day or two with a heat gun and scraper and sand paper, then 2 weeks of varnishing for a couple of hours a day. I bet the hull could be made to look pretty good with just a serious compounding and buffing. The boot stripe could use some sanding and a coat of paint, but that isn't required to sail the boat away. New lifelines represent about $500 for wire and some Suncor fittings. However, an inspection of the existing lifelines might show no signs of corrosion (cracks and staining on vinyl, etc.) which would allow you to put that off for a few years. This looks like a great opportunity for someone who can do a bit of DIY and then go sailing. The boat looks to be documented (no state numbers). It looks like it will cost about $300 for Abel's to splash her. If someone buys the boat now,they could be sailing away for under $6K (purchase price, insurance, documentation transfer, state excise tax/registration until the new document arrives and launch). I would expect the price to go up by a couple of grand if the boat isn't sold by the end of October since she will go back under cover for the winter.
Well said, sir, and I agree with everything you have said with respect to getting her sailing. Obviously, she’s not turn-key but the big stuff is good to go. As always, thank you for your thoughtful responses and comments.
Todd, Elbow grease may be free, but I just bought a 1 quart 3-part kit of Awl-Bright for $220 at defender. Even Schooner varnish is nearly $100. Please disclose to the idiots how many quarts this boat might need, for a starter, then $ for Sails running rigging, electronics, sandblasting, barrier coating and bottom paint, engine and electrical upgrades. Marine supplies have gotten ridiculously expensive because of exclusive retail distribution contracts thanks to Kellogg Marine who has every boater by the short hairs and most don't even know it. They might be sailing by october and sinking in november in that POS
@@SurfBandFan If you strip the topsides wood completely, you can get 6-8 coats on from 2 quarts and have most of the second quart left for the interior. Of course, the varnish is a 100% cosmetic issue and it can wait until spring when varnish goes on sale here on Mount Desert Island. I paid about $30 a quart last spring for Pettit Captains varnish. Not the best varnish but it works. No need to rush into cosmetic work. Incidentally why did you buy Awl Brite? If I wanted a super hard 2 part varnish I would have bought Epifanes 2 part for less than half the money. That said my go to varnish for exterior work, unless I get something else on sale super cheap, is Epifanes high gloss. Defender sells it for $48 a liter. When you get to revarnishing down below use something cheap like Captains gloss for build coats then put on two coats of Epifanes rubbed effect as a top coat. The comment was that the sails are "in good shape". So why not sail with them for a season before buying new. New sails for that boat will be under $4K anyway so that isn't much. As far as electronics go I didn't see a plotter, but a Raymarine Element 7s can be had for $550 today. That is a perfectly serviceable plotter with built in North American charts. If you don't like the Furuno radar the Quantum radar for the Raymarine element 7s is $1,750 at Defender. I don't see that it needs any additional electronics. True the radar is an older Furuno, but that doesn't mean it is non functional. I would move it to a swing out bracket in the companionway, but that is cheap and easy. The running rigging looks serviceable from what I could see. It might benefit from a good wash, but what I could see in the video looked OK. As far as blasting the bottom goes, all I can say is: Why if there is no sign of blisters? If the hull doesn't have blisters, there is zero reason to barrier coat it. If the hull penetrations are in good shape that boat is not going to sink. It would take about 10 minutes max to check the thru hulls, stuffing box and have a look at the hose connections and the hoses themselves. You might want to buy some new hose clamps but they are cheap. What engine upgrades? A nearly new, low hour Universal diesel will run for years. As far as electrical upgrades, wire is not that expensive. If the batteries are OK. I see no issues. What electrical do you need anyway - lights, pressure water pump, propane detector with solenoid shut off wiring and your electronics. If you want to go fancy buy a couple of 100 watt solar panels and a Victron MPPT controller. $350-$400 or so including wiring. As it is currently set up, that boat doesn't need much electrical. As long as what is there is not a fire hazard, it will do for the first season or two.
I know nothing about this stuff, but I do wonder... How much would it cost to both purchase this boat and then have a reputable boat yard make her perfct for bluewater ? With ALL the latest, start of the art electronics, all new lines and whatever misc. Gear it needs and made clean and reconditioned, made new again if you will ? And to move it or sail is to Galveston Texas ? Anybody ?
@@boatfools I sent an email. But I am still getting ahead of myself. If it doesn't sell by next summer we'll see what happens. Just as an FYI I'm looking to retire summer 2025 (or 26 depending) and live on a boat. I lived on a 31ft in Mexico during the pandemic. Got boring sometimes so I want to be moored offshore from villages and towns to frequent. Less than 30 minutes by kayak to local markets, etc.
