A Boating Enthusiast’s Journey: Restoring a Budget Sportscruiser to Its Former Glory
There is a charm in the uncommon, and Paul Fareham found it in a 34-foot Sunseeker sportscruiser which cost him less than a standard car. While many dreamed of such venture, Fareham did it, and faced more than just a raised eyebrow or two. Doubters called him out, while others labelled his purchase as a floating disaster.
Truth be told, he had purchased a liability hiding in the guise of a genuine bargain. A once magnificent Sunseeker, its glory tarnished by years of disregard, dubious repairs, and mechanical secrets waiting to spill out. Despite this, Fareham saw an opportunity where most saw problems.
Fareham is not a trained mechanic. His tale is not one of professional prowess, rather it is a story of determination, perseverance and a relentless passion to problem-solve. His career spanned 27 years in the Ambulance Service and it sculpted a crucial trait in him – the ability to engage with problems, navigate through them, and find a resolution.
The Sunseeker XPS 34 was an 80s gem, designed with a remarkable performance hull by the illustrious Don Shead. However, the version Fareham picked up had seen better days. He had to see beyond the worn-out facade, and trust his passion for boating.
Despite the intricate process, Fareham enjoyed the restoration. Every step brought its own set of challenges. However, his dedication and desire to restore the vintage model made every hardship worthwhile. The journey of transformation from wreckage to wonder is a tale of how an enthusiast turned a lapse into an opportunity, and a liability into an asset.
- •I bought this fixer-upper Sunseeker for £13,000. Here’s what I learned mby.com28-05-2026