Viability of basa cored hulls in the International 11 meter

[celt]

I'm in the market for another boat to feed my addiction and I've run across a few Trojan 11 meter and above with balsa cored hulls, My first instinct is to avoid them (I've had experience with balsa cored decks) but I see a number of them still around. Does anyone who has the experience with this subject have an opinion as to whether they are worth considering? I should add I know a good surveyor with a moisture meter can detect if moisture has penetrated the hull; however, I am reluctant to pay for a haul out and survey (approx $1K) to find out, especially if it is a common problem with these boats.

Any ideas/advice from the trojan community?

Celt

[BobCT]

As a rule, Trojan did a good job with the coring from the factory. I don't think you'll find any "factory" construction issues in this regard but that was also a long time ago. Ideally, you'll want to find a boat where a minimal amount of "through the hull" upgrades have been done. Again, time alone might make that a tough find.

Anything that's exposed the coring must be sealed with epoxy to prevent any issues. A good surveyor with a moisture meter can easily spot problem areas. If ok AND you go ahead with a purchase, I would systematically remove all hull fittings and verify that epoxy was used. There's always a chance that someone just used sealant which could be ok now but will not hold up long term.

Bottom line, definitely not a problem boat and certainly worth looking at. Trojan built some great boats over the years and the 11m is a nice one.

Bob

[RWS]

Trojan did the balsa hulls right.

You might even say they OVERDID it right.

The coring and vacuum liners are top notch.

Weak points can be portlites and the non opening deck lites.

The 11 is a very versatile design with tremendous space accommodations.

Similar to the ten meter, but exponentially so, between her usable space and stable ride the "feel" is that of a much larger boat.

RWS

[RENTNERMARINE]

Always pay close attention to the stantion areas and the nav lights. There is a light fixture on the port side that can.come down and u can.check the nav light area. Also look for discoloration around the windows in the fabric like above mentioned.