1960's versus 1980's boats

[Sailkat]

Our shortlist of boats is between a 1960's vintage Hinckley 30 and a 1980's vintage Bristol 31 or 35. Obviously, the Hinckley has a great pedigree and beautiful lines, but the interior seems a bit spartan in the way it is finished compared to the (relatively) newer and warmer feeling Bristol. (I want my wife/first mate comfortable and happy.) The lack of physical interior space on the Hinckley isn't a huge concern since the boat will mainly be used for daysailing and the occasional overnighter, at least for the next year or so. But should I be concerned that the Bristol has a 30 year old cored deck versus the Hinckley's solid glass deck? Or is there reason to be worried about the Hinckley's fiberglass since it's almost 20 years older? All are in the same price range so that isn't an issue and on deck, all seem to be in equally well-cared for condition. Thanks.

[SVCarolena]

Both boats will require a survey to determine the true condition. Cored decks can be a problem if the previous owners didn't keep up with sealing deck hardware, or if there are cracks in the outer laminate. On the other hand, either boat could have blister problems. They are both known to be well built, sold boats, so I would suggest going with the one that you and your wife like best then have it surveyed prior to making any final decisions.

[petmac]

Originally Posted by Sailkat

Our shortlist of boats is between a 1960's vintage Hinckley 30 and a 1980's vintage Bristol 31 or 35. Obviously, the Hinckley has a great pedigree and beautiful lines, but the interior seems a bit spartan in the way it is finished compared to the (relatively) newer and warmer feeling Bristol. (I want my wife/first mate comfortable and happy.) The lack of physical interior space on the Hinckley isn't a huge concern since the boat will mainly be used for daysailing and the occasional overnighter, at least for the next year or so. But should I be concerned that the Bristol has a 30 year old cored deck versus the Hinckley's solid glass deck? Or is there reason to be worried about the Hinckley's fiberglass since it's almost 20 years older? All are in the same price range so that isn't an issue and on deck, all seem to be in equally well-cared for condition. Thanks.

Cored decks on Bristols have had problems. Make sure you have boat surveyed. Fiberglass on older Hinckley not an issue. Again,have her surveyed. I've owned both Hinckley and Bristol sailboats. I am on my second Hinckley. The Hinckley 30 is not a great sailor. Spend a bit of extra cash and buy a Pilot 35. Beautiful sailing boat and the nicest lines in the fleet. Nicer interior. I owned one for ten years. With respect to the Bristol that I owned,I had to replace core in sections of the deck and refinish the decks.
Good luck.

[Sailkat]

Thanks for the insight. It's very helpful.