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Hi all,

I have an opportunity to purchase an older houseboat that will be used as a fishing camp. It resides in a slip that is not covered but has electric and water run to the boat. The rent is CHEAP and so is the boat. I know the prior owner of the vessel and he vouches for the soundness as far as the hull integrity and structural aspectsof the boat.

It is not under power nor do I care since this will be a place for me to stay while I am on fishing expeditions. It is in fresh water and well protected from weather although it is uncovered. The boat appears to need scraping and repainting on both the hull and deck/deck rails. I could probably get by without it but really would like to see this as it would make a huge improvement. The boat is 40" and has a _meta_l hull and deck. Can anyone give me a clue as to how much a project like this would run? Also any "gotchas" to watch out for?

Thanks!

Kevin

Read this:

http://www.houseboatingworld.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=2 896&PN=1

That's frightening. I know the former owner and he is a personal friend. He also owns the houseboat in the slip next to this one.

Is there a process I should go thru to have it checked out? How much do things cost to scrape and paint if the hull is OK? So many questions... I really appreciate the info!

Have it surveyed by a reputable marine surveyor!

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Thanks...I did find some info on the boat. It is a 42' 1969 Stardust Cruiser steel hull with a 6 cyl merc. that doesn't run which doesn't bother me because it will just be a place to sleep. Does anyone know anything about this boat? What do they sell for in fair condition but needing paint. (assumming the surveyor says it is ok)

This boat may be solid as a rock, however most 1969 Stardusts have long ago rusted away into houseboat heaven. If you buy it you will probably be the last owner and have to pay disposal fees when your done with it. (about $2000) You will need insurance in case it sinks and has to be raised. (The environmental people will be on you like sweat in sunshine)

Look well before you leap.

Many people with old boats are willing to give them away to avoid disposal, dockage and storage fees.

They usually prey on newbies who don't have a clue with "the deal of a lifetime"

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Thanks again for your response. I do know that this boat has been for sale for 2 years and had few nibbles. The guy wants $7000 and has renovated the inside completely. It is in an area where it will never/seldom even be seen. This is a marina tucked away that has no boat traffic other than the people who stay there. I think I can get ot for $4000 or less. How much does a surveyor cost? I have been around the water and boats all of my life but have never heard of this...

Note: most steel boats rot out from the inside. Look in the bildge under the floors etc. Flaking rust in the bilge means RUN.