Anyone on San Juan Island that can help me look at a boat?

chatski

New member
Hopeful new owner of a 19 here. I’m pretty novice, but have been looking at/for a C Dory to cruise and fish southern Puget Sound. I’ll be in San Juan 20 March looking at a boat, but know close to nothing besides what I’ve been able to glean from friends.

If you’re local, even to Anacortes, have some time around 11 on 20 March, and willing to help me understand what I’m getting myself into, and what to check out, please get in touch. I’ll take phone calls, emails, PMs here, voodoo dolls, and thoughts and prayers.

Aaron
 
Aron, Welcome aboard to the C Brat Family--it is a wonderful real extended family. What you propose is certainly a good idea. I would also have a marine survey done, if you are going to buy the boat. It is customary to sign a sails agreement, deposit of 10% so the owner does not sell to another as you are getting your ducks in order. The contract should include the offer (price), the terms, and way to pay. (For example the 10% subject to sea trial and survey). The remainder due at time of delivery, often wire transfer or cashier's check. Some actually have paid cash. If I am a seller, I want a cashier's check varified by the seller's bank.
 
Bob, that’s great advice. I feel like I may be rushing it a bit then. Sea trial isn’t exactly feasible in the next couple of weeks, but I feel like the asking price, compared to what is stated as included, and my assumptions of the boat condition, probably make land testing low risk. I would love to know absolute ‘no-gos’, or have a conversation in the morning as I’m driving about four hours there to look at it. I’m ready to drag it off the island tomorrow unless something glaring jumps out.
 
Im arriving San Juan at 10 am today (20March). I’m available anytime after now for a phone call if anyone would like to help me with some basic inspection question. I plan to check fiberglass condition, (I don’t have a moisture meter), test run engines, test hydraulic steering and trim, volt test electrical system and accessories, and jack up the trailer axle for a quick inspection before I drag it home. If anyone wants to talk me off the ledge, I’m more than open to the conversation. PM and I’ll respond as immediately as I can with phone and direct contact.

Aaron
 
Appreciate the responses. A very kind member talked me through a bunch of things, and we video chatted at the boat. It’s currently hooked up and waiting a ferry ride home. Thanks for all the help.
 
Congrats Aaron, I have had two 19’s in the last 20 years and they are one of my favorite boats. I currently have a Venture 23 that I love, but I do miss the 19’s. I think it is a great boat for fishing and cruising in the South Sound, and further afield.
I live in University Place and I keep my C-Dory at Chambers Bay Marina which is in Steilacoom. If you would have any questions about your new to you 19, I would be happy to give them my best shot. I have purchased 3 used C-Dories and have done a fair amount of work on them.

Robbi
 
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