fixing up old sailboat

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How to restore a classic sailboat

Restoring a classic sailboat can be a fulfilling and rewarding process, allowing you to create a personalized vessel for exploring the open sea with your family.

How to Restore a Classic Sailboat

Restoring a classic sailboat is a labor of love that can bring immense satisfaction and pride to those who embark on this journey. It’s a chance to breathe new life into a vessel that has seen better days, and to create a unique and personalized space for you and your family to enjoy the open sea. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of restoring a classic sailboat, from finding the right boat to the final touches that make it truly your own.

Table of Contents

Finding the right sailboat, assessing the condition, creating a restoration plan, hull and deck repairs, interior restoration, rigging and sails, electrical and plumbing systems, engine and propulsion, final touches.

The first step in restoring a classic sailboat is finding the right boat. This can be a challenging process, as there are many factors to consider, such as the size, age, and condition of the boat, as well as your budget and personal preferences.

When searching for a sailboat, consider the following:

• Size : Think about how much space you and your family will need, both for living and storage. A larger boat may offer more comfort and amenities, but it will also require more work and expense to restore and maintain.
• Age : Older boats may have more character and history, but they may also require more extensive restoration work. Be prepared to invest more time and money into an older boat.
• Condition : Assess the overall condition of the boat, including the hull, deck, rigging, sails, and interior. A boat in poor condition may be a good candidate for restoration, but it will also require more work and expense.
• Budget : Determine your budget for both the purchase of the boat and the restoration process. Keep in mind that restoration costs can quickly add up, so it’s important to have a realistic understanding of what you can afford.

Once you’ve found a sailboat that meets your criteria, it’s time to assess its condition in more detail. This will help you determine the extent of the restoration work required and whether the project is feasible for your budget and skill level.

Consider hiring a marine surveyor to conduct a thorough inspection of the boat. They can provide valuable insights into the condition of the hull, deck, rigging, sails, and other components, as well as identify any potential safety issues or structural problems.

Take note of any areas that require immediate attention, such as leaks, cracks, or signs of rot. These issues should be addressed before any cosmetic work is done, as they can compromise the integrity of the boat and lead to more serious problems down the line.

With a clear understanding of the boat’s condition, you can now create a restoration plan. This should outline the work that needs to be done, the order in which it should be completed, and an estimated timeline and budget for the project.

Start by prioritizing the most critical repairs, such as fixing leaks or addressing structural issues. Then, move on to less urgent tasks, such as cosmetic improvements and upgrades.

Be realistic about your abilities and the amount of time you can dedicate to the project. Restoring a sailboat can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, so it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you’re getting into before you begin.

The hull and deck are the foundation of your sailboat, and any issues with these components should be addressed as soon as possible. Common problems include cracks, blisters, and signs of rot or corrosion.

To repair cracks or holes in the hull or deck, you’ll need to clean the area thoroughly, remove any damaged material, and fill the void with an appropriate filler or epoxy. Once the repair has cured, sand the area smooth and apply a protective coating, such as paint or gelcoat.

For more extensive repairs, such as replacing large sections of the hull or deck, it may be necessary to consult with a professional boatyard or shipwright. They can provide guidance on the best materials and techniques for your specific boat and ensure that the repairs are done correctly.

Restoring the interior of your sailboat can be a rewarding process, as it allows you to create a comfortable and personalized space for you and your family. Start by assessing the condition of the interior, including the cabinetry, upholstery, and flooring.

If the cabinetry is in good condition, you may be able to simply refinish or paint the surfaces to give them a fresh look. If the cabinets are damaged or outdated, consider replacing them with new, custom-built units that meet your needs and preferences.

Upholstery can be cleaned or replaced, depending on its condition and your personal taste. New cushions, curtains, and other soft furnishings can make a big difference in the overall appearance and comfort of the interior.

Flooring options for sailboats include marine-grade carpet, vinyl, or teak. Choose a material that is durable, easy to clean, and complements the overall aesthetic of the boat.

The rigging and sails are essential components of your sailboat, and their condition will have a significant impact on the boat’s performance and safety. Inspect the rigging for signs of wear or damage, such as frayed lines, corroded fittings, or bent or cracked hardware. Replace any components that are in poor condition or no longer meet safety standards.

Sails should be inspected for tears, fraying, or signs of UV damage. Small repairs can often be made with sail tape or by sewing, but larger issues may require professional repair or replacement. Consider upgrading to modern sail materials and designs for improved performance and durability.

The electrical and plumbing systems on a classic sailboat may require updating or replacement to meet modern standards and ensure safety and reliability. Inspect the wiring, switches, and electrical components for signs of wear or damage, and replace any outdated or faulty parts.

Plumbing systems should be checked for leaks, corrosion, or other issues. Replace any damaged hoses, fittings, or fixtures, and consider upgrading to modern materials and designs for improved performance and ease of maintenance.

The engine and propulsion system are critical to the performance and safety of your sailboat. Inspect the engine for signs of wear or damage, and perform any necessary maintenance or repairs. This may include changing the oil and filters, replacing belts or hoses, or overhauling the entire engine.

The propeller and shaft should also be inspected for signs of wear or damage, and any issues should be addressed promptly. Consider upgrading to a modern, efficient propulsion system for improved performance and fuel efficiency.

With the major restoration work complete, it’s time to add the final touches that make your sailboat truly your own. This may include installing new electronics and navigation equipment, adding custom artwork or graphics, or outfitting the boat with personalized accessories and gear.

Take the time to celebrate your hard work and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Your restored classic sailboat is now ready for new adventures and memories with your family.

Restoring a classic sailboat is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that can provide you and your family with a unique and personalized vessel for exploring the open sea. By carefully assessing the condition of the boat, creating a detailed restoration plan, and tackling the project one step at a time, you can breathe new life into a once-neglected boat and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

12 Tips For Restoring an Old Boat: Costs, Time, And Expert Advice

Looking at restoring an old boat chris mccall shares his expert advice..

So, you’re thinking of buying an old boat and bringing her back to her former glory? Awesome! Get ready for hard work and frustration culminating in an ultra-rewarding experience.

Buying and refitting an old sailboat is totally worth it! You won’t build a ton of equity in the boat, but you will know every square inch of that vessel, and the skills you gain will be invaluable.

My wife and I just finished the three-year refit of our 1972 Nauticat 38, Drifter, and now live aboard in Portland Oregon. As soon as the weather cooperates, we plan to take him (Yep, Drifter’s a fella) south and begin cruising full-time.

Feel free to check out our progress along the way and the results of our labor; you can find us on YouTube at YouTube.com/SailingAdrift

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

Here are my top tips to help with your refit. Most I followed; some I wish I would have.

During The Buying Process

Get one of the best knives for sailing

Before you buy your perfect renovation project boat, here are a few tips to follow so you don’t fall short at the first hurdle.

#1 Know what you’re getting into

Refitting a boat is not an easy undertaking, and the single biggest thing keeping you from success is your tenacity to see it through. There are so many boats for sale, half-finished, because the undertaking was a lot more than their owners predicted. So….

#2 Plan, Plan, Plan.

This post is a great place to start. Start taking notes and tour as many boats as you can to gather ideas.

Talk to people that know. Read books. Read articles. Watch YouTube refit videos. Join social media groups focusing on refits, interior design, electrical systems, electronics, and boat makes you’re interested in.

I know the excitement is high but take a beat and make sure you make a logic driven decision based on research. There will be time to fall in love later.

#3 Make a core list of what you want from restoring an old boat

List the makes, lengths, characteristics, and price range and stick to it.

Then make a list of “nice to haves” and look for boats that have as many as you can find. If you go in with a clear understanding of what you want, and the deal breakers associated, it’s much easier to make a smart decision.

#4 Let someone else take the depreciation if you can

If you’re going to be refitting, you’ll be taking on plenty of depreciation as soon as you start installing your new electronics, appliances, and equipment, so minimize it by finding a boat where the previous owner has installed as much of this stuff as possible.

New engine? Awesome! Just upgraded all the navigation equipment? Great. New refrigeration unit? That helps. Let the last guy take the hit for 50 cents on the dollar.

Wondering how much sailboats cost ? Get a rough idea here.

#5 Buy cheap and pay cash if you can

Boats are not like houses. There isn’t nearly as much competition for boats that need a fair bit of work, because you won’t build a bunch of equity refitting like you would flipping a home.

Don’t expect to save tons of money refitting the boat yourself. You may save yourself a little but the real value is in the knowledge of the vessel and the skills you’ll gain.

So be ready to offer significantly less than asking, and don’t be surprised if they take it.

#6 Include a survey contingency and evaluate your prospective project from top to bottom

Do you have to hire a surveyor? No. But if you don’t, get ready to learn all you can about the process, and go over every square inch.

Know someone super knowledgeable you can ask to help? DO IT! Do not be afraid to walk away. Getting attached leads to bad decisions.

Now That You’ve Got Your Boat Restoration Project

So you’ve found your dream boat (to be!) Here are the next steps in restoring an old boat.

#7 Create a conservative budget

Take your number and pad it by 30%. It is all too easy to let costs get out of hand. Do your homework. The more knowledge that goes into that budget, the less costs will surprise you. Front end work pays huge dividends.

#8 Come up with an educated guess at the timeline in total work hours

And then multiply it by 4 (If you know someone who does this work a lot, take their estimate and double it; they are faster than you)!

Then break it down into phases to make the overall project less daunting. Tracking your working time in hours keeps focus and doesn’t punish you for life getting in the way.

I made a game of it by tracking my active work-on-the-boat time in hours with an app called Toggl. If you’re at all competitive, this really pushes you to keep getting out there to beat your weekly and monthly bests. Celebrate the small victories; don’t punish the shortcomings.

