Seeing a boat on the water, in a marina, or at a boat show can be an exciting moment that sparks an interest in boating. It's the first step on a journey towards becoming a boater. But before you can sail off into the sunset, there are some tasks you need to complete to make sure you're making the right decision and that you're prepared for the purchase.
With BoastersOS, you can make the most of your boat purchasing experience by adding these tasks to your to-do list when you spot a boat you love.
Research the boat:
Gather information about the boat's make, model, year, size, features, and history. You can search online for reviews, specifications, and forums related to the boat. You can also talk to other boaters or professionals who know about the boat.
Searching online databases and forums for boat specifications, reviews, and related discussions [1]
Using boat history report services to obtain information about the boat's past, such as accidents or previous ownership [2][3]
Contacting the boat manufacturer or dealer to obtain records of the sale and other details [1]
Checking the boat's HIN (Hull Identification Number) to verify its authenticity and obtain additional information [2][6]
Asking other boaters or professionals who have experience with the same or similar boat model for advice and recommendations [1][5]
Check the condition:
Inspect the boat for any visible signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Look at the exterior, interior, engines, and equipment. Check for leaks, cracks, rust, or missing parts. Take note of any repairs or upgrades that were made to the boat.
To ensure that a boat is in good condition, it is important to conduct a thorough inspection for any visible signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. According to [1], some important things to check include the spark plugs, fuel lines, oil levels, and belts. In addition, [2] recommends checking the batteries, switches, breakers, fuse panels, and bus bars for corrosion. Other items to inspect include the engine and operating temperature, steering, transom mount (if using an outboard), and fuel lines, as well as doing an oil change, checking spark plugs, and fluid levels [3].
To conduct a thorough inspection, it is important to look at the boat's exterior, interior, engines, and equipment. This includes checking for any leaks, cracks, rust, or missing parts, as well as taking note of any repairs or upgrades that were made to the boat.
According to [5], exhaust manifolds and risers should be inspected annually, after three to five years in saltwater, and biannually in freshwater. In addition, [6] recommends checking the condition of the rudder or outboard bearings, as well as inspecting all through-hull fittings and valves, making sure that the fittings are secure, the valves operate, and the hoses and clamps are in good condition.
Overall, conducting a thorough inspection of a boat is crucial to ensure that it is in good condition and safe to operate. By inspecting the boat's exterior, interior, engines, and equipment, boaters can identify any issues that need to be addressed before taking the boat out on the water.
Assess the price:
Determine the market value of the boat based on its condition, age, location, and demand. You can compare the asking price of the boat to similar boats in the area or in the market. You can also negotiate with the seller or the broker to get a fair price.
To assess the price of a boat, there are several factors to consider. According to a post on BoatUS, it's important to determine the market value of the boat based on its condition, age, location, and demand. Less popular and custom boats will likely require a qualified marine surveyor to appraise them [1].
There are several resources available online that can help you determine the market value of a boat. One of the most popular is BOATVALUE, which is powered by data provided by J.D. Power [2]. Another way to determine market value is to use a price-checker tool or search for local listings of a similar make and model. Keep in mind that factors such as condition, age, and demand can greatly impact market value [4].
It's also important to compare the asking price of the boat to similar boats in the area or in the market, and negotiate with the seller or broker to get a fair price. Don't assume the asking price is the final price, as there is usually room for negotiation [1].
It's important to get an objective assessment of the boat's condition and value. To do so, you can hire a surveyor to inspect and report on the boat. A surveyor can check the structural, mechanical, and safety aspects of the boat, and provide you with a detailed report and recommendations [3].
Contact the seller:
If the boat is for sale by a private owner, you can contact the seller directly and ask for more information or arrange a viewing. If the boat is for sale by a dealer or a broker, you can contact them and ask for a sales representative to assist you. You can also ask for references or referrals from other boaters or professionals.
