I am a boating novice- we have tentatatively purchased a chaparral 265 ssi 2004
8.1 L volvo penta GI 700 hrs from a boat dealer - it looks clean
My hubby is worried about the hours although the boat looks like it has been well maintained.
The dealer did not tell us much about the boat except they would prep it for us and take a sea trial. They seem
to be fixing the foot . Any questions we should be asking? I told then I wanted to do an independent survey-
they said it was not necessary. They offered to do one for a set amount.

Sounds like a great boat. Having an inspection is a great idea - but get an independent one - don't let the dealer do it. Would seem like a conflict of interest to me. Hopefully someday can recommend a good inspector in your area.

Get a survey. The fact they discouraged it is a little bit of a flag. Look hard at the hill, inside and out. Outside for cracks and inside for water, oil, etc. Make sure the surveyor looks through the engine and drive. Also, check the oil. Is it gold and clear or black?

It'll cost you a few dollars for the survey, but it might find some things you should be aware of.

You could take a oil sample & send it for analysis to get a little more information on the engine condition. Believe it cost $30-$40 range.

May I ask what state you're located in?

The OP might be in Canada

I agree with the other comments, get an independent survey from a certified marine surveyor. Not in the dealer's interest to give you an objective survey.

Like everybody else I always recommend a survey. But to be honest I have not had that done myself. As this is a dealer, see if they offer a warranty. Some more common trouble areas on an I/O boat are the sterndrive and fuel system (including the tank). Trailer can also be an issue, if the boat will not be in a marina.

Kelly Cook