#9 Build in expandability, especially in your electoral system (think battery space)

Make sure you have spare breakers on your panel and room in your conduits. Always install pull strings. No one in the 70s could have imagined the electrical needs of the modern boat, so don’t make the same mistake.

Future you will thank you.

If you’re reinstalling batteries then check out the best lithium marine batteries . Aim for a slightly bigger bank than you think you’ll need! ⚡ We highly recommend BattleBorn LiFePO4 batteries ⚡

#10 Experiment with clever ideas for maximizing your space

Keep what works. Tweak what needs adjusting. And scrap the flops. This is your opportunity to get creative. Test your original ideas.

Copy what others have done on their boats and modify what you find when researching tiny living and RV sources. Sometimes building a custom solution is the right way to go, but they often don’t work as expected.

If a production solution is available, it may cost slightly more but will save you more in time and headache.

As an example, we built our own propane alarm and on/off solenoid because the commercially available one seemed so expensive (and I thought it was ugly).

Finding all the components took hours and hours, and when I had collected them all, I’d only saved about 25%. Installing everything, and getting the sniffer, switches, and solenoid to all work together, was a huge headache. If I could do it all again, I’d just buy that ugly thing.

#11 Stick with it

The paradox of a major boat refit is that with little exception, every job sucks. Some suck a lot. You’ll have your head below your ass, sanding for hours, crammed in a tiny locker, but the satisfaction you’ll feel at the end of the day makes it all worthwhile.

Over the weeks and months of our old sailboat restoration, I experienced periods of high motivation where working on the boat was the only thing I wanted to do.

Things like eating, sleeping, and my day job just got in the way.

Other times, making myself get out there was like getting a 6-year-old to eat peas: damn near impossible. Motivational ebb and flow is a natural part of any long undertaking, but you have to push through it and keep going.

Don’t be another person selling a partially refitted boat. STICK WITH IT!

#12 Use perfection as the unachievable goal that it is

Instead, focus on safety and functionality. The goal is to get out there and enjoy your hard work, not worry away over every imperfection. You’re the only one that will notice anyway.

You’re never going to actually finish the boat refit; there will always be items on the to-do list. Once she’s fully functional and safe, go enjoy her. You can work on the never-ending list as you go.

Refitting Drifter was one of the single most rewarding undertakings I’ve ever done.

We live aboard, so every day I’m surrounded by the fruits of our labor. While there are flaws, the good far exceeds the bad. I know every system, and every nook and cranny. Get out there and find your opportunity. In the end, you’ll be so glad that you did!

Conclusion: Tips For Restoring an Old Boat

If you’re lucky enough to find an old boat that’s still in good shape, then you’re well on your way to having a great time out on the water. With just a little bit of elbow grease and know-how, you can have your boat sailing like new again.

Thanks for reading and we hope these tips helped!

Wondering what it’s like to live on a boat on land in a boatyard? Give this article a read to prepare you!

Chris and his wife Kelly bought their 1972 Nauticat 38 in April of 2017, and in May of 2019 went full steam ahead with an extensive refit in the driveway of their home in Portland OR.

They splashed and christened Drifter in the summer of 2022 and moved aboard full-time that September.

They are awaiting a weather window to tackle the wild west coast of the United States and begin cruising full-time starting with Mexico and Central America with the intent of continuing west.

Find their whole refit adventure documented along the way at YouTube.com/SailingAdrift. Feel free to contact them directly with any thoughts and questions through their website: www.SailingAdrift.com or by emailing [email protected]

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Should be able to pay moorage before launching and make the rest of us look like vagrants with 3 kids

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DIY Boat Restoration: Tips and Tricks for a Budget-Friendly Makeover

Restoring an old boat can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to breathe new life into a beloved vessel.

While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right tips and tricks, you can embark on a DIY boat restoration project that’s easier on your wallet and more satisfying than you might expect.

Helpful Boat Restoration Guides

1. set clear goals, 2. create a detailed plan, 3. prioritize safety, 4. do your own research, 5. salvage and recycle, 6. budget-friendly materials, 7. diy fiberglass repairs, 8. refinishing and painting, 9. upholstery on a budget, 10. routine maintenance.

Boat Restoration Guide

Fiberglass Boat Restoration Guide

Metal Shape Welding Instructions For Boat Building

10 Tips To Make Boat Restoration Simple

In this guide, we’ll share valuable insights and cost-saving strategies to help you navigate your boat restoration journey with confidence.

Before you dive into your boat restoration, determine the scope of your project.

Are you looking for a complete overhaul or just some minor repairs and cosmetic touch-ups?

Setting clear goals will help you avoid overspending and stay focused on your budget.

A well-thought-out plan is essential. Take the time to assess the boat’s condition and identify areas that require attention.

Create a checklist of tasks, including materials and tools needed.

A comprehensive plan will prevent impulse purchases and keep you on track.

Safety should always be a top priority.

Inspect the boat for structural issues, such as rot or damage, and address them first.

This ensures that your boat is safe for use, and you won’t compromise your safety while on the water.

Become a savvy researcher. Look for DIY boat restoration resources, such as books, online forums, and video tutorials.

Learning from others’ experiences can save you from common pitfalls and provide valuable insights.

When possible, salvage and recycle materials from your boat. Old hardware, wood, and even upholstery can often be refurbished or repurposed.

This not only saves money but also adds character to your project.

Shopping for materials doesn’t have to break the bank.

Consider marine-grade plywood alternatives, explore second-hand stores for décor, and compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals.

Don’t forget to inquire about discounts or bulk rates.

Many small fiberglass repairs can be done at home.

Learning basic fiberglass repair techniques will save you money on hiring professionals.

Invest in a fiberglass repair kit and follow instructional videos to tackle small cracks or holes.

For cosmetic improvements, you can save money by refinishing and painting your boat yourself.

Proper sanding, priming, and using quality marine paint can make your boat look as good as new. Don’t forget to choose colors that won’t fade quickly under the sun.

Reupholstering your boat’s seats and cushions can be expensive. Consider buying discounted marine-grade vinyl and learning basic sewing skills to make your own seat covers.

Alternatively, look for deals on pre-made seat covers.

After your boat is restored, keep it in top condition by following a regular maintenance schedule.

Routine care will extend the life of your boat and prevent costly repairs in the future.

Embarking on a DIY boat restoration project can be both a labor of love and an excellent way to save money.

By setting clear goals, creating a detailed plan, and implementing these tips and tricks, you can transform your old boat into a source of pride without breaking the bank.

Remember that patience and perseverance are key to a successful boat restoration, and the satisfaction of sailing in a vessel you’ve restored with your own hands is truly priceless.

You may also be interested in reading our guide that shows you how to build a flat bottom boat and also our boat building plans .

Mick McGrath

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How to Restore That Old Boat

Fix it up and hope for the best....

Editor’s note: This is a follow-up to our recent Shallow Draft column, “Ready for Some Dark-Side Classics?” (July 25). – Marty

Let’s assume you’re like me: You’re addicted to smaller camp-cruising boats, but can’t afford anything new. So your main option—other than building from scratch—is to find a cheap old thing, fix it up and hope for the best.

We know, from past Small Craft Advisor surveys, that the stereotypical SCA reader does, indeed, own an older production sailboat—maybe a Montgomery, Com-Pac, Catalina, Potter, Drascombe, Dovekie, Nordica, O’Day, San Juan, Santana or some other familiar model from the 1970s or ‘80s.

So, today, let’s imagine you’re tempted to buy an old, used fiberglass boat, maybe one that’s been neglected for awhile and needs the kind of loving attention you’re ready to supply. You’ve got just enough spare cash to buy the thing, but not a big budget for restoration—or the fortitude, patience or interest in a show-quality restoration. You just want a nice-looking, solid boat that’ll get you on the water and back, in safety and relative comfort.

No problem! Let’s start with the boat-buying process…

Before plunging directly into restoration subjects, we need to strenuously recommend that you avoid buying anything that looks like the photo below. While it’s possible to restore just about any rotten old boat, we urge you to hold out for a boat that is already functional—maybe not pretty when it comes to cosmetics, but not full of rainwater, with mold everywhere along with rotted canvas, badly corroded deck hardware, bent mast or other serious issues.

What you’re ideally looking for is a vintage boat whose gelcoat is oxidized (needs buffing but maybe not a  total refinish); that has a functional kicker motor, usable if not perfect sails, a trailer that hasn’t rusted into the ground, and a boat that might actually be capable of launching and sailing today. So, not too perfect (high asking price), but not a total rotter that’ll cost way too much—in time and treasury—to restore.

When you shop for such a used trailersailer, here are some key things to look for, since you’re unlikely to be accompanied by a licensed marine surveyor:

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How to Restore a Boat (And What to Consider)

Boat owners often form deep bonds with their vessels, motivating them to restore rather than replace them. This commitment to preservation allows us to appreciate the enduring beauty of classic and antique boats. Plus, it's a budget-friendly option compared to purchasing new.

But before diving into boat refurbishing, it's essential to understand that restoring a boat requires considerable time, effort, and resources. This blog post will explain how to restore a boat, the pros and cons, and restoration alternatives.

The Pros of Restoring Your Boat

Let's discuss why people choose to restore their boats:

1. Cost Compared to Buying New

Aside from sentimental value, many people opt for restoration because it's cost-effective compared to purchasing a new boat . While material expenses can accumulate, they don't compare to the hefty price tags of brand-new boats. Restoration expenses primarily involve the cost of supplies and occasional assistance from a laborer for more challenging tasks.

