Wanted to buy 46' mid 80's Convertible

[Vince]

Hello All,

I'm actively in the market for a mid-80's convertible. Ideal candidates would be 45' 46' and maybe even the 43' models. I usually try to buy on the cheap, but I'm looking for a nice example of an unmolested boat. If the boat has been changed in any way, a repower would be nice and any decor must be done classically in wood, and not painted or papered over. You guys know the series of each model, but since I want to keep this one for a while, i'd prefer one of the boats with a single-skin hull, bottom and sides. I do realize that Hatteras never really had hullside coring issues.
By the way, I've always favored Hatteras and still do, however would consider a nice Bertram, Viking or Post-2 from after 88. Mostly, looking for a solid, classic vessel with good maintenance and power.
Can't need exterior paint or rebuilds. Not into that kind of aggravation or expense.

Oh, by the way....East Coast only and Mid-Atlantic is best.

Thanks,
Vince

[rsmith]

Depends what you’re using it for personally the best offshore boat is the 46HP 82-83 I ran one new out of cape may running the offshore canyons new it hit 28 kts cruise at 26. The 84-85 45 can’t,compare in a seaway

[madhatter1]

If you do a google search eventually you will find a thread from this forum where this discussion took place. Previous owner of my boat (Capt Dave Disesa) chimes in and pointed out all the differences in the 82-84 46's VS the more price pointed 45's that came after it. Worth looking for and great read on the vintage convertibles being sought out.

Mine still can hit nearly 28 knots. That only happens when mechanic is on board and we are PM testing. Fantastic boat.

[Vince]

If you do a google search eventually you will find a thread from this forum where this discussion took place. Previous owner of my boat (Capt Dave Disesa) chimes in and pointed out all the differences in the 82-84 46's VS the more price pointed 45's that came after it. Worth looking for and great read on the vintage convertibles being sought out.

Mine still can hit nearly 28 knots. That only happens when mechanic is on board and we are PM testing. Fantastic boat.

Madhatter, thanks! I know Dave (or should I say, I knew him!) He delivered a 52C from FL to MD for me about 8 years ago. Very knowledgeable guy and a great Detroit resource. He's answered several questions for me on Sam's. I'll have to try to find that discussion.

[rsmith]

Quite honestly at this point there’s not a lot out there that’s been unmolested or not beat.

[Eddieclemons]

Buy something with easy engine room access, you will be in there more that the stateroom.