Buy a Used Sailing or Motor Boat

12/02/2024

If you have decided to become the owner of a used boat without breaking the bank, drop anchor on our platform to discover offers that will captivate you.

Buying a used boat offers many advantages, including often a lower acquisition cost and a greater variety of models available.

Acquiring a used boat whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice is an exciting adventure but requires a methodical approach!

The market is full of incredible options: from classic monohulls to modern multihulls including sailboats, the range of choices is wide.

Whether you are attracted by the elegance of a sailboat, the power of a motor boat, or the versatility of a multihull, this project can quickly become a waking dream... or a real headache if poorly thought out. So, how to avoid pitfalls and find the perfect craft for your desires in an informed way?

Bateauavendre.fr guides you step by step in your project, from defining your needs to finalizing the transaction.

You will find practical advice on the technical evaluation of a vessel, the essential parameters to consider, the financial aspects to maximize your chances of making the right choice and fully enjoy your new purchase.

You can also browse our many used boat listings, ready to sail in sea or lake, suitable for all budgets and all nautical projects.

The moment you start browsing listings is often filled with mixed emotions, excitement and worry.

The excitement about so many available options is mixed with a certain fear: "What if I make the wrong choice?" Be patient, because here your nautical journey truly begins.

When you dive into used boat listings, it is important to carefully define your goals

1. What is the main purpose of your purchase? Pleasure, leisure, fishing, or family cruises over several days
2. What overall budget will you allocate, including purchase, maintenance, port fees, and insurance?
3. Are you planning to entrust your boat to a professional in boating for management/rental or to a rental company?
4. What engine power is necessary: will a low-power outboard engine suffice or do you need an engine of several hundred horsepower (hp type)?

Determine what type of used boat suits you to fully enjoy your outings on the water and allow you to discover the pleasures of navigation at an affordable price without compromising on quality:

For purists seeking authenticity, the sailboat, powered by the wind, is the ideal choice. Its navigation, paced by the elements thanks to its rigging and sails, requires particular know-how. The motor vessel, faster, practical, maneuverable, and less demanding, is perfect for those who want to enjoy their time at sea without worrying about adjustments.

A boat may look perfect in photos, but what about in reality? Arrange visits and ideally sea trials to evaluate its behavior and comfort.

Carefully inspect the general condition of the hull, deck, and cabins. A test outing is also a good opportunity to check the operation of the engine and electrical system.

And if the propulsion system in place does not suit you, you can plan to replace it with a more recent or more powerful one.

With so many models on the market, refine your search with specific criteria: length, year of manufacture, price...

Inspecting the hull is crucial: look for cracks or signs of osmosis (a common problem on certain materials). The engine should start easily and run smoothly without abnormal smoke. Finally, don’t forget to check the electrical systems (batteries) as well as hydraulic equipment such as pumps.

Each unit must be equipped according to its navigation area (fire extinguishers, life jackets...). Sailboats' rigging also deserves particular attention: wear on ropes, condition of the mast...

Calling on a marine surveyor can reassure you!

This professional has in-depth expertise in the maritime field and possesses detailed technical knowledge on vessels, their systems, construction, navigation, and applicable regulations.

Using their services helps identify hidden structural weaknesses invisible to an untrained eye and provides a complete diagnosis before any purchase such as evaluation of the hull, engine, electronic equipment, and onboard systems.

Once your choice is made, comes the crucial moment of the official transfer.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents (registration certificate or francization deed, sales contract signed by all parties...) to carry out procedures that update official records and register the boat in your name with the departmental directorate of territories and the sea (DDTM).

Depending on how you use your used boat, coastal navigation, offshore, pleasure, competition, professional… comparing different insurance offers often allows you to significantly reduce your annual costs.

If you choose financing via a marine loan or an LOA buyback (leasing with option), carefully analyze the contractual terms proposed by credit institutions, based on your personal situation and needs, knowing that LOA remains an interesting financing solution for acquiring a boat,

Maintenance is essential to preserve the value of your investment and guarantee many years of safe navigation, especially if you wish to sell later. Plan an annual full check including antifouling paint under the hull, engine inspection, cleaning...

During the winter period when the boat and equipment remain in port or on a land trailer, protect them against moisture and bad weather with suitable breathable covers.

You can entrust your boat’s winter storage to a professional who ensures complete and secure care of your craft during inactivity.

Have the engine, electrical systems, and equipment serviced annually.

Regularly apply antifouling to protect the hull from marine organisms.

Frequently clean the boat, inside and out, to prevent mold and corrosion.