2.  Sense of Accomplishment and Pride

Building and restoring your boat creates a unique masterpiece tailored to your style and preferences. Your one-of-a-kind creation will be a testament to your dedication and craftsmanship – a vessel built with your own two hands.

3.  Develop New Skills or Improve Old Ones

Every restoration project is an opportunity to learn valuable boat skills! Throughout your journey, you'll gain practical knowledge about mechanics, parts, and additional information needed to complete your project.

The Cons of Boat Restoration

Restoration projects can be demanding, and many sailors are hesitant to commit. Several factors influence people's decision not to undertake these types of projects:

1. Time and Effort

Restoring a boat can be seriously labor-intensive! Restorations require a significant time commitment, as you must allocate several hours. Many people find long-term restorations peaceful and satisfying. However, others find the pressure to complete it before the season begins overwhelming.

2. Unknown Challenges

You'll inevitably encounter unforeseen challenges. For instance, depending on your boat's make, model, and year, the manufacturer might not even sell that part anymore – meaning you'll have to get creative. If you expect the unexpected, you'll overcome any challenges!

3. Liability Concerns

In the unfortunate event of an injury, you'll likely bear responsibility for any resulting damages. Additionally, note that the quality of your craft can impact your boat's warranty and cause potential insurance complications. For this reason, it's best to hire a professional if you're unsure how to restore boat parts.

How to Restore Boat Accessories and Parts

Before you begin restoring, it's essential to have your vessel surveyed by a professional. This helps uncover hidden problems lurking beneath the surface (pun intended). In addition, doing so saves you time, money, and headaches.

Next, make sure to clean every nook and cranny. This step might seem counterintuitive but will benefit you in the long run. Cleaning removes obstructions and makes inspection easier. You should also remove any unnecessary hardware and finishes.

Now it's time to carefully plan your restoration, making a list of materials you need and the order in which you'll tackle tasks. Once you're ready to begin, start with essential structural repairs like fixing holes, leaks, or rot. This includes inspecting, repairing, or replacing weakened parts.

The next step is to repair all lines and sails . Then, decide whether engine repairs or replacements are the way to go. Once you restore the major components, it's time to sand, seal, add finishes, and replace hardware. Then, you can address interior elements like floors and seats.

Finally, test everything on both land and water to ensure it functions as it should. We also recommend creating a maintenance plan to ensure your hard work stays at its best.

Additional Tips for Boat Restoration

If you're up for a rewarding restoration project, consider checking out repossessed boats available for purchase online or at boat lots. These are significantly more affordable than their new or used counterparts. Additional alternatives to boat restoration include buying a  used vessel  or hiring a crew to restore a boat.

Here's another money-saving tip: Consider purchasing upcycled or repurposed parts instead of brand-new ones. Not only will you save money, but you'll be breathing new life into old pieces.

Lastly, you'll want to document your progress with photos and notes and test everything you do. This helps you keep track of your work and ensures you have proper insurance company documentation.

Wrapping Up Boat Restoration Advice

Refurbishing a boat can be a rewarding and uniquely challenging experience. And trust us when we say there's no greater satisfaction than seeing your vision come to life. If you are considering boat restoration, we hope this article points you in the right direction! Good luck, captain. 

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Tips for sailboat restoration.

Good Advice

I just bought a 1973 Pearson 30. The Atomic 4 is shot and needs to be removed, I know very little about engines. Any ideas on what I should do would be helpful. I understand that the A4 developed about 30hp and I'm thinking a 16hp diesel would probably suit my needs(I sail on a 43,000 acre lake). Any thoughts?

16 HP sounds about right. The atomic 4 usually has a small propeller and higher RPM than diesels, so check the max diameter prop you can fit with 10-15% of clearance top and bottom. You may want less of a reduction gear. Also consider engine and fuel weight. "The propeller handbook" by Dave Gerr is a good resource. Most older boats have small props that can't make use of higher HP.

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Easy Tips for Boat Restoration

• By Heather Steinberger
• Updated: February 10, 2020

If you’ve got an aging or damaged boat that has sentimental value, you might be ready to tackle a restoration project. Here are 11 tips to keep in mind when restoring an older boat.

1. Take an inventory of your tools, and then roll up your sleeves and start. It’s that simple.

2. Clean the boat from stem to stern so you can see exactly what you have to work with.

3. Remove all the water, leaves and debris from the boat. Organic material is your enemy.

4. Identify what’s broken. Seat bases? Fiberglass components? The steering system? Will you need fiberglass boat restoration?

5. Remove the old fuel from the fuel tank, as well as the old oil from the engine and gear case.

6. Remove the old belts and hoses on the engine and replace them with new ones.

7. Check the through-hull fittings to make sure they are still properly sealed. Also check the seacocks to make sure they are in working order. Replace any broken ones.

8. Look for cracking and crazing in the fiberglass around fixtures and fittings, such as cleats. Make sure load-bearing fixtures have a proper backing plate.

9. Old boats may have lots of rotting wood. Check the deck floor, seat bases and especially the transom for sagging, rot or decay. Strip old wood out of the boat and replace it with marine-grade plywood or a modern cored composite.

10. Go to YouTube and find at least three step-by-step DIY videos that say the same thing. These guys might not be “experts,” but they at least have experience.

11. Have a specific job in mind? Check out all of our content dedicated to DIY projects.

Boat refurbishing and boat restoration can be much more complicated than the tips above, but the checklist will allow you to work on basic exterior and boat interior restoration.

• More: diy projects , How-To , Used Boats

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How to Make an Old Boat Look New

Table of Contents

Last Updated on March 29, 2022 by Boatsetter Team

Over time, boats tend to start looking worn and outdated from the wear and tear of being exposed to the natural elements and the salty ocean waters. However, if you love your old boat and want to keep it, several options help you make your boat look new and refreshed. Regardless of size, updating, restoration, and cleaning, older boats enables you to transform your boat into the boat of your dreams.

Additionally, if you do not yet own a boat , there may be some benefits to buying an older boat (be sure to read Is Owning a Boat a Good Investment? ), fixing it up to your standards, and making it appear brand new.

Own a Boat? Learn How to Offset the Cost of Ownership by Listing on Boatsetter

Benefits of Making an Old Boat Look New

One major benefit of restoring an older boat is that the cost is far less than if you were to buy a brand-new boat.

Restoring an older boat also helps preserve the boat’s history. A lot of older boat models hold a unique history or classic style. Write down any history, print out articles, or frame photos about the boat and keep them with the boat or hang them on the cabin walls to proudly display the boat’s unique history.

Another benefit of restoring an older boat is customizing it to include what you want. Instead of buying pre-manufactured designs or paying extra out of pocket for upgrades, you can choose which upgrades you like and which ones you do not need.

How Do You Restore Color on a Boat?

Over time, salt water, sun, and normal wear and tear can leave a boat’s finish looking dull. When your boat no longer looks as bright and colorful as the day you first launched it, it can look new again using various restorative materials and products while continuing with general maintenance and care.

Before starting to work on restoring the color of your boat, it is best to wash and clean it . If the boat has not been cleaned in a while, you may be amazed at how fresh and bright it looks once all the dirt, grime, salt, grease, and ocean debris are removed.

If not routinely cleaned, boats can experience premature aging, appearing dull and dingy. Use proper cleaners designed for each part of your boat, including fiberglass and aluminum.

If cleaning the boat is not enough to restore its original luster, the next step is to wax and buff the surface. A power buffer can help remove stubborn stains, and the wax can help brighten colors.

How Do I Update the Interior of my Boat?

Updating the interior of a boat can help give it a fresh look, often making it appear new again. When wanting to update the look of your boat’s interior, there are several options available:

• You need to start with deep cleaning the interior, getting into all the cracks and crevices.
• Remove all mildew, salt crust, and clean up dirty upholstery, floors, ceilings, walls, and countertops.
• Wash all hatches and windows, and treat all wood with the appropriate oil, varnish, and wax.

You can also install more interior lights to brighten things up or swap old light bulbs for newer, brighter LED bulbs. LED rope lights are also a great addition to changing a boat’s interior look while adding light. Places to install lights include under counters, walkways, between panels, and around hatches.

Changing out old sheets and comforters with new, higher-quality bedding will make sleeping areas cozier but also help freshen up the boat’s interior. It may even help to change the bed for a new memory foam mattress or add a mattress pad to prevent condensation and increase comfort when in the cabin. Another option is to reupholster the boat’s interior or change the look by adding new throw pillows and blankets. A brightly colored rug can also change the look, refreshing the area without costing too much.

Freshening up the head by adding color and brightly colored towels can quickly transform a dark bathroom. A decorative wall-mounted soap dispenser and air freshener can also help change the look and feel of the boat’s bathroom.

Changing things out in the galley area of the interior can help create a sparkling new look. Replace rusted and dull faucets, add colorful dish towels, pick non-breakable dishware and glasses with fun patterns, install over-the-sink chopping board and stove covers, and install custom racks for storage.

Finally, add fresh paint to the walls, then hang mirrors, art, photos, and souvenirs to create a beautiful space. Privacy curtains also help add color while keeping the sunlight out for afternoon naps and preventing nosey neighbors from looking in.

Ultimately, have fun with your boat’s interior by adding color and items to personalize it to you and your boating journeys.

Should I Hire a Restoration Company to Fix Up My Boat?

Restoring a boat can be very time-consuming and requires several unique tools and expertise. If you are comfortable with your restoration skills and have the means to repair your boat on your own, it might be a fun project to undertake. However, if you lack the required skills, do not have the time, or do not have the proper tools, it might be good to hire a restoration company to do the work for you. The company you hire will do everything to your specifications and help make your boat look new again.