Not a bad boat, but I think your presentation could be misleading to the uninitiated. I would hesitate to call rigging that is 10 years old "new." I would also be cautious of any engine that is not new with that few hours - it is not good for a diesel engine to sit unused for long periods of time. My guess is once you started working through it you could easily drop $75K getting this boat ship shape, not including dozens if not 100s of hours cleaning and doing brightwork. Far from a "$5K" boat! I would rather spend $35k and be out sailing tomorrow without a huge to do list. Also - how did the water intrusion occur and what's stopping it from happening again?
In all fairness, the boat was used last season, so it hasn’t been sitting idle. So the engine has been used and is 100% functioning as it should. I am definitely clear that the boat needs work. I also state that the mast and standing rigging were new within the past 10 years. For a mast, that’s pretty darn good. As far as the standing rigging and turnbuckles, not only does it look great, typically spars and all are removed in the offseason NE. So the 10 year rule of thumb is really misleading up here. It gets light usage relative to a boat, say, in Florida. Lastly, this isn’t a boat for the uninitiated, but one for someone with solid DIY skills and a modest budget. As I say in the video, one could sail away in this boat tomorrow. Does she need work? 100%. But none of it has to happen immediately. Go sailing, have fun, and plan for the future. Sails are all in good to great shape.
@@boatfools At the high price of mast unstep, storage and re-step, I think your "typically spars and all are removed in the offseason NE." is pure speculation. If they could have afforded it, the boat would not have been left uncovered in the winter, so IMHO I doubt they spent the extra $1500 to have the mast pulled each season. Cut the BS "in all fairness" to the next guy.
@@SurfBandFan I store my boat 6 miles from that yard and they take the spars down on every boat they haul every year. My round trip cost for haul, unstep spars (I have a ketch), restep spars and relaunch is about $1,600. If I had one spar it would be less. There are two other yards within 5 miles of that yard where they unstep the spars on every boat. We have serious winter storms here and no yard locally will let you sit in the yard spars up when the boat will definitely see 60-80 knots of wind over the winter. It is not unusual for standing rigging here to last 30+ years. Yeah, if you were going to sail around the world, new standing rigging would be called for, but a Tartan 34C is hardly a world cruiser.
I get a survey done and then a firm price from a boatyard to bring that vessel up to snuff. Then I'd add their quotation to the $5,000 before I'd start calling it a bargain...
You must get a survey done. Of course. Of note, the seller is a marine surveyor, so hopefully he’s not selling a heap to the first sucker with $5k. But, remember, outside of what a survey might unearth, none of the cosmetics items needs to be addressed immediately. You get an engine that’s been gone through, a new alternator, a reasonably newer mast and standing rigging, three sails in great condition, a new centerboard pin, and a new rudder bearing. The boat can be dropped in the water and be sailed away. The rest can be done over time. So, yes, for $5k - pretty sweet. Is she in bristol condition? Heck no. But for $5k, that ain’t happening… Appreciate your comment and your view!
IMHO people who are looking at a $5000.00 boat are probably not going to be looking at a yard to do the work. This seems like a great bargain for a DIY person.
Excellent tip! And I love pickles! Sad story: this boat sold and ended up on the bricks during its passage to her new home. New owner was ok, but rudder post bent. Hopefully she’ll sail again.
@JohnSmith-cx7zt - Seriously? "Mold mitigation" on a fibreglass sailboat involves thorough scrubbing of all surfaces, locker interiors, and bilges with bleach, then wiping them down with white vinegar when they are dry. Then any cushions stored aboard should be replaced. However, he clearly states in the video that there is none of the tell-tale odor of serious mold on this boat.
She went fast! Worse still, she ended up on the bricks with her new owner. Luckily boat and sailor were ok (bent rudder post was the extent of the damage, I believe). Keep checking back. We come across some pretty sweet deals and boats from time to time!
Best thing to do is scrap the boat, not worth $5k since it would take another $10k to bring it up to a state of use. Better to just buy a boat that is in good shape.
This is my first viewing of your channel; you appear to be a worthy successor to the "Captain". You do need to work on being concise, correct (10 year old rigging is close to EOL, not new unless the boat spent 10 years in the desert.) and cutting back on repetition. You made too many references to the price & repeated below deck most of what you said on deck about the engine.
