It’s the time of the year when anyone thinking of a brand new boat will be close to making a final selection in order to have the dreamship delivered comfortably on time for next season writes W M Nixon.

But equally, at the other end of the boat-owning spectrum, those whose inclination is to restoration of interesting classic craft will be minded to acquire a “project boat” to bring back to life through the coming winter. Admittedly “the winter” can become two or even three years, but when it’s being done properly, the project evolves into an end in itself, a way of life.

However, this 1974 Nelson 40 for sale in Crosshaven through MGM Boats at €34,950 could indeed be in pristine order for the summer of 2017 if her restoration was being done by experienced hands and brains. But the brokers make no bones about her interior needing a complete makeover including total re-wiring, while at the same time observing that the hull is of a proven and very highly-regarded type.

Nelson power yachts were developed from hulls which had originally proven themselves as pilot boats or patrol craft, thus their ability to keep the sea in all weathers is a given. Yet as they also had to deliver their crew in good shape for whatever task was in hand, the showed themselves equally adaptable to being fast power cruisers whose accommodation, while being in different style from the general run of the glamorous and voluminous power yachts, was more than adequate, and many owners who had formerly done their cruising in sailing boats much preferred the more traditional Nelson style.

Certainly with the right kind of attention, this could become a very attractive classic. But you would need to think through the whole process very carefully before taking on what could ultimately be a very rewarding challenge.

See the full advert on Afloat Boats for Sale here.