While waiting for your boat restoration project to be complete, take time to get out on the water on a local boat rental. Boatsetter offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and captained tours helping you get on the water while waiting for your boat to be ready to set sail.

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How to Restore a Boat: Complete Guide for Beginners

Boating offers you a fun way to spend time out on the water with family and friends. There are dozens of boat brands and designs with purposeful builds to suit any boating activity. From fishing in the flats in the estuary to taking on the waves in the open ocean, there’s a boat designed to do anything on the water.

While boating is fun, it’s an expensive hobby. Buying a new boat is as serious as purchasing a new car, and you need to carefully consider the right model and brand to match your motoring style. It’s the same thing with boats; you need a model that offers you the best performance for what you want to do out on the water.

Unfortunately, some decent boats can cost you north of $35,000 for an entry-level model. At the minimum, you’re looking at spending $15,000 to $20,000 on a new boat. So, it makes more sense to buy a used model, right? Going with a pre-owned boat can save you thousands on the costs of your vessel.

Just like cars, you get used boats in a variety of conditions, from those that need huge amounts of repairs to those that only need a few touch-ups. However, chances are you’re going to need some level of refurbishment to your boat, regardless of the age,

Refurbishing a used boat can save you thousands on the price tag, especially if you have the handy skills to do it yourself. This guide gives you everything you need to know about how to restore a boat.

Plan and Set Up Your Workspace

If you’re purchasing a boat, make sure you have a dedicated space on your property for the restoration. Storing the vessel in a shipyard at the marina means you’ll have to waste time traveling between the shipyard and your home when restoring the boat.

That’s time you could be putting into the work, and having your workshop close to where you live saves you hours of time, getting the project finished in the fastest time possible. When you have a workspace at your home, you have access to outlets and better security for the boat and your tooling.

Workspace Requirement

If you don’t have the space to store the boat at your home, look for suitable premises you can rent close to where you live. We recommend finding a place with an overhead cover allowing you to work in all weather conditions, and don’t forget the need for power outlets for your tools. You’ll also need access to water on the property and security for the boat.

Basic Restoration Tools

You’ll need to make sure you have the following restoration items and tools before starting your project.

Try and get two if there are two of you working on the project. The boat’s sides are steep when mounted on the trailer or at the yard. The ladder helps you climb in and out of the vessel and reach the high spots on the sides from the ground.

Flexible Hoses

These hoses are easy to coil up and move around the boat.

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)

You’ll need respirators, surgical gloves, and safety goggles for your protective gear. The respirator is critical when sanding away paint and fiberglass, keeping the particles out of your lungs.

Entertainment

Get yourself a Bluetooth speaker to play your favorite songs when working on your boat – it helps to pass the time on long restoration jobs!

Boat Inspection

When purchasing your boat, make sure you give it a complete inspection before making your final offer. It’s a good idea to have a professional inspect the boat for you and point out any problems before you make your purchase. The last thing you need is to discover damage or engine/electronics problems after paying the owner.

Talk to the Seller

Before calling the pros, ask the seller if they have anything they want to disclose with their boat before handing it over to you. If you’re purchasing from a used dealer, ask the following questions to your agent before closing the deal.

• How did the previous owner treat the vessel?
• How did the previous owner store the boat?
• Is there any existing damage or repairs required?
• What are the service history and previous repairs done on the boat?
• How often did the previous owner use the boat?
• What maintenance did the previous owner do on the boat?

Restoring a boat is a big undertaking, especially if it’s in poor condition. Make sure you understand the task you’re taking on before you decide to buy the boat and make a huge mistake.

If you give up on the project halfway through it, you’re not going to make any money on the work you did to the boat. You might sit with it for a while before you find a buyer willing to commit to the restoration project, leaving you out of pocket.

Some repair jobs with boats just aren’t worth the hassle. The bigger the restoration project, the more money and time it takes to finish the restoration. Some of the major restoration problems to avoid include the following.

Wood looks fantastic on boats, providing a classic look and a wonderful aesthetic to the vessel’s finish. However, the issue with wood is that it rots. If the previous owners didn’t maintain the wood, you could be in for a serious, costly replacement when refurbishing the boat.

Wood finishes are more popular on older boats, so the chances are that you’re going to need to remove and replace all the rotted wood, and that can get expensive. However, if you find a boat with mildly deteriorating wood finishes, it may be possible to salvage it with the right tools, materials, and care.

If the boat is 25-years old or older, then the chances are that damage to wooden components on the vessel will have some rot in them. Almost every wooden boat would experience wood rot at some stage, especially if the owner didn’t take the necessary care of the vessel.

Some of the older boats may have a “cored” hull. Purchasing a boat with this design is a mistake. Eventually, you’re going to have to remove and refurbish the core, and that’s going to be a huge hassle in your project, taking up hours of your time. The coring in these older models typically features balsa or thin plywood.

If you’re dealing with someone on a prospective older model, it’s a good idea to do some research online into that specific model. If it has coring, then rather walk away and look for something else.

Some of the boats don’t have a cored construction, and that has that one advantage when it comes to the complexity of the restoration, and the time it will take. Other components on the boat that are at risk of developing rot include the transom, seats, floors, and stringers.

While wood offers an impressive finish, most modern boats replaced this material with fiberglass or aluminum over the last two or three decades. The paint on the boat comes from the factory looking fantastic. However, a few years in the sun at the marina will take the luster out of the paint job.

Most old boats come with a gel coat direct from the factory, adding extra protection to the paint. Some of the earlier models may also feature a metal flake, which has an impressive look. If you’re completing a restoration, the paint will probably be the most expensive part of the process.

So, we don’t recommend painting the boat after you finish the restoration if you want to save money on the job. It’s a better idea to try and restore the factory finish as best as possible.

If the old gelcoat needs some attention, you can buff it out and make the boat look 10% to 20% better with this simple task, saving you the paint costs. If the gel coat is repairable, don’t waste your time and money on repainting the boat.

The motor is another considerable point of failure when purchasing a boat. First, make sure that the engine is still in production. If you’re buying a boat from a manufacturer that went under, then the chances are those spares are not available anymore. As a result, you’ll have to spend hours digging through wrecks at the local salvage yard to find what you need for the job.

If you have the chance, purchase a boat from a person that works on the engine themselves. These people will take the best care of the motor. If that’s not an option, look for boats with the most extensive service history possible.

Ask the owner to start the motor, and ensure that it runs correctly. If you have no experience with boat engines, find a mechanic that can give the motor a once-over inspection and tell you about the problems you need to fix.

Get a Second Look

Buying boats and motors aren’t a good idea if you don’t have any experience with boats and don’t know what you’re looking at during the inspection. On the surface, the boat might look fine, but there might be a slew of problems with the vessel under the surface.

The last thing you need is to buy a lemon and never finish the restoration. So, it pays to have a professional assessor look over the boat before you close the deal. The professional will run over the electrical and mechanical components of the boat, the wiring, and the engine to point out any problems with the vessel.

While it’s easy to see the exterior damage and damage to the boat’s body, the stuff out of sight is a real concern, and the professional assessor will remove this risk from the deal.

Create a Master Restoration List and Prioritize Tasks

After you finalize your purchase and have the boat assessed by a professional, it’s time to plan the restoration. Planning doesn’t take much time, and it will end up saving you plenty of time and money in the restoration process.

You’ll need to create a master priority list for the restoration tasks involved with the project. When creating your priority schedule, ask yourself the following questions.

• What work do I need to do to make the boat run safely?
• What work do I need to do to get the boat to float?
• What damage is cosmetic, and what damage is structural?
• What are the vital tasks to complete, and what would be nice to have?
• Do I need specific workshop conditions for this restoration?

These questions help you form the framework around the restoration project. Organize your list, starting with the most labor-intensive tasks at the top of the list. Make sure you focus on safety and never work on the boat without wearing the correct safety gear.

Create a Restoration Calendar

After you finish prioritizing the tasks involved with your project, it’s time to map out your schedule on your calendar. A goal is only a dream until you put a timeline to it, and this phase of your planning is as critical as the prioritization phase.

Set realistic goals for completing each of the tasks, and stretch yourself to make the project challenging. If you don’t hit your timelines, that’s fine; just make sure you’re focusing on the quality of your work at all times.

If you make your purchase in October, you could set a date for having your boat in the water by the following July. That sounds like a great way to start the summer, right? With this goal in mind, you’ll need to complete the preliminary work involved with the project by June and leave the aesthetic repairs for the fall after the summer ends.

Taking the time to plan out your project relieves the stress and uncertainty involved with the restoration. With the right milestones in place for your project, you’ll find you feel more confident, with the momentum of your achievements pulling you through the project’s timeline to a successful restoration.

Some boat owners find that the length of the project becomes a chore to manage, and they lose interest over time. When you plan the project carefully, you’re consistently moving through it, and you know what to expect. Sure, there might be setbacks, but you’ll eventually achieve your goal with the restoration with the right planning.

How to Restore a Boat – Checklist

By now, you should understand the basics of what you need for a boat restoration project. It’s no simple task, and you can expect to spend anywhere from a year to two years or more on the restoration, depending on the condition of your boat.

However, with the right planning and execution, the time will fly by, and before you know it, you’ll be out on the water. We decided to give you this checklist to help you navigate your way through your boat restoration project.

