Looking at a Newport 30

[Tattoobob]

Hi folks,I'm looking at a 1978 Newport 30 right now and am wondering if there's anything special I should look for. There's no engine in it but it was set up for an outboard and all the control cables are still there. The engine compartment now has a large plastic water tank in it. I have a 9.9 Evinrude Yachttender that I think will push it around just fine. Any opinions on that? The boat was just hauled and bottom painted and I'm told there's no blistering. The prop shaft is scored and pretty much junk but if I'm going to use an outboard for now that doesn't matter much.No cushions <we do all our own canvas work anyway>, the stove and oven have been gutted <Like I'd ever use an oven> but the interior seems to be in pretty decent shape. A main and jib that both seem to be nice and stiff, nice dodger and covers etc.Every boat has their own problem areas and thats what I'm trying to find out here. Opinions please? BTW this boat is in So CAl and they're asking 3000 for it but I think I could pick it up for 2000-2500. Overall with even with no motor I think thats a pretty good price but I've learned my lesson on other boats and want all the info I can get before I make an offer.Any help or opinions will be greatly appriciated.ThanksTattoobob1@earthlink.netS/V InkMaster IIYamaha 29Wilmington, Ca

[BarryL 1986 Oday 35]

Hi,Sounds like an interesting project. Good luck to you.you should take a look at the Capital Yachts web sitehttp://capitalyachts.info/Barry

[Capt Ron;-)]

Tatto, unless you are an expert with glass or worked in a boat-yard for unteen years...better get a survey, I know it is cheap, but you may be buying into a huge headache here.Check the SAMS website or call Mike Pyzel down there. There are so many problems that CAN be you need the hull inspected at least.A Newport is a good yacht, not high-end but good Polyester constructed plastic classic.A survey will likely bring the price down, and give you a better 'feeling' all round.These boats, missing and engine, mast of "need TLC" are far from easy to sell and it ain't spring yet...Offer them 1,500. cash, and take your chances..;-)

[Allan Warren]

This sounds like a good project, as you already know project boats can become very expensive. Look for water damage, blisters, deck cracks, cracks in the bilge indicate grounding, wiring (I have seen some very strange done with the wiring). I have a 1978 Newport 27 with a 8 h.p. inboard and has plenty of power, a 9.9 should be sufficent if no major current. Book value on a 1978 is 13,700-15,800 in very good condition.Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!Allan WarrenLighthouse Marine Surveyors