Appreciate the feedback. But to be clear, I said the standing ringing and mast were new within the last 10 years. Considering when buying a used sailboat one may have no idea when the standing rigging was replaced; knowing it was replaced within the past 10 years is invaluable information. Ten years is not near the EOL - it all depends on the boat, its location, usage, and maintenance. I believe mine is 20 years old and it has been inspected and is fine. The reason for this is the boat is in Maine, and the mast is unstepped after every season. It gets 4 months of “use” a year. That’s not to stay it can’t develop issues, it certainly can. It just hasn’t. My stepfather has rod rigging on his boat and he bought the boat new in 1985. I think he finally replaced the standing rigging in 2010, or later. We raced that boat up and down the Maine coast for decades, raced it in Block Island, RI, etc., and have been through some nasty stuff. Never an issue. But, alas, the key here is that it’s a rule of thumb you’re talking about. A good and competent surveyor should go over the boat. As important, a rigger should be hired to go up the mast and check it all out. No doubt about it. As for the mast, if someone told me the mast on my boat was less than 10 years old, I would think I’d just won the lottery. A new mast for my boat is $10k! I know this because inquired about getting a new one. Nope. Keeping the old one! I appreciate your email and I hope you keep watching!
There's always a reason why a boat is cheap. Tartan made strong beautiful boats in the 70's when I was actively sailing. As I remember it, they were made in the Midwest for Great Lakes sailing which often as not turns into a hairy chested adventure in a real hurry.
No, the saying is nothing costs more than a free boat. I believe you are buying a floating boat with good engine and motor... perfect for heading to the Caribbean.
Such a deal! Looks like it needs a lot more than it has. Noticed you kept the camera from pointing at the cocpit, overhead and windows. Leaks maybe? For every dollar in, you'd be lucky to get 10 cents out of it. Even berth cushions will cost a grand or more. NOT FAIR ti ignorant U-TUBE Romantics
Had the exact same thought. Why no shot up above?Where was the water intrusion? You never went back and showed the “auto helm” as you called it nor any talk about it. ?
Water intrusion was from a cockpit drain that froze and separated over the winter. Then water drained from cockpit directly into the bilge. Sheesh, my friend, I simply forgot to go back to the autohelm, and it was nothing fancy. Just a belt and gyroscope-type. Like the autohelm 3000. I didn't have Canadian Ken helping me and I missed some stuff. Nothing nefarious going on...
![The IDEAL Racer/Cruiser? PRICE DROP: C&C 36-1 for $20k with TONS of upgrades. [SOLD]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/KF5QHgYEJqk/mqdefault.jpg)
I think you found a GREAT DEAL on a working boat ! ! Sure she is going to cost you time and money but she has the "basics" and because IT'S A BOAT . The BEST part is she costs LESS than a used 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle that needs work ! ! Happy sailing ! Thanks for the video !
Ha! Less than most used cars these days… Good point: she’s a working boat that just needs some work. She could sail now. Drop her in the water and go. Thanks for the comment - and thanks for watching, again!
The boat seems like it has solid bones. If offers many possibilities. Boats like this open up sailing to a much wider range of people. Great job finding and presenting this gem.
Agreed and thank you! The point is to get out there on the water. Doesn’t have to be perfect…
Those sweet lines are really tempting, I bet she's fun to sail! She'd be the perfect first boat for someone with serious sailing experience and solid diy skills.
Having recently returned to the United States, the problem I see with someone looking at a $5000 boat is that they likely could never afford a slip anywhere. Marinas are out of control in the US and to say they are not catering to $5000 boats is an understatement! Many are redoing their slip structures to have less slips but for much larger boats.
I definitely hear what you’re saying but up here in Maine it’s not quite so bad. Moorings are a big part of life (and access to a dinghy dock or launch service), so there are workarounds. Moorings run a few hundred dollars a year (for servicing) and dinghy dock space and can also run a few hundred dollars a year, but that is a lot less than slip fees! Thanks for watching and for your comment!
I tranfer an flat trailer into sailboat trailer for my Tartan 34 C. Easy diy.
Wow I am watching this in pure envy nice purchase I learned how to sail on a 34 Tartan absolutely lovely boat when cleaned up I hated the 3 cylinder diesel motor at times but when it ran it ran great. Thanks for sharing
You bet! And thanks for watching!
I sailed on Peregrine in the late 70s or early 80s. She was a nice sail. I recall her for sale on the hard in Essex about 5 years ago. Not sure if she was commissioned and sailed to Maine, but she was in similar rough shape sitting in Essex for several uncovered winters. I’m guessing there is more concealed problems from years of neglect. But I do recall her fondly.
It must be the same boat. Small world, indeed. She definitely needs a little love but for the right buyer, she will be a great boat! Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment!
Hope it didn't look like that when you sailed.
Reminds me of other boat listings that show pictures of how the vessel looked a decade ago when the owner just bought it at market, and then let it go to hell like this one. At least this guy is in the present.
