Askeladden Commuter 805

2014 Askeladden Commuter 805: What Buyers and Owners Should Know Before the Next Season If you’re looking at the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805, chances are you already know it has a strong reputation as a practical, well-built commuter boat. It’s the kind of boat that appeals to people who want a reliable cabin cruiser for coastal trips, family outings, fishing, or just getting from A to B without giving up comfort. But like many boats in this size and age range, the real question isn’t just whether it looks good on paper. It’s whether it still makes sense for your needs today. That’s where many buyers and owners run into the same problem: they like the boat, but they’re not sure how to evaluate its condition, what to watch for, or how to get the most out of it without unpleasant surprises later. A 2014 model can still be a very smart purchase, but only if you know what to inspect, what maintenance matters most, and how to match the boat to real-world use. In this article, we’ll break down the key things to know about the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805, common ownership concerns, and practical ways to solve them so you can make a more confident decision. - What Makes the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 Stand Out The Askeladden Commuter 805 sits in a sweet spot for many boaters. It’s large enough to feel stable and capable in rougher conditions, but still compact enough to handle without the complexity of a much bigger cruiser. That balance is one of the main reasons it remains interesting to buyers years after launch. For many owners, the appeal comes down to three things: - A practical cabin layout - Solid coastal performance - A design that works for mixed-use boating It’s not just a day boat, and it’s not a full-size yacht either. That middle ground is exactly why people keep searching for the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 when they want a boat that can do a bit of everything. The commuter-style layout is especially useful in colder or changeable climates. Instead of relying only on open-deck boating, you get protection from wind, spray, and rain. That means more usable boating days, which is a big deal if you live somewhere where the weather can shift quickly. - The Most Common Problem: Buying or Owning Without a Clear Inspection Plan The biggest issue people face with a used 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 isn’t usually the model itself. It’s the uncertainty around condition. A boat from 2014 may be well cared for, lightly used, and ready to go. Or it may have hidden wear from years of saltwater exposure, neglected servicing, or poor winter storage. Since boats age differently depending on use, two identical models can be in completely different shape. That creates a common problem: People fall in love with the layout or brand reputation and skip the deeper checks that matter. Typical concerns include: - Engine history and service records - Hull condition and signs of impact - Electrical system reliability - Cabin moisture or water intrusion - Wear on windows, seals, and fittings - Trailer condition, if included - Evidence of corrosion from saltwater use The good news is that these issues are manageable. The solution is not to avoid the boat. It’s to inspect it with a clear checklist and prioritize the systems that affect safety, comfort, and long-term cost. - Why the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 Still Makes Sense Even though it’s not a new model, the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 can still be a very sensible choice for the right buyer. One reason is that commuter boats are built around usability. They tend to age better in practical terms because their main strengths are not flashy gadgets but straightforward function. A well-maintained cabin cruiser often holds value better than a trend-driven boat with complicated systems that are expensive to repair. Another reason is versatility. This type of boat can work for: - Coastal family cruising - Weekend trips - Fishing with shelter from the elements - Commuting between islands or harbors - Overnight stays in modest comfort If you want a boat that can handle a broad range of conditions without feeling oversized, the Commuter 805 remains attractive. It gives you a real cabin, decent protection, and enough space for practical use without stepping into a much higher operating budget. - What to Check Before Buying a 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 If you’re considering purchase, this is where you can save yourself a lot of stress. A careful inspection is the best solution to the uncertainty problem. - Hull and Structure Start with the hull. Look for: - Scratches or deep gouges - Repairs that may indicate grounding or impact - Osmosis or blistering, if applicable - Stress marks around fittings and cleats A boat can have cosmetic wear and still be fine. But structural damage or poor repairs are red flags. If you’re unsure, a professional survey is worth it. - Engine and Drive System The engine is often the most expensive part to repair, so its condition matters a lot. Check for: - Service records - Oil changes and impeller replacement - Smooth cold starting - Unusual smoke or vibration - Corrosion on components - Gear engagement and throttle response If the boat has a stern drive or outdrive setup, inspect bellows, seals, and corrosion carefully. In many cases, this is where maintenance neglect shows up first. - Electrical System Aged wiring can create frustrating issues that are hard to trace. Test: - Navigation lights - Cabin lights - Pumps - Battery charging - Switch panels - Electronics and displays Look under panels and in storage spaces for signs of moisture, amateur wiring, or corrosion on terminals. Boats often “work fine” until one small electrical fault causes a chain of problems. - Cabin Condition Because the Askeladden Commuter 805 is a cabin boat, interior condition is more important than it might be on an open day boat. Check for: - Damp smells - Soft spots in flooring - Mold or mildew - Leaking windows or hatches - Wear in upholstery - Condensation issues Cabin moisture is one of the most common hidden headaches in used boats. It’s not just about comfort. Long-term dampness