If you are interested in a boat for sale, there are different ways to contact the seller, depending on whether it's a private owner, dealer, or broker. For private owners, you can contact them directly through their contact information listed in the boat's advertisement. It is important to ask for more information, arrange a viewing, and negotiate the price if you decide to purchase the boat [2].
If you're interested in buying a boat from a dealer or a broker, you can contact them to ask for a sales representative to assist you. They can provide more information on the boat's features and history and help you with financing and paperwork. You can also ask for references or referrals from other boaters or professionals. It is always recommended to verify the reputation and credentials of the dealer or broker before proceeding with the purchase [1].
When buying a boat, it is important to have a contract that includes the complete names and addresses of the buyer and seller, complete description of the boat and engine, and the hull-identification number (HIN) and engine serial number. A boat bill of sale is a legal document that can be used to transfer ownership and provide warranties about the boat [3][4].
Arrange a water test:
Before you buy a boat, you may want to take it for a sea trial to test its performance, handling, and comfort. You can arrange a water test with the seller or the broker, and bring along a qualified captain or mechanic to help you evaluate the boat.
Arranging a water test or sea trial is a great way to evaluate a boat's performance and handling before buying it. To set up a sea trial, you can contact the seller or broker and request to schedule a water test [2].
It is also a good idea to bring along a qualified captain or mechanic to help evaluate the boat, especially if you are not experienced in evaluating boats [1][2].
During the sea trial, you should test the boat in various conditions, such as at different speeds and in rough waters, to see how it handles [2].
You should also check for bulkheads squeaking and screws that may have popped loose after landing on waves [1].
The cost of hiring a qualified captain or mechanic for the sea trial can vary depending on their rate and travel expenses. You may also want to consider hiring a surveyor to conduct a pre-purchase survey of the boat [3][5].
The surveyor can help you identify any potential issues with the boat and provide a detailed report on the boat's condition. The cost of a survey can range from a flat rate to an hourly rate, with a price of around $20 per foot of the boat's length [3][5].
Book a surveyor:
To get an objective assessment of the boat's condition and value, you can hire a surveyor to inspect and report on the boat. A surveyor can check the structural, mechanical, and safety aspects of the boat and provide you with a detailed report and recommendations.
If you're looking to book a surveyor to inspect a boat, there are a few things you can do. One way is to search for surveyors in your area using a nationwide database like the one offered by ABYC Inc. [1]
You can also ask for recommendations from professionals in the boating industry or look for surveyors who are affiliated with organizations like the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS), or the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS). [2]
When you've found a surveyor, be sure to ask about their experience and expertise with the type of boat you're interested in, as well as their rates and availability. It's also important to make sure the surveyor can be present for the entire survey and sea trial, and that you can be present as well to ask questions and learn about the boat's systems and findings. [3]
After the survey, you can expect to receive a detailed report from the surveyor, which will include observations, descriptions, and photos of the boat's condition, as well as recommendations for repairs and upgrades. [4]
Remember to let the surveyor know about any particular concerns or red flags you may have, as your experience and research can be helpful in the survey process. [5]
Finance the purchase:
If you need to borrow money to buy the boat, you can apply for a boat loan from a bank or a lender. You will need to provide proof of income, credit history, and other documents and agree on the terms and interest rate of the loan. You can also consider other financing options, such as leasing or refinancing.
To finance the purchase of a boat, you can apply for a boat loan from a bank or lender. The lender will assess your financial status to determine if you qualify for the loan, and if so, what the terms and interest rate of the loan will be.
Proof of income, credit history, and other documents may be required. Loan amounts, terms, and interest rates can vary widely, depending on the lender and your creditworthiness. It is important to shop around and compare loan offers from different lenders to find the best deal that fits your needs and budget. Loan calculators can help you estimate your monthly payments and determine what size or type of boat you can afford [1][3].