• Make sure you have an adequate workspace for the project.
• Take an inventory of your materials and tooling.
• Clean the boat properly and remove all dirt before you start the project.
• Remove all organic material and water from the boat to prevent mold and pest infestations.
• Inspect the boat and identify any problems with the exterior.
• Contact a boat inspection service and have them go over the boat to confirm the final issues involved with your restoration project.
• Drain the fuel tank and remove the engine from the boat.
• Drain the gear case of the old oil.
• Remove old hoses and belts on the motor and replace damaged parts,
• Check through-hull fittings and ensure they have tight seals. Replace any perished seals.
• Check the seacocks to ensure they are in working order. Replace any damaged parts.
• Inspect the hull of the boat for signs of any cracks.
• Check for cracks in the fiberglass around fittings and fixtures.
• Ensure that any load-bearing fixtures have the proper backing plate for support.
• Check the boat from top to bottom for any evidence or signs of wood rot.
• Check the deck flooring, bases of seats, and the ransom. Look for any signs of decay or deterioration.
• Strip the old and rotted wood from the boat. Replace it with marine-grade cored composites or plywood.
• If you’re having issues with a specific part of the restoration project, research it on YouTube.
• Look on forums if you have trouble working out any problems – the people there have loads of experience, and they are great resources for knowledge.

Wrapping Up

After you have all your planning ready and the boat set up in the workshop, it’s time to roll those sleeves up and get to work!

The biggest issue with any restoration is the time involved with the project. During the planning phase, map out the time you have to work on your project each week and outline the required finish date for your restoration.

Stay committed to your project, and don’t give up!

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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The Reality of Fixing Up an Old Boat

• By Jim Carrier
• February 26, 2024

If, while surfing the web, you happen upon a YouTube series called Sailing Blue Pearl , during Episode 15, you might think you’ve found the reality show Survivor . There are grimaces, grunts, gritted teeth, slumped shoulders and a voice in despair, close to defeat.

But the rivalry here is not between tribes in a made-up game. The antagonist is a boat. It’s a used boat, 40 years old, that an American couple found in Mexico. It was full of potential. But at first, as each problem and roadblock surfaces, and as the dream of sailing recedes, the series is almost painful to watch.

“There is so much broken on this boat that we really have contemplated selling this boat even though we just launched it a week and a half ago,” the usually bubbly series producer, Jessica Hanna, says in a voiceover.

Four months earlier, she and her husband, Chris, had acted on his dream to live on a boat. They bought a 1984, 65-foot, 40-ton Irwin ketch. After their first week at anchor, she panned her camera around Mexico’s La Paz Bay, past neighboring yachts floating in paradise, past a visibly exhausted Chris. She had a glass of wine in her other hand and was drinking it before it went bad because the refrigerator, “fixed” five times, still wouldn’t cool. “I look at the other boats out there, honestly, and think their life must be wonderful,” she says. “We thought this life would be wonderful. But there is so much wrong with this boat that all we can think about is, have we made a mistake?”

I’ve watched a fair number of refitting videos, but none so real or so honest, so full of highs and lows. The Hannas ­struggle with virtually every issue that first-time used-boat owners typically encounter. Relentlessly recorded and professionally edited, Sailing Blue Pearl is a documentary of missed problems, misplaced trust, naiveté and the realities of buying an old boat on which to cruise.

That said, each episode also portrays grit, ingenuity and small triumphs as problems are solved one by one. Most of all, what comes across is love and commitment between a wife and ­husband as they pursue their dream, and the faith they share in God and a sunset glass of champagne. If you binge forward six months to Episode 39, “Welcome to Our Home,” and watch the Hannas walk through their yacht, beautifully restored and cruising the Sea of Cortez, you’ll be struck, as I was, by their resolve and vision.

Their story begins in 2005 in a ballroom-dancing class in Redding, California, where Jessica, 45 and an Oregon transplant, hoped to meet new friends. By chance, she and Chris, 65, got paired for a waltz. As schmaltzy as it sounds, they were engaged four months later. They married in January 2006. Their wedding waltz is preserved in Episode 29, “A Love Story.”

After traveling to 19 countries on vacation, Chris retired from civil engineering, and the couple spent two years seeing 30 states while living in an RV. At some point, they drove it to La Paz, Mexico, and began looking for a boat. 

The Irwin, which had been chartered for $12,000 a week, was packed with amenities designed to make living and entertaining comfortable—luxurious, actually, by used-boat standards. It had a good-size salon, four staterooms, a spacious galley, three heads, a generator, a watermaker, an inverter, five air conditioners, two freezers, a refrigerator, hot water, a washer and dryer, a radar, navigation aids, and all the displays that a yacht might need.

While the sails, winches and spars seemed to be in good shape, previous surveys were shallow. Rather than commission another one, they asked local electricians who had worked on the boat to check its many systems. During the sea trial, “everything turned on…there was no problem,” Jessica says. “I mean everything ran, and then we bought the boat, and it was like magic—because there was much that did not turn on for us ever again, until we had it repaired or replaced.”

Chris adds: “The previous owner was less than forthcoming with regard to the condition of the boat. Let’s just put it that way.”

Wearing what they now admit were rose-colored glasses, they paid $200,000 for Jersey Girl II and renamed it Blue Pearl for the rare pearls that were once cultured nearby. The grins on their faces in Episode 3, “We Bought a Boat,” didn’t last long.

What follows in Jessica’s weekly video series is a medley of ­color exploring La Paz’s tourist port, and visits to beaches with their two dogs in their dinghy mixed with daily work on the boat. Two scenes that stick in my head: Chris emerging from yet another hatch, wearing kneepads and a headlamp, holding a broken wire or clogged tube or the rusted Vice-Grip that held the autopilot together; and their daily sunset toasts with a kiss.

They had budgeted $50,000 for upgrades. As of this writing, they were at $75,000, much of it spent on technicians who came and went erratically. A windlass rebuild set them back $1,000, and though they have a 620-gallon diesel-fuel capacity, they installed 500 watts of solar panels on the cockpit frame to charge new lithium batteries. A Starlink antenna and subscription significantly improved internet communications.

Their YouTube channel, with 65 videos, has attracted 2,875 subscribers and more than 130,000 views of their finished walk-through. Comments have helped them cope, tweaking what they should have done, and praising them for their pluck. 

“You two are such great inspiration,” Greta Geankoplis wrote. “The dream of cruising, and the love for it that can follow later, almost always begins with complete ignorance of sailing.”

Neil Campion commented: “Don’t give up. Cruising is taking the good with the bad.”

Another fan wrote, “ Blue Pearl —my new National Geographic .”

Stan Owens added: “And we had all thought RV life was challenging. Think the S.S. Owens will stick to life on land a bit longer.”

After a year as boat owners and 1,100 miles up the Sea of Cortez, Chris and Jessica plan to cross the Gulf of California to Mazatlan on Mexico’s mainland to watch the solar eclipse in April 2024. From there, they may enter the Panama Canal to cruise the Caribbean.

When you watch their videos, filled not just with angst, but also with the beauty around them in the Sea of Cortez—breaching whales, dolphins, fresh fish caught off the stern, friends and family laughing, a cup of coffee in a quiet dawn—one can be forgiven for thinking that Chris and Jessica Hanna have nothing to prove. They are, in real time, starring in their own sailing dream.

• More: DIY , Hands-On Sailor , Influencers , people , Print March 2024
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Buying a Boat Fixer-Upper

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Besides knowing a boat's age and engine hours, here's what you need to consider before refitting or restoring a fiberglass boat, including boat type and usage, hull construction, structural problems and mechanical damage.

The refit or restoration of an old boat is one of those endeavors that appear to have no practical value but can be very satisfying emotionally to the appreciative eye. Everyone takes notice of a gleaming mahogany runabout or gaff-rigged wooden sloop that typifies the world of antique and classic boats. Nonetheless, fiberglass has been around for over 50 years and has become the recreational boatbuilder's material of choice. Now that some are old enough to qualify as "classics," older glass boats sporting impeccable urethane paint jobs are beginning to get their share of the "oohs" and "aahs."

Despite the fact that wooden boat restorers wear their heroic mantle proudly and snort at the notion that an old glass hull could present serious refit obstructions, in comparison to fiberglass, the nature of wood construction simplifies hull repairs. Wood hulls may be made from biodegradable materials but at least they have replaceable parts. The restoration of a wood hull can be carried out one plank or rib at a time. If the ongoing replacement of degraded parts is carried out diligently, there is no theoretical upper time limit to how long a wood boat will last.

Unfortunately, a fiberglass hull is practically monolithic, a "one-shot" deal, and if the hull is just plain tuckered out, what can you do? There are a few options for structurally repairing the whole hull but none of them are easy and may make a refit impractical. Like wood, glass hulls are not immune to the forces of nature, but here it is not biology but chemistry and physics working against them.

Cross section of a typical fiberglass osmosis blister.

The two destructive agents at work on a glass laminate are: moisture, which can attack resin or seep into cored laminates, and flexing, which not only breaks individual glass fibers but also causes layers of glass or core to de-bond and separate, an evil known as "delamination."

Blisters Casebook

Once upon a time people thought fiberglass hulls were inert in contact with water. Glass fibers are, but over time some polyester resins proved to be surprisingly soluble. Water molecules penetrate into a susceptible laminate by seeping through the gelcoat and wicking along the glass fibers. Once in contact with the resin, the water can react with soluble polyester components (mostly glycols and dibasic acids that are not fully bound or cross-linked into the polyester), a process known as hydrolysis.

The hydrolytic process picks apart the polyester molecules and the resin begins to leach away. A microscopic droplet of leachate solution (consisting of water and those pesky polyester components) collects in one of the tiny voids or air bubbles that exist in all glass laminates. Additional moisture is drawn in by osmotic action, the droplet grows and eventually a blister forms.

The pox-like signs of osmosis show hydrolysis is at work. Time for a barrier coat before things get worse.

