"Ellie" wrote in message
om...
I am interested in ANY opinions on these boats.
Particularly any aspects to do with the foam filled hull, as it is
difficult to get much information on this.
What is the life of the foam, and does it degenerate over time?
If so, how can you tell?
Does the foam require any specific monitoring?
Does the foam create more toxic smoke than other fibreglass boats if
there is a fire?
The larger Etaps are classed A (ocean going). Does this hold true of a
30'Etap as well, for example?
Do these boats hold their value as well as some of the more well known
names?

Thanks for any opinions.
This is a first post. Hopefully I have stuck to the guidelines.

liz

I've currently got a Sadler 34 (built 1986), which I have had for 9
years and previously had a Sadler 26 which I had for 10 years from new.

My main fear is hitting something like a semi-submerged container in the
middle of the night in the English Channel, so the concept of an
'unsinkable' boat has always appealed. Liferafts do not appeal! -
although I do carry one as there is always a fire risk.

The Sadler 26 when holed would fill to below bunk level. They could
even be sailed in this condition. The heavier 34 would fill to above
bunk level, but at least remain a safe platform - I've seen pictures of
a 34 with the transom completely stove in after collision being towed
safely back to harbour.

To try to answer the specific points:
I'm not aware of the foam degenerating, nor of any special monitoring
required. I haven't done anything special on my own boats, nor am I
aware of other owners having problems.
I don't know the toxicity of the foam when alight - but once a fire gets
between the skins, I would guess that things were getting pretty
terminal anyway.
Sadlers are pretty well known in UK as being solidly seaworthy, so do
hold their value.

In summary:
The PLUS points:
- Unsinkability
- Lack of internal condensation and a completely dry bilge
- Insulation - warmer in winter
- Shock absorbing - the lack of slamming was particularly noticeable on
my 26 footer which had bilge keels.

The MINUS points:
- If the hull is damaged, repair is more difficult and expensive as one
would have to cut back to remove any damaged or waterlogged foam
(luckily I do not speak from experience!)
- Some relatively slight loss of internal volume and stowage space due
to the thickness of the two skins plus foam.

Tony Boas
Sadler 34 - Bold Warrior