Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

[igloo]

Another newbie question. Just curious if you good folks who know boats would care to give me your opinion on a 58 foot 1979 Hatteras Trawler. We are not looking for speed, and I know that cruising speed is about 10 with the Detroit 6-71N diesels (which I have read are pretty reliable diesels). However, since I'm gathering information, any opinions would be appreciated. Obviously a marine survey would be in order on any boat we buy as well as gathering any other pertinent information. With any boat we buy, we are looking at only going no further than 20 miles offshore and possibly cruising the intercoastal waterway so. Since we would not be in any hurry, the trawler idea just gave me something to consider.

 

[scoutabout]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

To paraphrase that cornball Cruise movie of a few years ago...you had me at trawler... Throwing Hatteras in there doesn't hurt either. That's my idea of liveaboard bliss right there. And that's no inshore boat either. I'd think nothing of the use you are considering, prudent weather watching notwithstanding on any voyage.

Now, having said that -- if you are new to boating...or even semi-new...that is one big mother of a ship to be handling. Also, something that age could have plenty to go wrong with it, but I also know there is a good chance it was well-loved too. Just like the big Grand Banks beauties you see around from the seventies and late sixties, some of them are in fabulous shape.

Hard to go wrong with a couple of tried and true diesels too.

Nevertheless, due diligence with a competent marine surveyor is a must. You'd probably be well advised to haul it for a complete going over.

But whatever you do...post pics!

 

[phwrd]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

Have learned the hard way, Boat means "brake out another Thousand".

That said, due dilligance it that way to go. Survey is a must. What is it going to take to make it able to run out safely and get it back home.

 

[igloo]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

To paraphrase that cornball Cruise movie of a few years ago...you had me at trawler... Throwing Hatteras in there doesn't hurt either. That's my idea of liveaboard bliss right there. And that's no inshore boat either. I'd think nothing of the use you are considering, prudent weather watching notwithstanding on any voyage.

Now, having said that -- if you are new to boating...or even semi-new...that is one big mother of a ship to be handling. Also, something that age could have plenty to go wrong with it, but I also know there is a good chance it was well-loved too. Just like the big Grand Banks beauties you see around from the seventies and late sixties, some of them are in fabulous shape.

Hard to go wrong with a couple of tried and true diesels too.

Nevertheless, due diligence with a competent marine surveyor is a must. You'd probably be well advised to haul it for a complete going over.

But whatever you do...post pics!

Yeah, sorry about the trawler name. I should have indicated LRC even though it was in the Trawler category when I first checked into it on the website.

 

[Ned L]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

As has been said, Hatteras is a well respected name that builds a real solid boat. One thing to keep in mind with a trawler (which you seem to be aware of) is that they are a displacement , hull speed boat ONLY. If you need to get there a bit faster, you can't. Whereas any semi-displacement design can be run at hull speed and get the ecomomy of operation that a trawler provides, and you CAN get there faster if you need to. ... That said, trawler designs also give you a lot of interior space, are generally sea kindly, and are good looking boats. If a good size trawler is what you are in the market for, then I think you are looking at a reall good candidate. Just have here checked out well by someone who knows the type WELL. - Those 6-71's are not the most efficient engines, but you can get parts anywhere for them and they are one of the most proven designs in the world. Good luck

 

[Mike Robinson]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

... Just have here checked out well by someone who knows the type WELL...

Yes, it's critical to choose a surveyor who is an expert with the type of vessel that you are having surveyed. Unless things have changed recently, pretty much anyone can hang up a sign and call themselves a surveyor.

A vessel of this vintage and size can be very expensive to own, expect the purchase price to be just the beginning of your expenses. Kinda like a down payment.

I have operated several vessels over the years with 671s and can say they are usually reliable and "relatively" inexpensive to repair but are not the quietest diesel around.

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

A 79 LRC is a great boat and I for one would love to own one


Check out this owners forum
http://www.samsmarine.com/forums/index.php

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Opinion on 1979 Hatteras Trawler

Something to consider is the cost of osmotic blister repair. Boats of that vintage are sure to have osmotic blisters and they are time-consuming and expensive to repair correctly. Bear in mind hey CAN easily be repaired poorly, and will look good for awhile, but will cause problems in the near term. I would not let blisters deter you, just plan for the expense.

I highly recommend a subscription to Passage Maker Magazine. The technical articles are top notch.