Californian 42 DC with Cat 3208 TA

It would help to know more about the Californian. I am not too familiar with earlier models. Is this the dual cabin trawler from the late 1970s or the 1980s aft cabin cruiser?

Regardless it all comes down to history of use and maintenance and seatrial/survey.

It also comes down to can you see you using this boat for your intended boating plans.

Years ago I looked at the Hatt 43DC and ended up buying a 1987 44 Viking DC instead.

If you don't mind my interruption; Go back to the Detroit engines or find a re-power with later engines.
I know there are people out there that love the 3208. I do not mean to get into a urine broadcasting contest with them, but after 340 HP you have a 1000 pound, near non rebuildable bomb.
Flat tappets, small crank bearings and non serviceable liners.
Originally at 150 HP, they are still running since their introduction around 1975.
The 3208T (not TA) may do 3000 hours. I think the 260HP lived longer.
Over 40 HP per lung and they have varied lives.
Like my comments on the Detroits, keep your foot out of them and going slow is great. 4 stroke diesels seem to do a little better at slow speed than the 2-strokes.
But there are times you are going to open them up, Some times you have to.
And if your purchase did not include near new or fresh Cat engines, I would be nervous pushing that throttle.
Yes, that 375 HP is the start of the danger zone.

Further, look over the installation, The low mounted water pumps, alternator and just the belts can be a PIA in a cramp environment.
Try to find the battery cable to the starter, if you can see the starter. I remember a Viking SF; all you could reach was the air filter (on top).

Next;
Californian boats were O K (Before and during Carver). Other than maybe better looks, I would take a Bayliner Motor Yacht over a Californian.
Further, Californian boats are Not near the league of Hatteras or Vikings (or real old Bertrams).

Also, As I mentioned before, survey very well any thing you consider. Weigh heavy the lack of any records including oil labs.
One oil test at survey may be helpful, A history of lab reports would be kept by a better boat owner.

BTW
We used to manage a Californian with Covington 671TIBs.
From Jax, made it to the Bahamas once and then just the Fl Keys a few times after.
He was happy.
The Detroits were solid.
The arch, the windows, the back deck were not.
All was great under a covered slip.