Essex UK 🇬🇧?
@@Ian-ij4of Essex CT USA
@ptobysmith2315 Thank you, 😊
I'm impressed, anyone with a bit of knowledge and knowing what they're doing could turn that boat around in a couple of months.its just good old fashioned restoration with plenty of elbow grease thrown in. If you dont mind getting stuck in , then this could be a great boat again. I reckon a husband and wife team could do this or a single guy that knows what he's doing. IMHO, it's not that big of a project , just lots of hours sanding and painting and in general just restoring the boat back up to a condition that suits the new owner. I think its a bargain..😊
Agreed!
One of the best sailing boats i have sailed. In bad or good weather
I sailed an Islander Bahama 30’. It was a great boat. Could sail i a whisp of wind and double reefed in 40 knots at theoretical hull speed. Beer can racing and single handed she was very fun. Even at 25 years old, solid!
Nice!
Wow that's a great find. Ii my health allowed it, I would love to buy her and bring her home, I live close to where she was built near Painesville, Ohio (Grand River, 25 miles E of Cleveland). Tartans are quality boats and the hulls are solid. That's a nice draft for the Keys or Bahamas. BTW, in the yard at Tartan's factory, there is a 26 footer from the early 1960's ; one of the first production fiberglass boats ever built for the civilian market, they were real innovators. It has a lot of problems from being exposed for decades but the hull itself is still rock solid after 60 years.
I was impressed with this boat. Some work needed? Sure. But still worth it, IMO! I appreciate your comment!
What I like about this specific boat from Tartan is that there is a skeg protecting the rudder. That means you could take this boat on the open ocean. I wouldn't recommend it...but you could.
The rudder on skeg setup is so key, IMO. Some definite peace of mind there… Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the review! That is a great boat. I would have to get a boat from up there in Maine. Keep up the good work!
Thank you! Some great boats here!
Enjoyed the tour. Thank you for posting.
Dlaczego silniki łodzi nie mają skrzyń biegów?
I own a 71.......5000 is a deal. I've been enjoying mine since retiring 7 years ago as my summer home. Great deal.
That’s awesome!
Thanks for showing
And thank you for watching!
I looked at a number of 34Cs when shopping for my first boat about 15 years ago. Loved the design overall and came close to making offers on two boats. Turned out both (and I think most 34Cs) had serious moisture issues in the decks and elsewhere. The one we were most serious about, in Cambridge, MD, was eliminated when my wife pulled a stanchion right out of the deck. I mean, for 5 bucks, it's certainly worth a survey, but I'd want confirmation there were no moisture issues. I think the centerboard can have problems, as well. I'd sure want to know why the mast was replaced, and I'd have a separate survey done on the engine. But a worthy boat, if you get into it with eyes wide open.
Well that one's not going to last long. If I had 50 C-notes and a wife that likes water I be loading my truck. Sometimes serendipity is your best friend. Keep the good stuff coming.
Very funny!
Great video but I would like to ask for your opinion. My basic concern is the amount of moisture in the hull and deck. I understand that tapping the hull with a hammer can give a clue but would like any recommendation on a moisture meter and usage. Thank you and please keep making more great vids. All the best
Moisture meters can be great. A good one, like the Tramex Skipper 5, can be very expensive ($600+). And you really need ideal conditions so as not to get a false reading. As far as this boat goes, the seller is a marine surveyor, so certainly feel free to email him and ask him any questions about the boat you might have! Not sure if I answered your question, so feel free to ask more!
Good point as the deck and hull above the waterline are balsa core!
Yes, it is weird not seeing our Canadian. 😞. Looks good.
He will be back this coming weekend - not to worry! 😂
If it wasn't on the other side of the world I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
I wish there were channels like this for boats overe here in the west side
Someday we’ll take the show on the road!
@@boatfools following
Looks like a deal and a good live aboard.Wonder about the swing keel and privets etc.
The pin has been replaced. All functional as it should be. Thank you for watching!
I would take this in a jiffy if I was over there, damn that's my style, big and working with a bit of maintenance.
It might be time for a visit to the USA…then sail it home!⛵️
@@boatfools
If only it were possible.
This will have to be one of the ones that got away. Cheers mate
I like the access to the ice box from the cockpit. Why don't more boats have that?
That's a really good question! A really nice feature.
Thanks. Sir
My pleasure. Thanks for tuning in!
In all fairness, how much do you estimate for the repairs and renovations on a boat like this? The reason I ask is because I want to invest in a good, safe boat. If that boat is more than 10 years old, I can imagine it would need some more money put in to put it in a shape. This is especially tricky because I am not an engineer and would have to hire someone to do any repairs and upgrades that are necessary to get the boat safely sailing.