As the process continues, the hull develops a classic case of osmosis blisters. A minor case of blisters is a cosmetic problem and affects only the gelcoat. A severe case forms big blisters deep inside the laminate, which can lead to major hull delamination and weaken the hull to the point of being unseaworthy.

Blisters can be repaired but the cost is high and the prognosis iffy. The conventional blister repair technique of drying the hull, removing the gelcoat and, in the worst cases, layers of leached laminate, finally re-skinning the boat with new laminate and/or an epoxy or vinylester barrier coating usually works.

This traditional repair strategy does not correct any problems with the fundamental resin chemistry but concentrates on repairing the existing damage and denying moisture access to the laminate from the outside. Moisture can still get into a susceptible laminate from inside the boat via condensation, bilge water, etc. and, unfortunately, there are hard cases out there that refuse to stop blistering even after a good conventional repair.

Core Contents

Cored hulls can suffer from hydrolysis and the resulting osmosis blisters can exacerbate a far more dramatic problem resulting from poor workmanship or abuse. If the core lay-up is not well sealed during construction and/or someone drills a hole for an aftermarket thru-hull below the waterline and does not seal it properly using the potting technique, water will seep into the core. It may take years on a quality hull to saturate a significant area.

Blister analysis requires a sample to examine.

In cold climates, the process is accelerated by frost heaving that can debond the core from the inner or outer glass skin. However, some tests have shown it takes a very wet core to be susceptible to freeze damage, in which case the boat is not a good candidate for fixing up.

All core materials are degraded by water absorption but balsa wood core is particularly vulnerable to long-term saturation. If caught early, while the balsa is still sound, it may be possible to dry the core, otherwise major surgery is required. This involves removing either the inner or outer skin, digging out and replacing the old core material and re-skinning the repair area. Depending on the extent of the problem and the quality of the boat, this sort of repair can be more expensive than a blister repair but on a great boat may still be worth doing.

Hull Flexing

The other great killer of fiberglass hulls is flex (stress). Motorboat hulls take a constant beating and are built as lightly as possible to encourage quick planing. Over the years, the mechanical characteristics of the hull laminate degrade as each wave impact (or pothole encountered while trailering) bends the laminate and breaks another tiny glass fiber or knocks it loose from the grip of the resin.

Gradually, the hull loses stiffness and becomes more flexible. Stress cracks appear at stringers, bulkheads and running strakes. Eventually, delamination occurs as the bond holding the individual laminate layers together fails.

A delaminated powerboat hull won't survive long in normal service. Major cracks extending deep into the laminate will soon appear and with them the risk of a catastrophic hull failure. This usually occurs when the edge of an athwartship crack snags the high-speed water flow on the bottom and a piece of the hull is instantly peeled back. When this happens, you are lucky if the missing chunk is just an outer layer of a multi-layer laminate.

Sailboats can also suffer from accumulated mechanical damage inflicted by years of use and abuse. Everything from bashing through a short chop on the way to a weather mark to improper cradling can contribute to a global loss of stiffness in a hull and eventually to areas of delamination.

Mechanical damage to hull laminates can be repaired but can be a daunting job, technically and financially. It's just a matter of grinding out delaminated areas and laying in new fiberglass, plus filling and fairing. If the whole hull is tired — in other words, just too flexible throughout — you are faced with a job that is equivalent to building a new hull using the old one as a male mold.

Selecting a Refit Candidate

So, it seems that a fiberglass hull can slowly dissolve and/or get beaten to death. Is this the fate that awaits them all? If so, when? No one really knows how long a glass hull will last. It all depends on an almost infinite number of variables and the answer will be different for each boat.

If you are planning to refit any glass boat, it should be surveyed carefully. You need to make an educated guess about the hull longevity of your potential refit candidate before going to all that time and expense. Hire a surveyor to help with this assessment.

They don't build them like this anymore with 2"- (5cm) thick solid glass!

Despite the fact that glass hulls vary widely, you can make some educated calculations based on the following factors. First are the quality and type of original construction. Generally thicker and heavier eventually to areas of delamination. Mechanical damage to hull laminates can be repaired but can be a daunting job, technically and financially. It's just a matter is better than thinner and lighter. Many early glass boats were built to the same thickness as their wood predecessors. Other than hydrolysis and blister issues, not much goes wrong with these old heavy hulls.

A hull from a high-end builder will usually last longer than one from a budget boatbuilder. Everything else being equal, you get what you pay for. High-quality cored construction (if properly maintained) is much stiffer than solid glass of the same weight and can hold up very well in the long term, provided the core stays dry.

Second are the boat's age, hours, history of use (or abuse) and maintenance experience. A boat that was hauled periodically will be less waterlogged and less prone to osmosis; likewise for a boat with a good barrier coating. Beware of planing powerboats with high hours and that are pre-1980s vintage. Avoid all planing powerboats coming out of commercial, police or military service.

Even a high-quality hull can be thrashed in a few years by 2,000 hours of service annually. It would take an enthusiastic weekend boater five to 20 years (depending on the latitude) to put those hours on a hull.

Lastly is the type of boat: power versus sail, high speed versus moderate speed. There are always exceptions but generally, cruising sailboats and displacement powerboats age better than lightweight racing sailboats and planing powerboats.

Any glass hull can be repaired and renewed. It's just a question of whether it's worth it to do so. If Nelson's HMS Victory or the USS Constitution had been built of fiberglass, I'm sure ways and means would be found to carry out the necessary repairs today. Some boats deserve to live forever, be they wood or glass.

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Nick Bailey has more than three decades in the boat-repair business and is service manager of Bristol Marine in Mississauga, Ontario.

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Fix It and Sail: Everything You Need to Know to Buy and Restore a Small Sailboat on a Shoestring Paperback – Illustrated, January 10, 2006

Purchase options and add-ons.

Find a small cruising sailboat and restore it to pristine condition on a budget that won't sink your budget

Small, trailererable cruising sailboats are more popular than ever as mooring spaces dwindle and marina dockage and winter storage costs soar. Fix It and Sail helps you discover boatloads of fun far less than a single ski weekend or golf club membership. Veteran sailor and journalist Brian Gilbert shows you how to select and inspect a boat, then restore it from keel to rigging.

Gilbert's clear, step-by-step instructions guide you through every phase of the restoration process from repairing keels, hulls, ports, and cabins to painting, wiring, and sealing. You'll learn how to evaluate, repair and replace hardware, upholstery, canvaswork, and more. Profusely illustrated appendices give you a vivid picture of the costs, tasks, and labor involved in an actual restoration project.

• Print length 216 pages
• Language English
• Publisher International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press
• Publication date January 10, 2006
• Dimensions 7.3 x 0.42 x 9.1 inches
• ISBN-10 0071458093
• ISBN-13 978-0071458092
• See all details

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From the publisher.

Brian Gilbert is a lifelong sailor who lived aboard a Catalina 27 for four years. As a young father with a modest budget, he bought a Venture 22 for $500. The photos of his restoration of that boat are truly inspirational. His sailing articles have appeared in Good Old Boat, Small Craft Advisor , and DIY Marine magazines.

About the Author

Product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press; 1st edition (January 10, 2006)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 216 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0071458093
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0071458092
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 15.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.3 x 0.42 x 9.1 inches
• #243 in Sailing (Books)
• #297 in Boating (Books)

About the author

Brian gilbert.

Brian Gilbert is the author of Fix It And Sail and The Complete Trailer Sailor, both published by International Marine. Fix It And Sail documents the story of a run-down MacGregor Venture 22 sailboat, from it's discovery in the woods to its complete restoration and relaunch.

Complete Trailer Sailor is a broader examination of the overall world of small trailerable sailboats, both used and new. It covers how to buy a boat, operate it safely, and maintain it well.

He was a liveaboard sailor for four years, and currently resides in Chattanooga Tennessee. His "day job" is audio engineer and location sound mixer for broadcast television and film. He's also been a contributor to magazines such as Good Old Boat, DIY Boatowner, and Small Craft Advisor, where he produces the artwork for the featured boat in each issue.

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 62% 24% 8% 3% 3% 62%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 62% 24% 8% 3% 3% 24%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 62% 24% 8% 3% 3% 8%
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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 62% 24% 8% 3% 3% 3%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers find the book very informative and useful for sailors. They also say the systems are well described and illustrated. Readers also say it's a good value for the money spent.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book very informative, effective, and inspiring. They also appreciate the detailed explanations of how to do the repairs and what is needed. Customers also mention that the book provides good ideas and quality approaches to repairing a trailer.

"...Big sigh, ............ A wonderful dream to read about . This book will speak to your heart and inspire your dreams." Read more

"...It is an excellent primer to introduce a reader to boat repair and restoration, and I generally recommend it as reading to anyone who wants to start..." Read more

"...muddle through the restoration process, and that no particularly profound knowledge is conveyed ." Read more

"...to making repairs, this book does a good job of giving clear, usable information .Let's you buy that cheap boat with confidence." Read more

Customers find the book very well described and illustrated. They also say it does a good job of giving clear, usable information. Readers also mention that the book is well laid out and easy to follow.

"...It had plenty of (B&W) photos, and demonstrates a clean and clear process of boat restoration on a budget...." Read more

"...to assessing needs, to making repairs, this book does a good job of giving clear , usable information...." Read more

"...The way the author presented the "systems" was very well described and illustrated ...." Read more

"Great book. Easy to read with good pictures . Written about a specific boat, but much of the information can be used for any similar type of boat...." Read more

Customers find the book very well spent, and a good book for DIYers. They also say it's an effective general guide to refurbishment.

