Viewing The Boat – Essential Checks

When should you make an offer to buy a boat, and when should you walk away? Rupert Holmes has the answers

By the time you start viewing a shortlist of boats, you should already have a clear idea of how you plan to use your new vessel. You’ll have assessed its essential attributes and those aspects you’re happy to compromise on. In addition, you’ll have a realistic budget – one that allows for upfront expenses such as insurance, survey costs, the first year’s mooring fees and any essential upgrades.

Last month we talked about the importance of the boat’s condition and equipment on board, and how considering a wider choice of craft (not an exact model) will give you more options in your planned search area. This month, I’ll talk you through what happens when you go to view your shortlist.

Is winter a good time?

It may seem odd to look for boats during the winter, but I’ve bought as many during the dark days of December and January as sparkling summer months – and there are compelling reasons for doing so.

A key reason is it often takes time to set up a new boat with the equipment you want and confirm there are no unexpected problems. Given that marine tradespeople tend to be flat out from March to midsummer, buying a boat early can give a chance to beat the queues and avoid missing much of the first season of cruising.

Another benefit is that vendors may be more pliable on price, especially if it means they have more chance of getting their own next boat before the following season, or avoid having to sign up for a further 12 months of mooring fees. In any case, for most of us buying a boat is a long-term decision and therefore not one that is switched on and off depending on the season.