This particular boat really needed some interior work. It has already sold and sailed away, so it was usable as is. It all depends on the boat and to what extent/level you would like to fix it up. If you want Bristol condition, that’s one thing; if you just want to use it as it, that’s another. Then there’s everything in between. The key features (there are others but too many to list here) are: a structurally sound hull/deck, good standing rigging, decent/good sails, and a reliable engine. Now there are varying degrees to all of these. But a good, safe, fun boat can be found for not a ton of money. To what degree you want to make it “perfect” is up to you. But, at the very least, invest in a good marine survey. In the case of that $5k Tartan, for another $5k, and some sweat equity (like cleaning the teak, washing the heck out of it, and waxing/buffing the topsides), you would have a boat that you could have a ton of fun with. Will it be perfect? No. But who cares? There are thousands of imperfect sailboats sailing the seven seas and having the time of their lives!
Looks like it might be a great deal for the right person. Too bad you were doing the tour alone ... would have been nice to have Ken to help. You left out a look at the bilge (curious how bad it looked after the intrusion), would like to have gotten a glimpse of the sea cocks and thru hulls (52 year old boat ... were they original?), and you always look at the chain plates in your tours (surprised that you skipped them, considering you did open the cabinetry). Considering the cost of the new sole, new lifelines, new updated electronics, paint and varnish for the topsides, relocating the LP correctly, and adding a windlass (I'm too old to pull anchors by hand) ... the whole cost would likely run another $12k - $15k with quality materials doing the work yourself -- not terrible for a completed 34 foot boat in the $20k range, it would still be under current market average.
I know it! I forgot a lot of stuff. However, the seller is a marine surveyor and can definitely answer all of these questions. The bilge was fine, BTW. Just plain forgot to film it. But, in short, I agree with you. It will take an investment and for the person(s), it could be done on the “cheap”. And as the seller told me, she’s ready to go in the water now, so none of that work HAS to happen immediately. It’s all B-list stuff. Though, obviously, at the very least a good clean would be advised! I will make a checklist of items before next solo adventure so I don’t miss things! As always, thank you for your comments!
Nice
Not perfect, but definitely nice!
I really like the 34C, but the headroom is just a tad too low for me. (I'm 6'2")
What was the reason for the water intrusion?
A cockpit drain froze and separated over the winter. Emptied from cockpit into the bilge...
Ok Greenhorn question. Where can you sail to at this time of year if you dont wanna pony up the money for storage?.
It’s a good question. It all depends! Unless you’re planning on living on a mooring you own, or at anchor somewhere, you’ll pay for some sort of storage whether the boat is on the hard or in a slip. Even if you store it in your yard, you’ll pay to have it hauled there. But, as far as sailing destinations go this time of year, there are still a few weeks of great sailing left up here, so long as a hurricane doesn’t spin up the coast! So there’s time to head south…or to Bermuda!
I actually like the helm further forward. The helmsperson get some protection. And is not sitting with their butt practically in the water.
Portlights need replacing?
Nope. They're all good. Though only 3 open (not including the two hatches). So that is a consideration.
I would love that boat providing the engine was not immersed. Thanks
Please email the seller directly to get this answer. I am not sure how high the water got (fresh water). I do know that the engine has been serviced and has a new alternator. The engine is fully commissioned and ready to go. The seller’s email address is in the description below the video. Let me know if you can’t access it. Thanks!
Whats the chain plate issuea??
Do people really use those centerboards or are they more trouble than its worth?
You don’t have to use the centerboard but the pin on this one has been replaced and it’s functioning as it should. Tremendously helpful for upwind sailing!
You may do well to drop the CB and inspect the hinge pin in that old girl, or it may decide to do it on its own.
So, weekender? Is someone has a slip, or slot on the hard, and wants a project boat to upgrade and brighten? Day sailor. But yeah. Where is the turtle? Where did the water get in? What path did the water take from above to below. Why no inspection of the chainplates, and those are inboard chainplates so be aware, or the bilge. How deep does the mildew go? Why no hull tapping? Why was the fuel tank out? And a midships engine is going to be noisy on any long cruise, since the wind don't always blow according to hoyle.
At that length, can she be trailered?
Electronics. Solar? Biminy? What complement of sails? Mighty small ice box, no reefer. No dingy. Lots of unanswered questions. 73 74 though, usually means a thick hull, which is good. Narrow beam but what is your need? Cramped for a live aboard depending on your claustrophobia level? But is all you want is recreation, and you have time and money on your hands?
