We are looking at a 21metre steel trawler and going to have a physical look at the boat in the water next week. just wondering if anyone can tell us what we need to look for. eg corrosion? how do we recognise it? do they need to scratch it to see what is below?The boat has lost some paint on the hull and in the photos looks pretty rusty, but we are going to dive down and take a look so just wondering if someone can give us some things to look for because we have only had much smaller boats before and they have been fibreglass.appreciatethanks

As the owner of a steel boat l could write chapters on this but l will try to keep it brief. Look for corrosion anywhere water can sit as well as anywhere wood touches the steel or maintenance can not be easily done (close areas, such as under engine beds etc), & areas where dissimilar metals exist such as a bronze propeller on a stainless shaft. Make sure the galvanic protection exists & is in good condition- severely wasted zincs could be a sign of problems. Do yourself a favor- hire a surveyor - it will save a lot of money in the long run.

that is a lot of metal. l am with Carlo, get a surveyor that really knows metal boats. there is a lot you cant see. such as weakened steel from electrolysis. l had a friend that hired 3 diff. surveyors before he bought his 80 footer steel . said he just wanted to be sure. that could be a great boat, have fun.