How Scrapping a Sadler 32 Saved This Owner Over £3,000 in Marina Fees
When Repair Costs Sink a Sale: Recycling a Sadler 32 at Chichester Marina
At first glance, the Sadler 32 we recently collected from Chichester Marina looked like a dream boat. With her classic lines and well-maintained exterior, she had been listed for sale at £9,000. However, as many seasoned sailors know, a boat’s true story is often hidden beneath the waterline.
The Survey That Changed Everything
The vessel’s journey toward recycling began when a pre-purchase survey delivered some devastating news. The surveyor identified extensive osmosis and signs of delamination in the hull. Further investigation revealed that the keel bolts were badly corroded, causing the keel to flex, a major structural red flag.
The numbers simply didn’t add up:
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Market Value: £9,000
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Estimated Repair Costs: £15,000
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Upcoming Annual Mooring Fees: £6,000
Faced with a total bill that far exceeded the boat’s worth, the owners needed a swift, professional solution to avoid the looming renewal fees. By choosing Boatbreakers, they managed to save over £3,000 in storage costs alone.
Giving New Life Through Salvage
While the hull was no longer sea-worthy, the Sadler 32 was a treasure trove of high-quality parts. Our team got to work ensuring as much of the vessel as possible was recycled and reused.
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The Engine: She featured a modern Beta Marine engine that was in excellent condition. We removed it and it has already been installed in another vessel.
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On-Deck Gear: The sprayhood, winches, and electronics were all salvaged and sold.
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Interior Fittings: Even the woodwork found a home; the cabin table and various internal fittings were taken by another boat owner at the yard to upgrade their own craft.
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Recycling: The mast, metal deck fittings, and the keel were all processed for metal recycling.
A Smart Financial Exit
This case study highlights the reality of boat ownership. When a survey reveals structural failure, the most realistic and financially responsible decision is often to recycle. The Sadler 32 owners avoided the stress of a failed sale and the burden of expensive mooring fees, while their boat’s components live on in other vessels.
Do you have a boat that has failed its survey or become too expensive to maintain? Contact Boatbreakers today for a professional quote on recycling and salvage.