I have to confess that when I saw the $5K price I was expecting a true floating disaster. I was presently surprised that the boat is essentially sound. Nothing you showed requires a lot of money just elbow grease. Overall the sole and refinishing the interior wood work are the big jobs and they are not that big. You could rip the old sole out and put in a teak and holly (plywood) sole for around $1K (a couple of sheets of teak and holly plywood and a quart of quality varnish). If you wanted to get out sailing on the cheap just rip the nasty cork out, sand the substrate and put a couple coats of Porch and Floor paint down and go sailing for under $100. All the other wood work looks like a day or two with a heat gun and scraper and sand paper, then 2 weeks of varnishing for a couple of hours a day. I bet the hull could be made to look pretty good with just a serious compounding and buffing. The boot stripe could use some sanding and a coat of paint, but that isn't required to sail the boat away. New lifelines represent about $500 for wire and some Suncor fittings. However, an inspection of the existing lifelines might show no signs of corrosion (cracks and staining on vinyl, etc.) which would allow you to put that off for a few years. This looks like a great opportunity for someone who can do a bit of DIY and then go sailing. The boat looks to be documented (no state numbers). It looks like it will cost about $300 for Abel's to splash her. If someone buys the boat now,they could be sailing away for under $6K (purchase price, insurance, documentation transfer, state excise tax/registration until the new document arrives and launch). I would expect the price to go up by a couple of grand if the boat isn't sold by the end of October since she will go back under cover for the winter.
Well said, sir, and I agree with everything you have said with respect to getting her sailing. Obviously, she’s not turn-key but the big stuff is good to go. As always, thank you for your thoughtful responses and comments.
Todd, Elbow grease may be free, but I just bought a 1 quart 3-part kit of Awl-Bright for $220 at defender. Even Schooner varnish is nearly $100. Please disclose to the idiots how many quarts this boat might need, for a starter, then $ for Sails running rigging, electronics, sandblasting, barrier coating and bottom paint, engine and electrical upgrades.
Marine supplies have gotten ridiculously expensive because of exclusive retail distribution contracts thanks to Kellogg Marine who has every boater by the short hairs and most don't even know it. They might be sailing by october and sinking in november in that POS
@@SurfBandFan If you strip the topsides wood completely, you can get 6-8 coats on from 2 quarts and have most of the second quart left for the interior. Of course, the varnish is a 100% cosmetic issue and it can wait until spring when varnish goes on sale here on Mount Desert Island. I paid about $30 a quart last spring for Pettit Captains varnish. Not the best varnish but it works. No need to rush into cosmetic work. Incidentally why did you buy Awl Brite? If I wanted a super hard 2 part varnish I would have bought Epifanes 2 part for less than half the money. That said my go to varnish for exterior work, unless I get something else on sale super cheap, is Epifanes high gloss. Defender sells it for $48 a liter. When you get to revarnishing down below use something cheap like Captains gloss for build coats then put on two coats of Epifanes rubbed effect as a top coat.
The comment was that the sails are "in good shape". So why not sail with them for a season before buying new. New sails for that boat will be under $4K anyway so that isn't much. As far as electronics go I didn't see a plotter, but a Raymarine Element 7s can be had for $550 today. That is a perfectly serviceable plotter with built in North American charts. If you don't like the Furuno radar the Quantum radar for the Raymarine element 7s is $1,750 at Defender. I don't see that it needs any additional electronics. True the radar is an older Furuno, but that doesn't mean it is non functional. I would move it to a swing out bracket in the companionway, but that is cheap and easy. The running rigging looks serviceable from what I could see. It might benefit from a good wash, but what I could see in the video looked OK. As far as blasting the bottom goes, all I can say is: Why if there is no sign of blisters? If the hull doesn't have blisters, there is zero reason to barrier coat it. If the hull penetrations are in good shape that boat is not going to sink. It would take about 10 minutes max to check the thru hulls, stuffing box and have a look at the hose connections and the hoses themselves. You might want to buy some new hose clamps but they are cheap. What engine upgrades? A nearly new, low hour Universal diesel will run for years. As far as electrical upgrades, wire is not that expensive. If the batteries are OK. I see no issues. What electrical do you need anyway - lights, pressure water pump, propane detector with solenoid shut off wiring and your electronics. If you want to go fancy buy a couple of 100 watt solar panels and a Victron MPPT controller. $350-$400 or so including wiring. As it is currently set up, that boat doesn't need much electrical. As long as what is there is not a fire hazard, it will do for the first season or two.
I know nothing about this stuff, but I do wonder...
How much would it cost to both purchase this boat and then have a reputable boat yard make her perfct for bluewater ? With ALL the latest, start of the art electronics, all new lines and whatever misc. Gear it needs and made clean and reconditioned, made new again if you will ?
