I had a trip to Potter Heigham today and Patrick Richardsons Yard to Survey this little Motor Cruiser. One of the earliest production GRP motor cruisers! The Freeman 22 was launched in 1957 by John Freeman of Hinckley, Lestershire. They became one of the major motor cruiser builders of the 60’s and 70’s with a reputation for smart boats. In 1964 the 22 was modified to give increased headroom forward with a distinct step in the deck line. This example has the step, and was built in 1969. Over 1500 22’s were built up to 1970, when the boat was superseded by the Freeman 23.
Surveyors comments:
The fore decks delaminate and become spongy under foot. This is common on the older ones. Many owners of the older Broads Boats will elect to repair the deck core without removing the deck skin. On smaller areas especially this will be the case. Sometimes, though, the glass skin is just too difficult to remove, or, it's an old boat, like this one, and you just don't want to expend the time and effort. It's possible in these cases to perforate the outer skin with drilled holes, dry the area underneath, and then inject with penetrating epoxy sealer/resin or foam, and then close the holes with epoxy filler.
Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at:
steventruss1@aol.com
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| The Freeman Cruiser 22 offered luxury classic cruising for its time. Based on the Freeman Caravans it is the original 'caravan afloat'! |
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| The boats were fitted with 35HP Ford Watermota petrol engines or 50HP Perkins diesels, with speeds up to 9 or 10 knots.... this one has the petrol engine. |
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| The boat has 4 berths in a layout which is basically open plan but it can be divided into two cabins by opening the hanging locker door out across the boat |
The fore decks delaminate and become spongy under foot. This is common on the older ones. Many owners of the older Broads Boats will elect to repair the deck core without removing the deck skin. On smaller areas especially this will be the case. Sometimes, though, the glass skin is just too difficult to remove, or, it's an old boat, like this one, and you just don't want to expend the time and effort. It's possible in these cases to perforate the outer skin with drilled holes, dry the area underneath, and then inject with penetrating epoxy sealer/resin or foam, and then close the holes with epoxy filler.
Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at:
steventruss1@aol.com
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