I had the boat checked out last year by a tugboat captain who's a
friend of mine, and I forwarded him your suggestions. You mentioned
some points I hadn't considered, but overall I really do think the boat
is structurally sound. Certainly the systems need to be checked, and
I'll have someone take a look at the wood. When I got into the engine,
I noticed he'd put in a new starter, so there is a chance he wasn't
entirely negligent.

Now, onto the next part of my original post...does anyone know a
Philadelphia-area mechanic (or someone who could check the systems,
make sure its seaworthy, etc)? I can't imagine that Phila Boat Supply
is giving me the best deal.