Some lenders may also offer leasing or refinancing options as alternative financing options [1]. It is important to check your credit score before applying for a boat loan and take steps to improve it if necessary to increase your chances of getting approved and receiving favourable loan terms [6].
Insure the boat:
To protect your investment and comply with legal requirements, you need to insure the boat against accidents, theft, or liability. You can shop around for boat insurance policies and compare the coverage, limits, and premiums. You may also need to show proof of insurance to the marina or the authorities.
To insure your boat, you can start by shopping around for policies and comparing the coverage, limits, and premiums [1]. There are several types of boat insurance policies available, such as liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage, among others. The coverage and cost of a policy may vary depending on factors such as the type and size of the boat, its intended use, your boating experience, and your location [2].
When shopping for a policy, you can consider contacting a marine insurance specialist or working with an independent agent who can provide you with multiple quotes from different insurers [3]. You may also want to ask about any discounts you may be eligible for, such as safety equipment or multiple-policy discounts [1].
To obtain coverage, you will need to provide information about your boat and boating experience, as well as agree to the terms of the policy and pay the premiums. Some insurers may also require a survey of the boat or a safety inspection before providing coverage [2].
Finally, you may need to show proof of insurance to the marina or the authorities, depending on your location and intended use of the boat. Some states or waterways may require minimum levels of liability insurance for boats, so it's important to check the local regulations before hitting the water [1].
Register the boat:
Once you buy the boat, you need to register it with the appropriate agency in your state or country. You will need to provide proof of ownership, payment of taxes and fees, and other documents. You will also need to display the registration numbers and stickers on the boat.
To register a boat in Canada, you can visit Transport Canada's website for more information and to contact the appropriate office for vessel registration and licensing inquiries [1].
If you need information on the taxes and fees associated with buying a boat in Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency offers information for applying a Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) [2].
For pleasure craft licenses in Canada, the registration process is free, but if you register the vessel through a Blue Book, there are fees associated with this process [3].
If you need to transfer the ownership of a registered vessel in Canada, you will have to pay a fee of $50 CAD and complete four forms [4].
To register a boat in the US, you will need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or Department of Natural Resources to find out the registration process and requirements for your state. You will typically need to provide proof of ownership and payment of taxes and fees, and follow state-specific guidelines for registration numbers and stickers.
It is important to note that there is no national registration process in the US, unlike in Canada, where Transport Canada oversees all boat registrations. If you are entering the US by small pleasure boats, you may also need to obtain a Canadian Border Boat Landing Permit (I-68) by contacting the Customs and Border Protection for more information [5].
Prepare for delivery:
If the boat is not in your local area or you need to transport it to a different location, you need to make arrangements for delivery. You can hire a boat transporter or tow the boat yourself if you have the proper vehicle and equipment. You may also need to obtain permits and follow safety regulations for the road and the waterways.
To prepare for boat delivery, it is important to secure everything down and identify any pre-existing damage before the boat transporter loads the boat. This will prepare you for the unlikely event that your boat is damaged in transit. If you cannot prepare the boat yourself, you can have a qualified boat yard do so. It is also advised that you have it inspected by a licensed marine surveyor [1].
If you decide to hire a boat transporter, you can shop around for the most cost-effective, fastest, and safest method. To be transported down the highway without special permits and road surveys, a boat usually has to meet certain requirements [2]. The average cost to transport a boat ranges from $600 to $1,000 for longer hauls and $150 to $350 for shorter distances [3].
If the boat is being transported to a different state, you may need to obtain permits and follow safety regulations for the road and the waterways. This fee ranges from state to state depending on what the state charges and the difficulty level required to obtain it. The fees range from $15 to $50 per state in addition to the fee charged for the actual permit [5].
Additionally, you need to remove any and all growth from the bottom of the boat and thru-hull valves to avoid breaking any laws and avoid detention time being billed to you by the boat transporter. It is also important to take close-up and distance photos of your boat from all angles to document any pre-existing damage or changes during transportation [6].
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