Purchasing a boat, like purchasing a car, is a significant financial investment. You want to be sure you understand what you require, where to purchase it, and how to get the greatest price. When it comes to buying a boat for water sports, there is a lot to learn, which is where our boat buying guide, which covers everything from pricing to warranty difficulties, can help. However, there are certain additional concerns when purchasing a used boat. This is your checklist when buying a used boat.
Would you buy a car without first taking it for a test drive? The same is true for a boat, perhaps much more so than for a car. Boats are fickle creatures. They usually necessitate more attention and upkeep than automobiles. When you test drive the boat, keep the following in mind while you’re at the water sports. It’s a good idea to have a group of folks along for the test drive. A water sports boat’s performance and speed can be affected by additional weight.
Boat’s Performance
Vibration – It could signify a lot of things if it vibrates, such as a bent propeller. A boat that vibrates is a noisy boat.
Functioning Trim – If you’re looking at an inboard or outboard boat, ensure the trim works, as this permits the motor to shift from the down position to the angled position.
Response – Test the steering from one direction to another quickly but carefully to see how long it takes the boat to respond.
Planning – Plan ahead of time to see how long the boat takes to plane after takeoff.
Shifting – Does the boat shift smoothly or burst into gear?
Determine The Number Of Hours Spent On The Boat.
The use of an automobile is measured in miles, while the use of a boat is measured in hours. You can anticipate to pay some money for modifications and upkeep if a boat has more than 500 hours on it.
Examine The Floor For Rot.
Water and wood don’t mix, especially on a boat’s floor. Examine the floor for spongy patches that could indicate decay. Do not be scared to get down on your knees and smell the faeces.
Inquire About The Boat’s Maintenance History.
Find out what major repairs the yacht has undergone. If the boat has had a lot of work done to it, there will very certainly be more to come, which translates into bucks. Check to see if the boat is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Also, find out who the boat owner used for repairs and speak with them.
Employ The Services Of A Marine Surveyor Check It Out.
Before acquiring a boat, it’s a good idea to have it carefully inspected by a skilled marine technician. Call the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors – SAMS if you need a marine surveyor. Check the spark arrestors and plugs, alternator, belts, hoses, strainer, blower, shift cables, and engine alignment if you’re doing it yourself. Examine the oil to ensure that it isn’t hazy or grainy. Cloudy oil could indicate a broken engine block.
Examine The Condition Of The Hull
Take a tour around the boat, inspecting the hull for damage and making sure it’s in good working order. Tap on the hull all the way around to ensure it is consistently solid. A boat with mismatched paint is likely to have been in an accident. Examine the gel coat for blisters and dry rot.
Look For Warping, Cracks, Or Nicks In The Propeller.
Look for warping, cracks, or nicks in the prop. Any of these factors can affect the boat’s performance.
Discover How The Boat Was Stored.
How was the boat stored when it wasn’t in use? Was it stored outside and exposed to the sun and weather? Or was it maintained in a dry, safe place?
How’s The Upholstered Furniture Holding Up?
The way the boat was housed has an impact on how well the upholstery has held up over time. Look for damaged seams and fading colours. Also, if there is one, inspect the boat cover.
What Are The Add-ons?
It would be ideal if the owner would sell the boat with a few additions that are most likely already present. A depth finder, in our opinion, is essential. You don’t want the boat to go aground, and you certainly don’t want your skier to go aground. A marine radio is required by law in most states. It’s wonderful to have a stereo so you can listen to music. Check to see whether the boat owner will include any life jackets and an anchor. They might even throw in a speed control gadget if you’re a lucky slalom skier.
