10 Things You MUST Know Before Buying a Boat

1. Purpose of the Boat: Will you use the boat for fishing, family trips, water sports, or longer voyages? Your intended use determines the type of boat you need. Are you planning coastal weekend trips, or do you envision longer journeys with a larger crew and overnight stays?
2. Budget: Remember to include maintenance, insurance, dock fees, and fuel costs in your budget. A general rule of thumb is to allocate about 10% of the boat's value annually for upkeep and operation.
3. Debt, VAT, and Legal Matters: Check if VAT has been paid on the boat (in the EU), and make sure you obtain documentation of VAT payment, especially for second-hand purchases. If VAT hasn’t been properly paid or documented, you could face significant back charges or registration issues. This is especially critical for cross-border purchases within the EU. Ensure the boat is free of debt in an official ship registry and that it hasn’t been reported stolen.
4. Focus on Hidden Structural Issues: As a first-time buyer, it’s easy to be dazzled by shiny paint and a polished deck, but the most expensive issues often hide beneath the surface. Inspect the keel, hull, chainplates, and sail drives for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. These areas can be complex and costly to repair, so prioritize them in your inspection. Cosmetic issues like paint or upholstery are often easier and cheaper to fix.
5. The Keel: For sailboats, check if the boat has run aground. Pay particular attention to structural damage or cracks in the fiberglass near the keel and at the seam between the keel and hull. Examine the keel bolts for rust or leaks.
6. The Hull: Look for signs of osmosis, cracks, and irregularities, as these can be expensive to fix.
7. The Engine: For motorboats, check for oil leaks, unusual noises (see below for examples), and the engine’s maintenance history.
8. Electronics: Navigation equipment, batteries, and other electrical systems should be in good condition. It’s a positive sign if wires are properly labeled and organized rather than a tangled mess that could take weeks to troubleshoot.
9. Sea Trial: Test the boat under real conditions to ensure it meets your expectations. It’s also wise to inspect the boat after heavy rain to check for leaks.
10. Professional Assistance: Bring an expert to the inspection to help identify hidden problems. 

 Why is a Thorough Inspection Important? 

Critical Areas: Expensive and Extensive Repairs

1. The Keel and Keel Bolts (Sailboats)

• Signs of Problems: Damage from grounding, rusty or leaking bolts. Note that minor cracks in the seam between the keel and hull are not always structural issues. These two components respond differently to environmental conditions. However, stay vigilant and consult one or two experts if in doubt.
• Why is it Important? The keel is the boat’s foundation. Damage here can compromise the boat’s stability and safety.
• Repairs: Extensive repairs or keel bolt replacements can cost thousands of euros. The boat may need to be hauled out, and the keel removed and reinstalled.

  

2. The Hull

•  Signs of Problems: Cracks, blisters (osmosis), or uneven surfaces in the fiberglass.
• Why is it Important? The hull’s integrity ensures the boat’s buoyancy and durability.
• Repairs: Osmosis treatment and hull repairs can become very costly. 

3. Rigging and Chainplates (Sailboats)

• Signs of Problems: Corrosion on shrouds or chainplates, cracks in the mast base.
• Why is it Important? The rigging keeps the mast in place, and weaknesses here can lead to catastrophic failures. 
• Repairs: Replacing chainplates, for example, can be a time-consuming and therefore costly task, as they are often embedded in the hull. 

4. Engine and transmission

•  Signs of Problems: Oil leaks, sluggish startup, and unusual noises. Unusual noises can include:
  • Knocking sounds: Often indicate worn pistons or bearings.
  • Squealing noises: Caused by worn or loose belts.
  • Metallic clicks: Could signal issues with valves or the crankshaft.
  • Rumbling or growling noises: May originate from the gearbox or propeller.
  • Hissing noises: Could result from cooling system problems, such as leaking hoses or trapped air.
• Why is it Important? A faulty engine can leave you stranded and is expensive to repair.
• Repair: A new inboard engine can cost anywhere from 7.000 to over 15.000 Euro.
• Read our article: "10 Common Engine Problems with an Inboard Diesel Engine" for more insights.  

5. Electronics and Electrical Systems

•  Signs of Problems: Faulty navigation systems, poor battery capacity, heat generation from electrical devices or the wiring network itself.
• Why is it Important? Electronics are vital for onboard safety and comfort, ensuring reliable navigation and essential functionality.
• Repair: Repairs or replacements can quickly range from 1.500 to 7.000 Euro. 

Less Critical Areas: Easier and Cheaper Repairs

1. Hull Fittings

• Signs of Problems: Leaking valves or fittings, rusty or corroded hull fittings.
  Repair: Replacement is relatively straightforward and doesn't require much time for a professional. Consider upgrading to composite fittings instead of the older bronze ones for improved durability and corrosion resistance. 

2.  Upholstery and Interior

• Signs of Problems: Worn-out mattresses or damaged flooring.
• Repair: Replacement is relatively simple and affordable. However, check if the damage is due to water intrusion. Leaks are critical issues that must be repaired promptly to prevent further damage. 

3.  Batteries

• Signs of Problems: The batteries quickly become flat when used. The batteries lose voltage over time, despite no consumption..
• Repair: Purchase new batteries. They are quick and easy to replace. 

4.  Scratches and Cracks in Gelcoat

•  Signs of Problems: Small damages or “spider cracks” in the gelcoat.
• Repair: Often primarily cosmetic and can be easily repaired on your own. However, if you want a seamless finish that matches the existing gelcoat color, consider hiring a professional.
  Important Note: Check if the crack extends into the fiberglass. If water has penetrated and been absorbed over a long period, the damage could be more expensive and complex to repair.
  

  

 Professional Assistance: Find Boating Experts on SailZoo

• Find Professionals: Boat mechanics, marine electricians, riggers, and boat surveyors, categorized by expertise and location.
• Read Reviews: Check ratings and feedback from other boat owners to find the best experts.
• Book Directly: Simple and quick booking to save time and effort.