A Detailed Look at Today’s Pre-Purchase Survey on a 1987 Beneteau First 435 in Preveza

Today I carried out a full pre-purchase condition survey on a 1987 Beneteau First 435 here in Preveza. This German Frers–designed model continues to attract sailors looking for a capable, offshore-oriented cruiser with a strong hull and a performance edge. As with any yacht of this vintage, a complete structural and systems inspection is vital to give prospective buyers a clear understanding of the vessel’s condition before committing to a purchase.

Below is a detailed overview of today’s findings.

Hull, Keel and Underwater Profile

The hull performed well throughout testing. Moisture readings were consistent with solid laminate of this age, with no indications of water retention or osmotic blistering on the main underwater surfaces. Percussion soundings were equally reassuring, giving a strong, even response across the hull.

Corrosion was observed on several keel bolts, particularly amidships, with surface cracking noted on the bolt heads due to advanced rusting. A split mast boot at deck level has allowed freshwater to track down the mast and into the bilge for some time, contributing to this deterioration. The keel-to-hull joint remained fair, but the keel surface itself would benefit from descaling and refinishing.

The rudder showed osmotic blisters and a significant crack to the starboard side with water ingress. This requires grinding out and relaminating but remains repairable without major structural concern.

Deck, Coachroof and Structural Elements

The teak deck showed expected age-related deterioration, including split planks, missing bungs and moisture trapped beneath the teak, evidenced by water rising through seams after overnight rainfall. Despite this, percussion soundings on the sub-deck were strong and no structural weakness was detected. The cockpit teak was serviceable with only minor blemishes.

Across the coachroof, several historic fitting holes had been filled, and a scattering of gelcoat chips were noted near the baby-stay and companionway moulding. These were cosmetic and not structural.

Internally, the hull structure, bulkheads, stringers and floor bearers were in good condition. Some detached lining panels were found in lockers, typical for a yacht of this age, and some laminate lifting was seen on saloon locker doors.

Engine and Mechanical Systems

The Perkins 4.108M engine was inspected visually. A small amount of oil was found in the drip tray, source unknown, requiring monitoring. The copper fuel pipe transitioning to flexible hose near the engine needed securing, as did wiring above the aft engine mount which was rubbing the gearbox casing. Hose clamps on the stern gland cooling line were heavily corroded and due for replacement. The exhaust muffler showed a small pinhole at the aft seam.

The stern gear itself was in good condition, with the P-bracket, shaft alignment and cutlass bearing showing no obvious defects.

Thinking of buying a yacht in Preveza and need help with a marine survey?

The Perkins 4.108M is widely regarded as one of the most reliable small marine diesels ever produced. Originally based on the automotive Perkins 4.108 block, the same engine family was famously used in traditional London black taxis, agricultural machinery and light commercial vehicles, earning a reputation for durability and straightforward maintenance. The marine version retains this robust heritage, offering a strong cast-iron block, simple mechanical fuel injection and an uncomplicated cooling system that makes it easy to service and repair in almost any part of the world. Parts availability remains excellent due to the engine’s extensive production history. Provided routine servicing is maintained and common age-related items such as hoses, clamps and mounts are kept in check, the Perkins 4.108M can deliver many decades of dependable operation, even in demanding cruising environments.

Electronics and Navigation Equipment

The vessel carried a comprehensive suite of navigation electronics, though several faults were detected:

• The radar reported “no connection found”

• The helm plotter had UV damage to the touchscreen

• The smaller plotter returned “no GPS fix”

• The compass and cover were degraded due to sun exposure

These issues require investigation before the yacht is used offshore.

Navigation lights were tested and all found operational.

Rig and Sails

A drone inspection allowed close examination of the upper terminals, where corrosion was visible on several bottle screws and fittings near the spreaders. The standing rigging appeared original and is now beyond the typical 10-year insurance service life, therefore renewal is strongly recommended.

The sails and running rigging were stored ashore at the time of survey and were not inspected. The prospective buyers will be reviewing these with the broker separately.

Freshwater ingress at the mast step was noted due to a split mast boot, resulting in water pooling around the keel bolts and contributing to their corrosion.

Safety Equipment and Onboard Systems

The life raft was last serviced in 2017 and requires immediate attention for insurance compliance. Other safety items, including fire extinguishers and emergency tiller, were present but should be checked for service dates.

The gas locker had a large hole drilled at the top which needs sealing to prevent LPG entering the vessel. Copper pipework showed light corrosion at the locker entry, and the installation would benefit from fitting a shut-off valve at the cooker end, although this was not required at the time of original build.

The freshwater system, calorifier, pumps and accumulator were in good order, as were both marine toilets and the black water tank installation.

Overall Assessment

The 1987 Beneteau First 435 remains a strong, well-built offshore cruiser with an excellent pedigree. Structurally, today’s yacht performed well in all major areas, with the hull, bulkheads, internal stiffening and primary engineering installations presenting as sound for a vessel of this age.

Most of the findings relate to predictable maintenance items typically associated with yachts over 35 years old: rigging renewal, teak deck fatigue, rudder laminate repair, mast-step sealing, keel bolt treatment, and updating of ageing electronic equipment.

With these areas addressed, the vessel would represent a capable and reassuring platform for extended cruising.

If you require a professional survey, valuation or technical inspection anywhere in Preveza, Lefkada or the Ionian region, I offer fully independent assessments following the IIMS Codes of Practice.

For more information, visit:www.yachtsurveysgreece.comor email: steventruss1@aol.com