So it isn't a 31, but..
I have been lurking here for quite a while, salivating. For a number of years it has been clear that at some point it would have to be a Bertram. While that sounds straightforward enough, it also means that I would have to import one - as I live in Oslo, Norway, and the Berties are slim pickings here. The pier at my house is too small to accommodate a 31, but a 25 fits - so a 25 it must be (or possibly a 28, but we're pushing it. Also, I am partial to the Ray Hunt hulls)! So far so good.
While the 25-board was still alive and kicking I did some hanging around there as well. Many clean and tempting member boats for inspiration - both original and creative. However, I did develop a bit of a yearning for the Riva Bertram 25. I think the beautiful hull lines are further emphasised by the Riva's rounded screens and nice woodwork inside. So I started to look for a good one..
..and found a lot of neglected crappy ones. Some were just dogs, others were "recently restored" and looked equally terrible. And a few were nice. After a lot of searching, I settled on a very honest and good-looking boat in Italy - got tickets, went and saw the boat and fell in love. Partially restored. The bits that are restored are brilliant, and the ones that are not are in very honest, good shape. Engines and transmissions are oldish but well maintained, hull is undamaged with a new coat of Awlgrip, superstructure is undamaged and looks great, and the interior is restored. The owner has been obsessive with details on the ground that he has covered, but hasn't done anything halfway or made cover-ups on the bits not yet addressed. Biggest worry is the original tank. Will have to get back to that.
![Image](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e128/larsmyren66/On%20trailer_zpsuloxhept.jpg)
Contract is signed, but the boat is still in Italy - can't wait to get it here!!
Looking forward to sharing the journey with you, and hope I can play even if it isn't a 31..
Lars
![Image](http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e128/larsmyren66/20150524_115825_zpsqkesm0wa.jpg)