New and Used Classic Motor Boats For Sale

Search our massive selection of classic motor boats for sale from across the UK. For those of you that like something with a little more character, the classic boat is definitely the one for you. They tend to be build from timber or a timber/GRP combo and usually require a bit more love to keep them in tip-top condition.

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Search our massive selection of classic motor boats for sale from across the UK. For those of you that like something with a little more character, the classic boat is definitely the one for you. They tend to be build from timber or a timber/GRP combo and usually require a bit more love to keep them in tip-top condition.

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Graham Bunn 53 Classic Motor Yacht for sale

Graham Bunn 53 Classic Motor Yacht for sale

Graham Bunn 53 Classic Motor Yacht for sale

£ 295,000.00

Graham Bunn 53 Classic Motor Yacht for sale
'Vanessa' is more than a simple motor yacht, this fine craft is a living piece of history which gives a lesson in craftsmanship that modern boats could take note of. Built in 1953 by Graham Bunn boatyard in Wroxham, Norfolk. "Vanessa" or "Träumerei II", as she was originally called, was custom built for the Chairman of Graham Bunn Ltd. Designed by R.M Martins and made from the finest Teak imported from Burma before the Second World War. Legendary singer/songwriter, George Formby, who bought the smaller 43" "Träumerei I" was so impressed with his yacht's bigger sister that he had a sister ship commissioned named "Lady Beryl". She was later taken to France under the ownership of Sir William Steward before she moved to Mallorca and was owned and enjoyed by Vanessa Devereux, sister of Sir Richard Branson, and renamed "Vanessa's Folley". Her current owner found her in Hayling Island in 2010 after two years of searching for the perfect classic yacht and instantly fell in love. From here she underwent an extensive refit including new engines, all new electrics, new rear deck beams, new windows, a new generator, extensive maintenance to all timber work and much much more. Full imagery of history and works available. "Vanessa' is a true gentleman's classic motor yacht with a rich and storied history that has been cleverly modernised without taking away this boat's original charm. Simply put, they don't make them like this any more.
Category: Motor Boats, Classic

Built: 1953

Length: 53 ft

Country: England
£ 295,000.00

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Questions to ask when buying a Classic Boat

What is a classic boat?

There is no universally agreed definition of what a classic boat is. However, there are a few things to think about if you are looking to buy one. The age of the boat, quality of design and build are all factors in qualifying a boat as a classic. In addition, you should also consider an individual boat’s history.

Someone who enjoys bringing something back, making it work and enjoying it for what it truly is will take pleasure in restoring a classic boat. There are many different styles of classic boat available. If you are thinking of buying a classic boat, doing your research and exploring the different types of boat available is especially important.

What is your budget?

Once you know your budget and the type of classic boat you are looking for, the first place to go is the internet. You will find classic boats on sale either through private sellers, dealers or brokers.

Using a good brokerage company when buying a boat can have many advantages. Reputable brokers will have a great deal of experience in buying classic boats for customers, enabling them to detect a great deal when they see one and they can help to make the buying process as stress free as possible.

Alternatively, you can buy through a private seller or dealer. You will always get more accurate information on the true nature and quirks of a boat from the owner themselves and they can often be more flexible. Avoid private sellers and dealers that do not have a credible reputation.

What are the estimated running costs of owning a classic boat?

Like with any type of boat but especially important when buying a classic sailing boat, it is not just about the money you pay for it. It is important to factor in the running and restoration costs of a classic boat into your budget. Additional costs for a classic boat can include:

Restoration costs
Surveys
Mooring Fees
Boat maintenance
Fuel and Heating
Insurance
These costs will vary from boater to boater and boat to boat. Doing your research and working out the average running costs of owning a classic boat and how you plan to use it is important.
You will also need to find a place to keep your boat. Some marinas may not have available berths etc and mooring fees will vary considerably.

Has the boat had a recent a survey?

When buying a classic boat, it is especially important that you conduct a professional survey on the boat. This should be done by a qualified marine surveyor and will show any potential maintenance issues, faults on the hull and with the boat’s internal systems and will highlight any issues the boat may have so you have peace of mind that you know exactly what you are buying.

It can also help you to negotiate the price and will be useful with insurance companies, some of whom will not insure a boat without understanding its condition.

What documents and paperwork will you need to buy a classic boat?

Having the correct paperwork in place when you buy any boat is important.
Check all the documents and the boat’s VAT status. You should receive the original VAT paid invoice, which is essential if you want to sell the boat in the future.

Once the survey has been concluded and the negotiations settled, you should receive the proof of ownership, Bills of Sale for the last 5 years at minimum, Certificate of Registry, if any, and proof of VAT status. Keep all these documents in a safe place since they are not easy to replace. Make sure you have all of these in place when you buy..