5 Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Boat

How to Avoid Buying a Floating Lemon

Owning a boat is a more achievable dream than many think, especially for those who don’t mind buying a used boat. Learn five questions to ask before buying a used boat for the first time.

Most buyers who purchase used boats are looking to save money. While it’s true that pre-owned vessels more or less always come with lower price tags, the wrong boat can leave buyers facing high repair costs and other expensive problems down the road.

Don’t leave boat-buying to chance. Read on to find five essential questions to ask a used boat seller before finalizing the purchase.

1. When Was the Last Time You Used the Boat?

Boats that have been used recently are better buys than those that have been in storage for years. The owners are more likely to know about any problems their vessels have been experiencing, and in-use boats are more likely to be well-maintained.

If the boat has been out of the water, find out where it’s been stored. If it has been stored outdoors for years, that’s an even worse sign. Sunlight can degrade a boat’s wood, vinyl, and gel coat and even create hull cracks over time.

2. How Many Hours Are on the Motor?

Unless they’re buying sailboats or tiny watercraft like canoes or rowboats, buyers will need to check into the vessel’s engine. Diesel boat motors can usually go 6,000 to 8,000 hours between rebuilds. Gas motors don’t usually last more than 2,000 hours.

Potential buyers shouldn’t just watch for issues with high-mileage motors. Exceptionally low mileage on an older boat can also be a bad sign. It might not run well. Even if it did, it may not have gotten regular maintenance if used rarely.

3. What Problems Does the Boat Have?

Most boat owners are honest, welcoming people. If potential buyers ask what’s wrong with the boat, they can usually expect an honest answer. That said, there’s no replacement for a visual inspection.

If there are minor issues like one tiny spiderweb crack in a fiberglass hull or some minor mildew spots inside the boat, that’s usually nothing to worry about. Look for cracks over two inches long and damage to the boat’s mechanical components, including the belts.

4. Why Are You Selling?

Not everyone feels comfortable asking this question. For those that can, the answer can offer a little leverage for negotiations.

If the seller needs to make a sale soon because of a move or the need to liquidate assets, they may be willing to accept a lower price. If a seller is getting rid of a beloved vessel because there’s not enough time for boating, they may be less likely to accept a lowball offer.

5. Is There a Warranty?

The ideal used boat has a year or two left on a transferable warranty. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the actual situation. More often than not, used boats have outrun their warranties, and not all manufacturers allow them to be transferred even when that’s not the case.

It’s still worth asking about transferring coverage. Buyers who can find a boat with a few years on its warranty will get much more peace of mind. Those who can’t should pay extra attention to the seller’s answers to the questions above.