A little while ago I had a conversation with the current owner of the Finesse 24, Seaden. He asked if I could help with her sale…

At the time the owner was suffering from a ‘back ailment’ and was waiting for an operation.

I advertised her on the Finesse face book group page – private, so only be seen by members.

See: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1518607771700636

There are members within the group, supposedly looking for a boat. To date none have progressed into ownership. Several ‘new’ owners have found a vessel through this site and also the newly revamped class site.

See: http://www.finesse-owners-association.co.uk/

The web site has a ‘for sale’ section but has to be updated regularly.

There are several boats currently. Boats come up for sale then disappear of the various broker sites, either sold or taken down. Difficult to follow…

Topsail Marine is a good place to look – see: https://www.topsail.co.uk/

As is Apolloduck: https://www.apolloduck.co.uk/

Currently there appears to be no vessels on the site for sale – unusual!

I have found a F21 which has been on market for some while now…

https://www.yachtworld.co.uk/boats/1973/finesse-21-3672062/

However, back to Seaden.

I visited Conyer this last week during my sister’s cruise.

When dealing with my marina fee, I asked what had happened to Seaden as I could not see her in the mooring last seen in when staying two seasons ago (Crikey, that long – damned Covid-19!).

The office informed me that the poor little ship had taken on water and they had contacted the owner. The owner pumped her out and carried out some remedial work – sorted engine – and the boat was lifted out and chocked up.

The boat was confirmed as being for sale and it is understood from the conversation that the boat is also to be moved.

Talking to the owner, today, it may be to a private yard. I have asked for more details as to the boat’s equipment. The poor chap has been in a slow recovery from his back operation, but said, ‘…all good…’

Here are a series of pictures I took.

The overall condition of hull looks fair for age of vessel and the clear lack of attention in more recent years. The vessel is sail number 14 and was probably built in 1972.

The hull will be of mahogany, including transom and cabin sides. Decks are marine ply, sheaved with woven cloth and epoxy.

Below is a close up of some planking spring/drying in the tuck. I spotted some old filler along the edges. Looks as if some refastening should have been done some years ago and was not!

Below is a close up of some what looks suspiciously like rot. The port edge is similar. Not irreparable.

Deck edges have always been a problem for it is all too easy to sand through the sealing epoxied sheaving to the deck which is turned over shear strake and covered by rubbing band.

Dealing with damage when seen or done saves later heart ache… See articles on Finesse web site about decks and edges.

I have been told that she has a good engine.

Well, I would suggest the vessel is available at a snip of her real value. With effort and a little outlay she will give years of pleasure.

I take no responsibility for the information given and have commented on only what I have seen.

Contacts:

Swale Marina – See: http://www.swalemarina.co.uk/

Owner: Shane Hoadley Tel: 07879 417635

The price stated to me by Shane is £500.

An offer can be made.