can damage insulation, wiring, and trim. - Deck Hardware and Seals Windows, doors, hatches, and fittings should all be checked for leaks and movement. Pay attention to: - Window seals - Door latches - Hatch gaskets - Rail mounts - Cleats and handholds A small leak may not seem serious, but over time it can lead to bigger repairs than expected. On a commuter boat, keeping the cabin dry is a major part of preserving value. - How to Solve the Main Ownership Challenges Once you own the boat, the challenge shifts from evaluation to upkeep. The solution is a simple, consistent maintenance routine. - Build a Seasonal Maintenance Checklist A structured checklist prevents small issues from turning into expensive ones. Before the season: - Inspect the hull and propeller - Change oils and filters - Check batteries and charging - Test bilge pumps - Clean and inspect seals - Verify all lights and electronics - Examine steering and throttle controls After the season: - Flush the engine if applicable - Clean salt and grime from fittings - Dry the cabin thoroughly - Remove perishables and moisture traps - Store batteries properly - Cover and ventilate the boat This routine is especially useful for boats like the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805, because cabin boats tend to accumulate moisture and salt residue in places that are easy to overlook. - Keep Moisture Under Control Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of a used commuter boat. To reduce it: - Ventilate the cabin regularly - Use moisture absorbers during storage - Check seals after heavy rain - Dry carpets and cushions completely - Avoid storing wet gear inside If you notice recurring dampness, don’t just mask it with air fresheners. Find the source. It may be a failed seal, blocked drain, or condensation problem. - Service the Engine on Time A well-maintained engine can make an older boat feel much newer. Skipping service intervals is one of the quickest ways to turn a good boat into an expensive one. Stay on top of: - Oil and filter changes - Fuel system inspection - Impeller replacement - Cooling system checks - Belt and hose condition - Corrosion prevention If you don’t boat often, it’s still worth running the engine regularly and following the manufacturer’s service schedule. Boats dislike long periods of inactivity almost as much as they dislike neglect. - Protect the Boat During Storage Good storage extends the life of nearly every component. Best practices include: - Use a breathable cover if possible - Keep the cabin ventilated - Disconnect or maintain batteries properly - Lift the boat or trailer correctly to avoid stress - Wash off salt before storage - Inspect for trapped water before winter A lot of owners think storage is just about covering the boat. In reality, it’s about controlling moisture, temperature swings, and corrosion. - Is the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 Right for You? This boat makes the most sense if you want a practical, enclosed, versatile cruiser rather than a pure speed machine or luxury platform. It’s a strong fit for people who value comfort, shelter, and predictable handling. It may be a good match if you: - Boat in changeable weather - Want a cabin for family use - Need a versatile coastal cruiser - Prefer function over flashy features - Like a manageable size with real capability It may be less ideal if you want: - A very large open cockpit - High-end luxury finishes - Minimal maintenance responsibility - A boat focused only on summer fair-weather use The real advantage of the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 is that it fills a practical role very well. If that role matches your boating style, it can be a smart and satisfying choice. - Tips for Getting the Best Value from an Older Commuter Boat If you’re shopping for one or already own one, the best way to protect your investment is to think in terms of systems, not just appearance. Here’s what matters most: 1. Keep records Save every service receipt and maintenance note. Good records help with resale and help you track patterns. 2. Fix small issues early A leaking seal, noisy bearing, or weak battery is much cheaper to address now than later. 3. Prioritize safety gear Make sure pumps, lights, fire extinguishers, and navigation equipment are all current and functional. 4. Don’t ignore cosmetics entirely Clean upholstery, polished gelcoat, and tidy fittings help preserve value and make the boat more enjoyable. 5. Get a survey before purchase This is especially important if the boat has limited documentation or has been used in saltwater. A boat like this rewards owners who stay organized. It’s not about being obsessive. It’s about being consistent. - Common Questions Buyers Ask About the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 - How old is too old for this model? Age alone isn’t the issue. Condition, service history, and storage matter much more than the number on the calendar. - Is it suitable for family use? Yes, especially if you want a sheltered cabin and practical layout for day trips or short cruises. - What should I worry about most? Moisture, engine history, and signs of poor maintenance are usually the biggest concerns on a used boat of this type. - Can it still be a good buy in today’s market? Yes, if the boat has been cared for properly and the price reflects its age, condition, and equipment. These questions usually come down to the same answer: inspect carefully, maintain consistently, and buy based on condition rather than assumptions. - Final Thoughts on the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 The 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805 remains appealing because it offers something many boaters still want: a practical, weather-friendly cabin boat with real everyday usefulness. The main challenge for buyers and owners is not the model itself, but understanding its condition and keeping it properly maintained. If you approach it with a good inspection checklist, pay attention to moisture, service the engine on schedule, and store it correctly, you can get a lot of value from this boat. That’s the real solution: not chasing perfection, but managing the important details well. For anyone interested in the 2014 Askeladden Commuter 805, that mindset makes all the difference.