And to move it or sail is to Galveston Texas ?
Anybody ?
It would cost A LOT! Better to find one closer to TX...
Where is the boat located
Abel Boatyard in Northeast Harbor, Maine. The seller’s contact info is in the description below the video. Let me know if you can’t access it.
Is it still available?
I believe she is. Can you access the seller’s contact info below the video? If not, email him at compassmarinesurveys@gmail.com
Seriously interested here. Seriously...
Contact the seller! He’s a marine surveyor and can answer all questions about the boat. Very nice guy! Thanks for watching.
@@boatfools I sent an email. But I am still getting ahead of myself. If it doesn't sell by next summer we'll see what happens. Just as an FYI I'm looking to retire summer 2025 (or 26 depending) and live on a boat. I lived on a 31ft in Mexico during the pandemic. Got boring sometimes so I want to be moored offshore from villages and towns to frequent. Less than 30 minutes by kayak to local markets, etc.
Not a bad boat, but I think your presentation could be misleading to the uninitiated. I would hesitate to call rigging that is 10 years old "new." I would also be cautious of any engine that is not new with that few hours - it is not good for a diesel engine to sit unused for long periods of time. My guess is once you started working through it you could easily drop $75K getting this boat ship shape, not including dozens if not 100s of hours cleaning and doing brightwork. Far from a "$5K" boat! I would rather spend $35k and be out sailing tomorrow without a huge to do list. Also - how did the water intrusion occur and what's stopping it from happening again?
In all fairness, the boat was used last season, so it hasn’t been sitting idle. So the engine has been used and is 100% functioning as it should. I am definitely clear that the boat needs work. I also state that the mast and standing rigging were new within the past 10 years. For a mast, that’s pretty darn good. As far as the standing rigging and turnbuckles, not only does it look great, typically spars and all are removed in the offseason NE. So the 10 year rule of thumb is really misleading up here. It gets light usage relative to a boat, say, in Florida. Lastly, this isn’t a boat for the uninitiated, but one for someone with solid DIY skills and a modest budget. As I say in the video, one could sail away in this boat tomorrow. Does she need work? 100%. But none of it has to happen immediately. Go sailing, have fun, and plan for the future. Sails are all in good to great shape.
@@boatfools At the high price of mast unstep, storage and re-step, I think your "typically spars and all are removed in the offseason NE." is pure speculation. If they could have afforded it, the boat would not have been left uncovered in the winter, so IMHO I doubt they spent the extra $1500 to have the mast pulled each season. Cut the BS "in all fairness" to the next guy.
@@SurfBandFan I store my boat 6 miles from that yard and they take the spars down on every boat they haul every year. My round trip cost for haul, unstep spars (I have a ketch), restep spars and relaunch is about $1,600. If I had one spar it would be less. There are two other yards within 5 miles of that yard where they unstep the spars on every boat. We have serious winter storms here and no yard locally will let you sit in the yard spars up when the boat will definitely see 60-80 knots of wind over the winter. It is not unusual for standing rigging here to last 30+ years. Yeah, if you were going to sail around the world, new standing rigging would be called for, but a Tartan 34C is hardly a world cruiser.
@@todddunn945 will love to see the pictures when you are done with the restoration
@@SurfBandFan Huh?
I get a survey done and then a firm price from a boatyard to bring that vessel up to snuff. Then I'd add their quotation to the $5,000 before I'd start calling it a bargain...
You must get a survey done. Of course. Of note, the seller is a marine surveyor, so hopefully he’s not selling a heap to the first sucker with $5k. But, remember, outside of what a survey might unearth, none of the cosmetics items needs to be addressed immediately. You get an engine that’s been gone through, a new alternator, a reasonably newer mast and standing rigging, three sails in great condition, a new centerboard pin, and a new rudder bearing. The boat can be dropped in the water and be sailed away. The rest can be done over time. So, yes, for $5k - pretty sweet. Is she in bristol condition? Heck no. But for $5k, that ain’t happening… Appreciate your comment and your view!
IMHO people who are looking at a $5000.00 boat are probably not going to be looking at a yard to do the work. This seems like a great bargain for a DIY person.
Exactly right! Thanks for watching and for your comment!
You Must Love Working on a Boat .
I find it cathartic!
Mold... bleach ?
Hot tip: save your eyes and lungs. Use white vinegar... heck you can make pickles with it as well ;)
Excellent tip! And I love pickles! Sad story: this boat sold and ended up on the bricks during its passage to her new home. New owner was ok, but rudder post bent. Hopefully she’ll sail again.
