Gerrit, Wooden boats of conventional construction (non epoxy sealed) have an entire additional set of potential problems in addition to those of a typical fiberglass trawler. Fiberglass can be neglected for long periods, yet can nearly always be brought back to good condition with some application of money and effort. Wooden boats require constant attention, especially in warm and humid environments such as Florida, or they get very sick and die. Wood hulls eventually rot, lose strength, and become unsafe. As wood boats go, the Grand Banks were better built than average, but they are still wood. You say this will be a first boat purchase, but you don't mention your background. Perhaps you are a carpenter or cabinetmaker. If so, this may be a reasonable choice. The hull will eventually, and may already, need a lot of work. Wooden boats these days should be owned by those who love wooden boats. If, on the other hand you are interested in this wooden boat due to a relatively low price, think again. Few yards have the skills to do quality repairs on wood hulls, and the cost of any but the most minor repairs will be exhorbitant. As a first time boat owner, you will have plenty of small problems with even the simplest of fiberglass boats in this size, why make the experience more difficult than it has to be? If you insist on a wooden boat, it is especially important to find a trustworthy surveyor who is expert on wood boats; there aren't many of these around anymore, either. Good luck and happy boat hunting. == Mark Richter, M.E., aboard M/V Winnie the Pooh custom Morgan 46 Trawler. Homeport Stuart, FL lying Stuart, FL through Feb 15. "Mark's Mobile Marine" electrical & diesel repairs See you at Trawlerfest Melbourne _________________________________________________________ DO YOU YAHOO!? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com