"A very good book for the DIYer considering trying their skills at restoring a boat...." Read more

"... Money very well spent ." Read more

" Pretty average but effective general guide to refurbishment. Seems to start on most refurb areas but never seems to give any great detail...." Read more

" Well worth buying ...." Read more

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Old and young musicians team up to save Bega's 125-year-old town band

By Vanessa Milton

ABC South East NSW

Topic: Music (Arts and Entertainment)

Like so many bands in country towns across Australia, Bega's District Band was once the beating heart of the community, providing the soundtrack to events, dances and ceremonies on the NSW far south coast.

The Bega District Band had dozens of players in its heyday. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

But now in its 125th year, the band's membership has dwindled to around 15 regulars as it struggles to attract a younger generation of players.

"Particularly in the country areas, there's been a big reduction in the number of bands that have managed to survive," said 77-year-old euphonium player David Moore, who has played in brass bands for over 60 years.

David Moore has played in brass bands for over 60 years. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

"In Bega, we're hanging on by the skin of our teeth trying to keep it going. And that's where the all-ages band fits in."

Moore is a founding member of the Bega All Ages Development band, which sprung from a vision to create a pathway for new players to develop skills and eventually join the Bega District Band.

Seven-year-old Grover Keeling is the youngest member of the band. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

From pop to blues and improvisation

The band first formed in 2019, then after a hiatus during the COVID pandemic, it got up and running again in 2023.

"At first we had no idea what the band was actually going to be," said bandleader Nick Keeling.

"We started with five players and two of them were related to me."

Now the fibro band room is near capacity, with players ranging in age from seven to 77.

Music teacher Nick Keeling plays trombone and leads the all ages band. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

Their repertoire ranges from pop songs and movie themes to jazz and blues standards.

"We run the gamut of in tune, and in time, it's an axis," Nick Keeling said.

Mr Keeling is a multi-instrumentalist who grew up in a strong high school band tradition in Austin, Texas. 

He now plays in "about a dozen" jazz, bluegrass and Latin bands in the Bega Valley.

As a music teacher, he is passionate about giving young musicians the same chance at glory they get in sporting clubs. 

One way he does that is by encouraging players to step up for improvised solos.

Liz Schindler's daughter Kimberley encouraged her to pick up the flute again and join the band. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

"I've spent years studying improvisation, there's a definite framework that improvisation revolves around. But for all the method of it, it's about being a hero," he said.

Koby Taylor, 10, is now a regular soloist, but he was on the verge of giving up the saxophone before he joined the band.

He was "a bit skittish" when he first walked into the band room.

"When I walked in the door, I was shaking," he said.

"But since then, I've built my confidence up.

"I was made for music."

Koby Taylor says band is like "another world". ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

'Like walking into a family'

Frank Farrell, 76, has picked up the cornet again after a 50-year break.

"I'm like a kid learning all over again," Mr Farrel said. 

"And playing with the kids, I'm not teaching them — they're teaching me."

He describes the band as "like walking into a family", where "the very old, the very young, and the in-between" all learn from each other.

Frank Farrell, 76, picked up the cornet after a 50-year break. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

"You can't help but in time, improve," he said.

"And it's not just an accomplishment for yourself, it's about the whole band coming together."

For Liz Schindler and her 11-year-old daughter Kimberley, the welcoming atmosphere of the band is more important than sounding completely polished.

"It's not one of those fancy bands that you see in the Opera House or the Olympics or something," Kimberley said.

"You can play and not be judged."

Liz Schindler and her daughter Kimberley. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

Inspiring a new generation

Euphonium player David Moore hopes that the younger players will develop a lifelong love of music.

"That's not automatic," Mr Moore said.

"Because there's so many things that kids can do these days."

Blaze Townsend's grandfather and great grandfather played in the Bega District Band. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

The deeper hope is that some of them will be inspired to join the Bega District Band and keep its 125-year tradition alive.

"If we don't pick up a few members from the all-ages band, I can see in the not-too-distant future that the Bega District Band will not be able to continue," Mr Moore said.

The band room is adorned with Bega District Band memorabilia. ( ABC South East NSW: Vanessa Milton )

As the sun sets behind the band room, chairs and music stands are packed away, instruments are loaded back into cars and the youngest musicians play tips on the grass outside.

While Nick Keeling says he sometimes just has to count each song off and hope for the best, there is a shared feeling that the eclectic group is definitely getting tighter with each rehearsal.

"The band is starting to feel like, 'This is us, and we belong to this,'" he said.

ABC South East NSW — local news in your inbox

Going Out | Events and Things To Do

Things to do in London this weekend (September 6 – 8)

This weekend, the last before fashion week arrives, sees London open up with new restaurants, bars, a glut of weekend freebies and arty festivals to attend.

The breadth of food on offer in London sees both highfalutin British fine-dining and approachable Turkish on offer, alongside a Taipei-inspired drinking den and a free festival at Southbank celebrating diversity in artists with disabilities.

As ever then, this is what to eat, drink, see and do this weekend in London.

The hot table: Leydi

Selin Kiazim is back. Oklava, Kiazim’s old joint, closed last year and things have been a little quiet since then. Leydi is new, the main dining room at the recently opened HYDE hotel near St Pauls and the food is, as Oklava was, deeply rooted in Turkish culture and flavours. Kiazim deploys fan favourites like muhammara and baked hummus alongside more contemporary creations of Welsh lamb kebap with dripping pide. Go here. 

15 Old Bailey, EC4M 7EF, hydehotels.com

The drinking den: Good Measure 

Daddy Bao is a casual Taiwanese Tooting favourite and it has finally opened a place to go for drinks afterwards. It’s the quiet definition of a drinking den, a low-key subterranean spot underneath the main dining room, said to be inspired by Taipei’s own underground bar scene. Cocktails are set to include a peanut old fashioned with peanut infused Buffalo Trace bourbon and the Apricot Affair, made with plum sake, yuzu sake and Cocchi Americano.  

113 Mitcham Road, SW17 9PE, daddybao.co.uk

The old favourite: Counter 71 

Scribbled at the bottom of the drinks list at Counter 71, the highly regarded fine-dining restaurant by Joe Laker, are the words “sparkling teas from Saicho”. This week, those four words receive dramatic elevation as the luxurious Saicho non-alcoholic sparkling teas act as the main drinks pairing to the full menu at Counter 71. Running for six weeks, this bold pairing sees the jasmine, hojicha and darjeeling expressions served alongside the full 12 course. For anyone swerving the sauce, or looking to discover these gorgeous teas, this one is a must. 

From September 6, 71 Nile Street, N1 7RD, www.counter71.co.uk  

The weekend festival: Product Earth London

Drumsheds might be best known for day raves and house music, but this weekend, Product Earth takes over for the weekend with wellness, health and medical marijuana. The scientific-sounding Curaleaf Laboratories, Wellford Medicinal Cannabis and plenty more brands on the burgeoning business of developing legal, medical weed for health purposes will be exhibiting their wares, alongside gong bong yoga (we’re not sure, either), live music from the likes of Artful Dodger, BMX shows and free health consultations. Groovy. 

September 7 and 8, Drumsheds, 6 Glover Drive, N18 3HF productearth.life  

The art fix: Saatchi Summer Lates - Strike a Pose: Voguing Life Drawing

This summer, as part of Beyond Fashion, the Saatchi Gallery has opened a series of “Lates”, offering what they call “ Art After Dark”. This weekend the gallery is hosting a life drawing class, coalescing around the dance movement of Voguing, a technique which emerged from the drag scene in Harlem during the 1980’s. Get your pencils ready for this night of drinking, dancing and just a little bit of art in Chelsea. 

September 6, Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York's HQ, King's Road, SW3 4RY, saatchigallery.com

The weekend freebie: Lime thru bakery

Bicycle enthusiasts Lime have tapped up Pophams for a free “ride-thru” bakery this weekend. At the event in Shoreditch a limited-edition lime-flavoured pastry baked by Pophams is filled with a lime curd white chocolate cremeux topped with a swirl of Italian meringue - importantly, the delicious-sounding pastry is a freebie. To claim the offer of a complimentary pastry, coffee and 15-minute LimePass you’ll need to download and register on the Lime app and remember this one’ll be popular, strictly on a first-come, first-served basis (read: get there early). 

September 6 – 8, Protein Studios, Shoreditch, EC2A 3EY,  www.li.me

The (other) weekend freebie: Unlimited at Southbank 

Across the weekend, the Southbank centre has curated a host of free-to-attend performances across music, art and dance by disabled artists. With literature and poetry readings from the likes of Raymond Antrobus, a deaf rave with DJ Chinaman and solo performances by Michael Turinsky exploring movement and mobility punctuating the weekend. For a powerful realisation of the true accessibility of art, head here for a show. 

September 4 - 8, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX, southbankcentre.co.uk  

The boat festival: St Katherines Dock Boat Festival 

St Katherine’s Dock welcomes dozens of antique and historic vessels this weekend for London’s largest collection of ships and boats at the St Katherine’s Dock Boat Festival. Expect WWII maritime vessels, beautiful Dunkirk Little Ships and larger cruising racing yachts side-by-side at this two day festival of boating and sailing. 

September 7 and 8, St Katherines Docks, E1W 1LA, skdocks.co.uk  

The ticket to book now (for later): Jazz Cafe Festival 

Next weekend, artists including Earl Sweatshirt, Alchemist, ELIZA, the Buena Vista All Stars and Nils Frahm headline this lineup of contemporary Jazz music in all its glory. Tapping into the very best influences from Hip-Hop and R&B, the day festival is a celebration for fans of the 35-year London music venue, split across four live stages. 

