scrappapertiger

Thanks for the helpful comments. I forgot my login so haven't got back in to comment for a few days We're going back to having a serious think about this...

Yup, seen the last transfer docs and will be calling Scottish canals to confirm, but that bit all looks fine.

I guess the big thing making us look more is that the mooring, business prospects and interior of the boat itself are all somewhat unique and very well suited to us. It's the structural integrity (how much fixing) and related asking price that's a concern - weighing up the two is the big issue. The current engine apparently blew out after a botched job fixing a kinked cooling pipe about four years ago and has been having overheating issues since, despite a rebuild... The owner is recommending selling it on and getting a new one (though given he hasn't been able to figure out the exact cause of the overheating, the resale price doesn't feel like something we can count on).

Hi everyone, we are new to the community and new to boating, so looking for some advice on a boat we are considering buying (for a small business with commercial mooring; not live aboard). Before viewing the boat we were advised (by boating friends, sadly not local so couldn't come along) to look out for rust on the waterline and in the bilge. There seems to be rust in both areas (see pics), though we're unsure how superficial. The owner unfortunately has not had a survey done, though it has been out for reblacking about three years ago and he says should be slightly overdue another three coats now (Comastic). It's a 55ft 1999 narrowboat which will also be needing a new engine. Obviously we'd be looking to get a full survey done before commiting anything, but my question is, based on these issues, is it worth it at all or would it be better (particularly given our inexperience) to walk away (or possibly try to haggle down substantially)? We're not shy of doing the work, but would like to pay a fair price and know what we might be walking into. Perhaps estimated price ranges (for boat or work) would also be useful, though I know this might not really be enough info to go on. Thanks in advance! Attached are some pics we took of the rusty areas: