Boat Buyers Guide

When choosing a new boat, start by thinking carefully about how you plan to live and spend time onboard. Decide how many cabins you’ll need, what galley facilities are important, the type of toilet and shower setup you want, how much fuel and water storage is required, and how much outdoor or cockpit space will suit your lifestyle.

Next, consider where the boat will be berthed and the waters you intend to navigate. If you’ll be using inland waterways, make sure the vessel’s air draught allows it to pass under bridges and through locks, and check that its draught is suitable for the water depths in those areas.

Running and servicing costs can vary significantly depending on the vessel’s hull design, the type and make of the engine, and whether the boat is fitted with single or multiple engines and generators. Older engines and gearboxes may also present challenges, as parts can become scarce or discontinued. A quick call to the appropriate service dealer is the best way to confirm current parts availability and avoid unexpected delays or expenses.

Servicing modern engines and outdrives/transoms can be costly, often running into several thousand pounds. For this reason, it’s essential to obtain a detailed service quote from a qualified marine engineer before committing to a purchase. This will give you a realistic understanding of ongoing maintenance costs.

Your berthing location will also influence servicing requirements. Boats kept in high‑salinity or high‑fouling environments may require more frequent maintenance, such as six‑monthly anode replacement and antifouling. At the opposite end of the spectrum, vessels kept on freshwater lakes and removed from the water after each use experience far less wear—though this is rarely practical for larger boats.

A reputable brokerage company should have a reasonable understanding of the condition of any vessel they are advertising. While they are not surveyors, they should be able to provide basic, accurate information about the boat’s overall state and history.

Once the final balance for your new vessel has been transferred, responsibility typically passes to you as the buyer. Unless the broker or seller has misrepresented the vessel during the sales process, there is usually little recourse if a fault becomes apparent after completion. It’s important to remember that the broker is acting on behalf of the seller, not the buyer, which is why commissioning a thorough pre‑purchase marine survey is essential for your own protection.

Some reputable brokers may offer limited assistance after the sale as a goodwill gesture, but this should never be relied upon as part of the transaction.

Purchasing a second‑hand, or even a brand‑new vessel can be more complex than it first appears. Regardless of whether you are buying privately or through a reputable broker, it is essential to gain a full and accurate understanding of the boat you intend to purchase.

A qualified marine surveyor plays a crucial role in this process. Beyond assessing the vessel’s structural integrity and overall condition, a good surveyor will help you identify potential issues that may not be immediately visible. They can also provide guidance throughout the buying journey, helping you interpret their findings, understand any risks, and make informed decisions before committing to the purchase.