IDEA #1
Buying a Used Boat ..
What you should know! How to do it!
(Yes, The Arguments of Real Sailboat Captains and you will see it done)
Structural & Technical Inspections
Check Standing Rigging: Wires typically last 10–20 years; check for rust at attachment points.
Inspect the Deck for Core Rot: The deck should not feel soft or dip, which indicates delamination.
Inspect the Keel Bolts: Look for rust on keel bolts, which can indicate structural failure.
Survey the Hull: Look for blisters, cracks, and signs of previous impact damage.
Check for Water Intrusion: Inspect chainplates and portlights for water streaks and rotting bulkheads.
Test the Engine: The engine should start easily when cold; check for excessive smoke or oil leaks.
Examine the Rudder: Ensure smooth operation of the rudder and wheel/tiller.
Evaluate Sails: Older sails can be expensive to replace; check for tears, UV damage, and shape.
Financial & Logistics
9. The 30:70 Rule: The builder makes 30% of the boat, and 70% is bought from suppliers; expect high maintenance and replacement costs.
10. Budget for a Survey: Always hire a professional surveyor to uncover hidden defects.
11. Budget for Upgrades: Plan to spend roughly half your total budget on initial repairs and equipment upgrades.
12. Insurance and Tax: Factor in annual insurance costs and potential sales tax.
13. Secure a Marina Slip First: Marina space can be scarce, especially for liveaboards, with long waiting lists.
14. Depreciation: Used boats can lose 50-75% of their value in the first two decades
Usage & Design
15. Define Your Goal: Choose between day sailing, weekend coastal cruising, or long-range bluewater voyaging.
16. Start Small: Consider buying a smaller boat first to learn, gain experience, and make mistakes with lower risk.
17. Test for Roominess: Interior volume doesn't scale linearly; check for adequate headroom and cabin space.
18. Mono vs. Cat: Decide between a traditional monohull (cheaper, better upwind) or a catamaran (more space, stable).
19. Simple vs. Complex: More complex systems (generator, air conditioning) require more, costlier maintenance.
20. Test Sail: Never buy a boat without sailing it first to feel how it handles and check for leaks
IDEA #1
Buying a Used Boat ..
What you should know! How to do it!
(Yes, The Arguments of Real Sailboat Captains and you will see it done)
Structural & Technical Inspections
Check Standing Rigging: Wires typically last 10–20 years; check for rust at attachment points.
Inspect the Deck for Core Rot: The deck should not feel soft or dip, which indicates delamination.
Inspect the Keel Bolts: Look for rust on keel bolts, which can indicate structural failure.
Survey the Hull: Look for blisters, cracks, and signs of previous impact damage.
Check for Water Intrusion: Inspect chainplates and portlights for water streaks and rotting bulkheads.
Test the Engine: The engine should start easily when cold; check for excessive smoke or oil leaks.
Examine the Rudder: Ensure smooth operation of the rudder and wheel/tiller.
Evaluate Sails: Older sails can be expensive to replace; check for tears, UV damage, and shape.
Financial & Logistics
9. The 30:70 Rule: The builder makes 30% of the boat, and 70% is bought from suppliers; expect high maintenance and replacement costs.
10. Budget for a Survey: Always hire a professional surveyor to uncover hidden defects.
11. Budget for Upgrades: Plan to spend roughly half your total budget on initial repairs and equipment upgrades.
12. Insurance and Tax: Factor in annual insurance costs and potential sales tax.
13. Secure a Marina Slip First: Marina space can be scarce, especially for liveaboards, with long waiting lists.
14. Depreciation: Used boats can lose 50-75% of their value in the first two decades
Usage & Design
15. Define Your Goal: Choose between day sailing, weekend coastal cruising, or long-range bluewater voyaging.
16. Start Small: Consider buying a smaller boat first to learn, gain experience, and make mistakes with lower risk.
17. Test for Roominess: Interior volume doesn't scale linearly; check for adequate headroom and cabin space.
18. Mono vs. Cat: Decide between a traditional monohull (cheaper, better upwind) or a catamaran (more space, stable).
19. Simple vs. Complex: More complex systems (generator, air conditioning) require more, costlier maintenance.
20. Test Sail: Never buy a boat without sailing it first to feel how it handles and check for leaks