Advice re boat

[gabaj]

I am finally thinking of buying a boat and I have a couple of questions.

What is the ideal motor for a 15ft open boat that may need to carry 4 people and what is the minimum motor size that would push such a boat.

What type of boat ( size 15ft) is the best for fishing and pleasure,which is the best for each activity.

What would be the market price of a decent 15ft boat with a 40hp motor.

I am aware that I am asking a lot of questions at one go but I have no idea where to start.

[gottie]

Well, it all depends on engine age and boat condition. So price might vary. But I think that a 40 to 60 HP engine should be fine for a 15 foot boat. If you intend on going offshore you should make sure that the motor  is not very old.

I suggest that if you see a particular boat you like, you should post the details and we can provide feedback on that particular boat and engine.

Now is the right time to buy a boat because many people want to sell now that summer is coming to an end. So you might get a good deal.

[busumark]

for a 15ft boat and 4 persons a 40hp motor is a bit small. a two-stroke 75hp or four-stroke 90hp is better. for fishing and pleasure go and see the 15ft kaptan. a very good boat for its size.

[gabaj]

Thanks to all for the feedback.

Can anyone suggest where I can look apart from maltapark, The Times and boats parked outside with 'for sale ' on them?

I heard that there are a couple of dealers that specialise in second hand boats,even though the price would be hiked up at these dealers I can get an idea of what is available since I know very little on boat models ,sizes etc.

[gottie]

You can also try in the classified section of di-ve.com

http://classifieds.di-ve.com/classifieds/CPViewInCat.asp?ID=60

[gabaj]

One more question because I forgot to list it in my previous post.

What size of motor requires the driver to have a maratime licence?

[kempy]

i might be wrong but from whet i heard any thing from 9.9 does not need a licence

[gabaj]

Thanks Gottie but I didn't put the question right. I am referring to the mariner's licence for the driver not the motor. I heard that under 75hp one does not need to go through the training course and get a licence but probably I have the wrong info.

[benri]

There is still some doubt on the mariner's licence. You definately need to have one if you drive a motor above 100hp but then there is another clause in the legal notice that says you need one also if your boat reaches a certain number of knots (if I'm not mistaken 12 knots) irrespective of the motor size. the second law does not seem to be being enforced yet but it soon will! therefore, if I were you I'd apply for the basic seaman course but be prepared to spend lm55.00 and also for a wait list!

[kempy]

if i bought a boat is it possible to register the boat in my friends name who has a licence then take it out my self ?

[skip]

Possible of course, but you'll STILL get busted and so will he probably as a) you wont' be licensed to drive it and b) you won't be insured to drive it either, making you both responsible.

If he always comes out with you, that's a different story. Do the course, it's not that hard and evenings.

[kempy]

can you post the number or the address i need to apply? Thank you in advance. Also could you post the exact laws and needs of the boat and the driver as no one really seems to know exacly what is required

[skip]

Basic Seamanship & Safe Boathandling MI/MC 31hrs 2 weeks 55.00 128.12

Safety and management of risk begins with the measurable skills of shiphandling and piloting. During this course delegates will cover the following topics: Basic navigation, signals, local regulations, seamanship, rules of road, and basic engine knowledge. Candidates must be of a minium age of 18 years. Delegates would have to sit for and oral exam and a practical assessments at the end of the course. On successful completion of the course ans examinations, candidates will be issued with a letter (from MCAST) authorising them to apply for a mechanically driven craft driving licence issued by the Malta Maritime Authority. Price in Euro 128.12 (for official use)

You can apply online http://www.mcastshortcourses.gov.mt/

Contact MMA with any specific questions info@mma.gov.mt

[gottie]

I can confirm that so far the obligatory requirement for a Nautical licence is for over 100 HP. However in the near future it is intended that this goes down to 75hp. Nevertheless as I said, at the moment its definately 100 hp or over.

[gabaj]

Thanks guys for all the info.Keep it up!!!!!!!