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Giles – The advice given by the previous responders is right on the money. I am just concluding a total repower project + of a Bertram 31 FBC. I am extremely pleased with the quality of work and project management by Seaboard Marine and highly recommend them if you are considering this route. It was a learning experience for me that I will not forget and one that I am glad to have experienced. It is interesting to read your post as I was in your same position approx 2 years ago. I was very excited about this project and in reflection I learned I was selling myself on the idea that costs of the project were best case scenario or better put, least cost alternative before the project started. However, once we got started I wanted nothing but the best (SB Marine can deliver) for my boat. I learned this cost more than what my wishful thinking was praying for. My suggestion is to establish your total project budget then work backwards to see if the budget is adequate and the timing is right. Buying a good boat that has been well maintained and serviced with the motors you want already in the boat is by far the fastest route to getting out on the water. You might pay a little more for that well maintained boat but there is a very good reason for that price difference. This website is an awesome resource and is filled with great articles that you can educate yourself about modern marine powered vessels. Use this info to help guide your purchase decision. I have read and re-read many of them and I seem to pick up more useful info every time. I was told by a reputable boat broker that if you are buying a used marine boat, you can expect to add on up to and more ( case dependent) a third of the final total purchase cost of the boat for repairs/upgrades once you take ownership that were not obvious or overlooked on the surveys. This number was hard for me to believe 2 + years ago but today it seems very in line with what you can expect to pay.
Niels
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I thought I would add to my post to clarify why I am putting my project on this forum. This project is a goal I have been working towards for a long time. I have the opportunity to go forward with it and I want to do it right. Over the past couple of years while doing research I came across the project completed by Seaboard Marine, “Shooter” awhile back and started reading various forums on this site. This is what led me to Seaboard Marine and Tony to see what theyĀ could do to help build my dream boat, a 31′ Bertram. The intended use of my boat is sport fishing Southern California Islands and occasional dive trips. I am reaching out to the Seaboard Marine community for input as this project progresses as I value your practical feedback on various topics posted. I have an open mind to new ideas, my primary criteria when considering each issue of this project is function and durability. I do not have an unlimited budget and acknowledge I will have to make some tough choices. First consideration is entirely focused on Structural, Mechanical and Electrical. Once we clear this hurdle, I will have to evaluate what accessories and cosmetic issues to address. Looking forward to your thoughts and advice as we progress.
Niels
1 user thanked author for this post.
