Carver Owners Forum

Greetings,
New owner of a 1973 Carver 2565 Santa Cruz that got abandoned almost 12 years ago. Just brought her home last week from Lake Erie to my farm in Carolina for the restoration project. The price was to good to pass for boat and trailer under $100.00. Oh yea, there is some work to be done. I've cleaned her up from the critters who moved in and stayed for years it appeared, some wood rot but minimal. Overall she wasn't in too bad of shape for being 43 years old. Have no idea what shape the engine is in other than it appeared to had been winterized in 2005. Will be looking for suggestions on various issues, like the engine, outdrive, etc.... Plan to try to find manuals are a must. Trailer was in excellent shape. I'm not in a rush, and have time to bring her back. I'm excited about getting started so wish me luck and feed me lots of good tips. Thanks - Fred

Welcome aboard Fred. Always good to hear of an old girl being rescued from the scrap heap and being brought back to life so she can be enjoyed once again. My hats off to you and thanks for keeping an older model alive. It's part of our brand's history!

Good luck bringing her back to glory. Glad to see someone who is willing to bring her back. Keep us updated.

Welcome aboard and please post updates with pix!

My father and I restored a sister to this a few years back. The project was highly satisfying and the bright work always brought a great deal of attention everywhere we went. I have a great deal of information and lessons learned if you wish. The most important tip I can give you is this boat needs to be stored under cover. The vinyl over wood deck doesn’t like exposure to UV or the elements. After several seasons of enjoyment we sold her to a doctor from Pensacola Florida. It was a show piece for sure. If you lose interest I’d be interested. Please feel free to contact me edvallad@charter.net

A few pics from our restoration

A few more

Few more again

Well, it looks like I just got knocked down a few more pegs on the "who has the oldest boat" list!!!

Looks like a good project!! Nice pics Valade12!!! Gives someone a good idea what to shoot for!!

I did a 72 Trojan total remake from the hull up. I can understand the challenge and the challenges!!! Was a lot of fun and I learned a LOT!!

That is one nice looking boat. Anyone would be proud to own her.