Tips For Buying A Good Used Boat

Buying a used boat is an affordable means of pursuing boating as a leisure interest. The majority of first time buyers, more than 60 percent in fact, purchase used boats rather than new ones. You may be new to boating and unsure of whether you will take up it up as a long term interest but equally you may well be a previous boat owner and enthusiast who wants to save money on a boat purchase. Whatever the circumstance buying a boat is a big commitment and you can find some exceptional value in used boats.

A used boat can offer the same qualities you would look for in a new boat such as an affordable, sea worthy, well maintained and well built craft. You can enjoy using your boat for a range of purposes from sailing the ocean blue, to a spot of fishing in a sheltered cove to relaxing onboard for your retirement. However to make sure you can fully enjoy and look forward to years of pleasure derived from your used boat, it pays to buy smart. If you are buying for the first time you may have relative knowledge of boats so it can often be difficult to know where to start. The main aim is to ensure that you get a good buy for your money. This article covers some of the issues you will need to consider if you have made the decision to buy a used boat and may help give you a better understanding of the boat buying process.

Your first port of call should be a licensed boat and yacht broker. Yacht brokers are recommended because of their experience and access to national and international networks of boat owners and brokers that will have boats to sell. It is strongly advisable you purchase through them as they will not only assist you with choosing the right boat, they will also help you with insurance and financing options which you should be thinking about at this stage.

One of the most important considerations is how you are going to use your boat. There are many boats on the market with different specifications so you need to choose a craft that will be compatible with your needs. Think about how you will use it and how many people you will be transporting on it. Ask yourself questions-Do you want to Fish? Cruise? Is it for use on inland waterways or coastal waters? If you would like to purchase a larger boat, it is to use for entertaining or diving? Can you berth it in the marina? What is your price range? Are you an experienced boater or a novice? These are all questions that will invoke answers to help guide you in your purchase.

Once you have found a boat that meets your requirements and that you want to buy, if you haven’t already contact a boat and yacht broker. You can take a preliminary look at the mechanics and overall condition of the boat yourself, or you may want to take someone else along that has experience of boats. However you still will need to arrange a comprehensive survey of the boat by a qualified boat surveyor before you purchase. The survey will highlight any issues, and in most cases insurance companies won’t cover you without one.

It should be fairly easy to tell if the boat has been looked after from its immediate appearance. Pay attention to metal and wooden surfaces for any sign of corrosion and check the riggings are in strong condition. Bulk heads should be safe and secure with a laminate. When inspecting the engine make sure the engine is clean and rust free. Check the bilge pump, batteries and oil are as they should be.

If you decide you still want to buy you will need to make certain you can afford the boat and any additional costs. Money should be set aside for mooring, insurance and boat maintenance work. The next step is to pay a deposit, usually at 10% of the boats asking price. After the used boat has undergone a survey and a sea trial, which gives you the opportunity to take the vessel out for a spin, the final balance can be paid and you can take ownership of your used boat.

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