Beneteau 32 motor sailor - what look for before buy?

[Whatsleft]

Hey folks,

Looking to buy my first sailboat. Although extremely handy, I am hoping someone on here can give me some guidance on the above.

I am looking at one that looks to be completely original. Other than the obvious replacement of the mast stays, cables, that kind of stuff, is there anything that I particularly need to check? For instance, on some boats the support for the masts were wood or aluminum that has a tendency to rot/erode, etc.

Anything to look at would be helpful!!

Thanks all.

 

[ScottS]

Welcome to the forums! I don't have the years of experience that many on this forum seem to have, but I will make a suggestion anyway since I purchased my first "real" sailboat just last season. I think most will suggest you get the opinion of a surveyor before you purchase a boat, especially your first. I hired a someone who went over the boat inside and out, top and bottom ( have the boat hauled out out if at all possible ). They won't necessarily catch everything, but if you get someone with experience they can help you determine the condition of the boat as well as what needs to be immediately fixed vs. fixes that can wait. They should also be able to give you a good estimate on price. Assuming your location is correct (Centerport, NY?) I would bet there are several good surveyors to choose from around you.

Hope this helps!
Scott