Location ?
Abel Marine, Northeast Harbor, Maine…
I can smell the mold from here watching the video. Mold mitigation 10k.
Actually there was no smell at all…
@JohnSmith-cx7zt - Seriously?
"Mold mitigation" on a fibreglass sailboat involves thorough scrubbing of all surfaces, locker interiors, and bilges with bleach, then wiping them down with white vinegar when they are dry.
Then any cushions stored aboard should be replaced.
However, he clearly states in the video that there is none of the tell-tale odor of serious mold on this boat.
UHG!
Sold
She went fast! Worse still, she ended up on the bricks with her new owner. Luckily boat and sailor were ok (bent rudder post was the extent of the damage, I believe). Keep checking back. We come across some pretty sweet deals and boats from time to time!
A 52l1 year old boat
Re: Wheel placement - Obviously you have never sailed a Pearson 10M. Lol. Jib/ genoa track and Spinnaker track.
I haven’t but there’s one for sale up here and it looks very compelling…
That’s a deal on a boat that has the major $ items all working and recently done. Skookum shape and design for 5k.
Canadian Ken says “skookum”…are you from the Great White North?
Not for me. Water damage is very hard to fully address.
50 years and getting older. , He says it need some work , , Only 34 feet, It-s small
Could you give the seller contact information please. Thanks
Compassmarinesurveys@gmail.com. Let me know if you have any issues reaching him.
How bout a 44 for 10k 😢😢😢
Biete 10.- €
New is not 10 years old, bud.
New is just bought.
Pretty good boat for a young chap
Best thing to do is scrap the boat, not worth $5k since it would take another $10k to bring it up to a state of use. Better to just buy a boat that is in good shape.
Where on earth are you going to find a boat "in good shape" for $15k? You can't even find a good sailing/camping dinghy for that!
This is my first viewing of your channel; you appear to be a worthy successor to the "Captain". You do need to work on being concise, correct (10 year old rigging is close to EOL, not new unless the boat spent 10 years in the desert.) and cutting back on repetition. You made too many references to the price & repeated below deck most of what you said on deck about the engine.
Appreciate the feedback. But to be clear, I said the standing ringing and mast were new within the last 10 years. Considering when buying a used sailboat one may have no idea when the standing rigging was replaced; knowing it was replaced within the past 10 years is invaluable information. Ten years is not near the EOL - it all depends on the boat, its location, usage, and maintenance. I believe mine is 20 years old and it has been inspected and is fine. The reason for this is the boat is in Maine, and the mast is unstepped after every season. It gets 4 months of “use” a year. That’s not to stay it can’t develop issues, it certainly can. It just hasn’t. My stepfather has rod rigging on his boat and he bought the boat new in 1985. I think he finally replaced the standing rigging in 2010, or later. We raced that boat up and down the Maine coast for decades, raced it in Block Island, RI, etc., and have been through some nasty stuff. Never an issue. But, alas, the key here is that it’s a rule of thumb you’re talking about. A good and competent surveyor should go over the boat. As important, a rigger should be hired to go up the mast and check it all out. No doubt about it. As for the mast, if someone told me the mast on my boat was less than 10 years old, I would think I’d just won the lottery. A new mast for my boat is $10k! I know this because inquired about getting a new one. Nope. Keeping the old one! I appreciate your email and I hope you keep watching!
73?? 5K? Junker..
The most expensive boat is a cheap boat.
No, the most expensive boat is a “free boat”
There's always a reason why a boat is cheap. Tartan made strong beautiful boats in the 70's when I was actively sailing. As I remember it, they were made in the Midwest for Great Lakes sailing which often as not turns into a hairy chested adventure in a real hurry.
No, the saying is nothing costs more than a free boat. I believe you are buying a floating boat with good engine and motor... perfect for heading to the Caribbean.
Such a deal! Looks like it needs a lot more than it has. Noticed you kept the camera from pointing at the cocpit, overhead and windows. Leaks maybe?
For every dollar in, you'd be lucky to get 10 cents out of it. Even berth cushions will cost a grand or more. NOT FAIR ti ignorant U-TUBE Romantics
Had the exact same thought. Why no shot up above?Where was the water intrusion? You never went back and showed the “auto helm” as you called it nor any talk about it. ?
Water intrusion was from a cockpit drain that froze and separated over the winter. Then water drained from cockpit directly into the bilge. Sheesh, my friend, I simply forgot to go back to the autohelm, and it was nothing fancy. Just a belt and gyroscope-type. Like the autohelm 3000. I didn't have Canadian Ken helping me and I missed some stuff. Nothing nefarious going on...