You've Bought An Ex Charter Catamaran - What Do you Look for?

When acquiring an ex-charter catamaran, a thorough inspection is crucial to ensure you are making a well-informed decision. In this episode, we embark on an in-depth examination of a Leopard 40 catamaran, formerly part of a charter fleet in the Caribbean.

Background and Purpose

The Leopard 40 catamaran had recently been withdrawn from charter operations and brought to Lagoon Catamarans for short-term storage. The owners requested a professional inspection to identify any potential issues or areas of concern, particularly in the vessel’s mechanical and electrical systems.

Initial Findings

Upon initial inspection, a few minor concerns were identified, including loose or disconnected wiring connections and signs of potential water intrusion in the vessel’s bilges. Additionally, some rust staining and stress cracks suggested that the catamaran had likely experienced a grounding event at some point.

Detailed Inspection Procedure

Our detailed inspection encompassed multiple critical components of the catamaran, including:

• Bilges and water pumps
• Windlass and chain condition
• Engine room equipment and access
• Solar system
• Batteries
• Fuel filters and electrical connections

In this episode, we take viewers through each step of our inspection process, identifying both minor issues requiring immediate attention as well as more significant concerns like water intrusion and potential ground damage. Throughout the video, the narrator emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive check when considering an ex-charter catamaran purchase.

Inspection Results

Despite the minor issues found, the Leopard 40 performed quite well during the inspection. The fuel filters and electrical connections were deemed functional with some minor corrosion present. The bilge areas showed signs of potential water intrusion but no ongoing issues.

Next Steps

For prospective buyers, the inspection highlights the importance of a thorough examination when purchasing an ex-charter catamaran. In particular, inspecting mechanical and electrical systems as well as evaluating the vessel’s overall condition and maintenance history can prevent potential future issues.

Conclusion

This episode offers valuable insight into the process of inspecting an ex-charter catamaran and emphasizes that even a seemingly well-maintained vessel should undergo a thorough examination. It provides an educational perspective on what to look for when purchasing such a boat, ultimately assisting viewers in making informed decisions.