September 15, Burgess Park, SE5 0AL, thejazzcafelondon.com

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Politics latest: Tony Blair 'still involved' in Middle East; Rwanda scheme resurfaces in unexpected fashion

Former prime minister Sir Tony Blair has told Sky's Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge he's "still involved" in the Middle East, as he outlined his desire for a ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

Thursday 5 September 2024 23:00, UK

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• MPs to get a vote on winter fuel payment cut
• Liz Bates: Government did not seem prepared for level of backlash
• Rwanda scheme resurfaces in unexpected fashion
• Plan to house asylum seekers at old RAF base scrapped
• Rayner 'not happy' with work to remove dangerous cladding
• Dominic Waghorn: PM may have useful partner in 'Brexit bogeyman'
• Live reporting by Tim Baker and (earlier) Faith Ridler

Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge highlights

• Watch: Tony Blair 'still involved' in Middle East
• Ex-PM 'worried' about rise of 'macho leaders'
• Sam Coates: Why Blair should be treated sceptically
• Watch Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  Monday-Thursday at 7pm

Explained: Our latest essential guides

• Who's running to be Tory leader
• Tax rises: What might go up | How council tax could change | What chancellor could do to pensions

It's 10pm and things are wrapping up for the night in Westminster.

Here's what you need to know before you head to bed:

• MPs will get to vote  on the government's proposed cut to who gets the  winter fuel payment ;
• It comes after weeks of pressure on the prime minister and chancellor, including from some Labour MPs, and focus will now turn to limiting a rebellion when the Commons votes  next Tuesday .
• Number 10 has vowed to "change the law" if building owners don't speed up the removal of unsafe cladding;
• But Sir Tony Blair told Sky News that tragedies like Grenfell cannot be completely stopped ;
• It comes in the wake of the Grenfell inquiry's final report , which yesterday blamed "systematic dishonesty" from cladding and insulation companies and "decades of failure" in government for the tragedy;
• Sir Tony also confirmed he was "still involved" in the Middle East - and gave some advice to Sir Keir Starmer on running a government ;
• But deputy political editor Sam Coates warned that some scepticism about Sir Tony's words was needed .
• The Home Office has scrapped a plan by Rishi Sunak's government to house asylum seekers at an old RAF base in Lincolnshire;
• RAF Scampton will now be sold off after it was decided the plan didn't represent "value for money" .

We're pausing our live coverage for tonight.

Thank you for joining us today.

The government has confirmed MPs will get a vote on plans to means test the winter fuel payment for pensioners.

One Labour rebel, Rachael Maskell, has written in The Daily Telegraph to lay out why she is opposed to the government's plan.

"The fear is that, if we withdraw winter fuel payments for those in fuel poverty, it will lead to excess deaths," she says.

Ms Maskell, who has been an MP since 2015 and served as a shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn, added: "Those just above the pension credit threshold will end up worse off than those who qualify. 

"Without tapering, the cliff edge of pension credit is a blunt instrument for those who have worked hard and saved yet live on the poverty line."

Under the government's plans, only those on pension credit would be eligible for winter fuel payments.

With such a sizeable majority, it would take a rebellion of hundreds of Labour MPs to overturn the government's plan in next week's vote.

But a big pushback could force concessions in order to avoid embarrassment.

Is the Treasury to blame?

Earlier today, Ed Balls - who worked as an adviser to Gordon Brown when he was chancellor - laid the blame for the policy at the feet of the Treasury and its civil servants.

Speaking on the Political Currency podcast, he said: "I think [Chancellor Rachel Reeves] will have been given a list of things and told she has to do one of them, and I think she's probably, in retrospect, quite annoyed at the Treasury for pushing her into an immediate decision like this. 

"She may have felt, in retrospect, it was bad advice. 

"And she'll be acutely aware of the politics, because the reality is this isn't just a storm in a teacup."

By Faye Brown , political reporter

Hereditary peers will not be banned from re-joining the Lords as life peers under government reforms to the upper chamber.

Abolishing the 92 seats reserved for hereditary members was one of Labour's manifesto commitments.

But Baroness Smith of Basildon, the leader of the Lords, today confirmed there could be a route back for those individuals - as life peers.

"I can confirm that if members leave this House as hereditary peers, there is no block at all of them coming back as life peers if their party so wishes to introduce them," Baroness Smith said.

A life peer is nominated by the prime minister, though by convention the Leader of the Opposition and other party leaders can propose a certain number.

Traditionally, the title is awarded to individuals on retirement from important public office and allows them to be a member of the House of Lords for life.

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Former Labour MP Harriet Harman has called for the police to act "quicker" when it comes to their investigation into the Grenfell Tower fire.

The public inquiry into the west London blaze that saw 72 killed in 2017 delivered its final report on Wednesday.

It accused successive governments of "failing to act", despite knowing the risk of certain cladding and insulation, as well as criticising the "systematic dishonesty" of the firms behind the materials.

But speaking on Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction podcast , the Labour peer said the seven years the probe took was "too long" as she appealed for police to move faster with prosecutions.

"I'd be saying to the police, you've got to get on with your inquiry as quickly as possible," she said. "The idea that after seven years of a public inquiry, there's got to be another two years before they decide on prosecutions... you've got to crack on and do it quicker.

"Don't leave it till the end of 2026. People have waited long enough for that."

Listen to the latest episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast from 6am on Friday

By Paul Kelso , business correspondent

The chief executive of Thames Water has insisted he can rescue the debt-laden utility, which faces running out of cash in months if it cannot raise fresh equity.

Speaking after the environment secretary announced new legislation threatening water company bosses with jail alongside a review of the industry, Mr Weston told Sky News he was untroubled by the threat of prosecution, and confident he can turn around the troubled company.

"I need to digest what the secretary of state said today, I am completely aligned with what he's trying to do in cleaning up the rivers," he said.

"I'm focused, like he is, on getting investment and I will work with the secretary of state to do that. I am very encouraged by the tone I heard and I will work with him to try to do what he's outlined to do."

Asked directly if he could save Thames Water, he said: "I can save it."

With around £18bn of debt and cash reserves only until next May, Mr Weston is racing to raise fresh investment after existing shareholders withdrew plans for £3.5bn of fresh equity.

A topic of conversation on Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge tonight is a new law which will see stiffer penalties for water companies - and possible jail sentences for their bosses if they don't deal with sewage.

It's also the main topic on our latest Daily podcast.

Niall Paterson spoke to business correspondent Paul Kelso , who was there, for his assessment of what it could mean for the companies and bill payers.  

Plus, as police investigating the Grenfell Tower fire warn it could be at least a year until they hand over evidence to prosecutors, Niall speaks to Chris Daw KC, author of Justice On Trial, on why it is going to take so long for the survivors and bereaved families to get justice.

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Deputy political editor Sam Coates has listened to tonight's interview with Sir Tony Blair twice now.

Speaking to Sophy Ridge , Sam thinks he may have spotted a warning for the current Labour prime minister from his political predecessor.

Sam highlights a section where Sophy asked the New Labour architect about whether Sir Keir Starmer was radical enough.

Sam points out Sir Tony "compared his government and Keir's government" and claimed the 1997 administration had a series of easy wins with things like independence of the Bank of England, changing the rules on gay rights, and introducing the mayor of London.

Sir Tony then compared these to Sir Keir's "missions", Sam says, and that success will depend on those missions.

Sam goes on: "That's not an endorsement - each one of those things that [Sir Tony] did was a political risk, a huge political risk that he pushed through and got political credit for. 

"And he's admitting that Keir Starmer doesn't have that kind of ambitious agenda.

"And he's saying, well, the missions will work if they work."

'A little bit of narcissism'

On a broader point, Sam says Sir Tony was advertising a "style" of government - building a good team - and then "telling Keir Starmer that's the model".

But our deputy political editor urged some scepticism, saying Sir Tony seemed to be advertising his institute that "sells help with governance to friendly - and other - governments all around the world".

"There was a little bit of, dare I say, narcissism in what we saw from Tony Blair today - because what he did was sit there and go: I know best, I'll tell you for a fee," Sam concludes.

For many, prime minister Sir Tony Blair's legacy is defined by his foreign policy decisions regarding the Middle East - most notably the Iraq war.

And he tells Sophy Ridge he's "still involved" in "quite a lot" regarding what's happening in the region now.

He was asked for his thoughts on Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu, who has found himself under increasing pressure from Western allies to do a ceasefire deal with Hamas.

Sir Tony wouldn't comment on "individual leaders" as "that wouldn't be very helpful to what I'm doing".

Without elaborating on what his role is, the former Labour leader says: "The most important thing is that we get a ceasefire that's sustainable and that we find a path back to some concept of security for the Israelis and self-determination for the Palestinians."

Speaking to tonight's  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge , former prime minister Sir Tony Blair is asked about an increase of "strong man" or "macho" leaders.

Sir Tony says he is "worried" about the trend - and that it's important to understand why it's happening.

The former leader - who famously proposed a "third way" of UK politics and advocated a centrist position - said the reason for the increase was the lack of a "strong centre that's delivering".

But he defends the centre as not "the mushy middle between left and right", but rather "the place of solutions".

Sir Tony claims politics and political allegiances have become "more fractured" - and this will only continue as technology develops, reducing voters' traditional loyalties to certain parties.

'Solutions beat strongmen'

He says: "The other thing that's going to happen is that people are, if there are grievances, they are going to expect you to deal with them. 

"And the centre has got to be the place that you deal with them."

Sir Tony says it is no good to just say various groups are "extreme" and try to manage the problem that way.

"If you want to defeat this sort of strongman populism, they're defeated by the solutions," he says.

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