When you are buying a used or brokege yacht or motor boat here in the UK you may find that it can be rather hard work to spend you hard earned cash on you dream boat. 

Buying any boat is a big decision and is probably the second biggest personal outlay you will ever make. It’s a major decision, and bluntly, when buying a used boat YOU’RE ON YOUR OWN.

Remember: “Buyer Beware”.

“Caveat Emptor”. The axiom or principle in commerce that the buyer alone is responsible for assessing the quality of a purchase before buying. When buying a used boat there are no warranties or guarantees. How do you know…

• That the boat is even what the advert states?
• That the boat is fit for the purpose?
• That the boat is undamaged?
• That the boat is safe, sound or seaworthy?
• That the engines are serviceable?
• That the rig is safe?
• That the boat will provide good service without huge repair costs?
• That your investment is justified; are you paying too much, or too little?

If there are problems your only recourse is pursuit of the vendor through the courts; which can be a long and costly procedure with unknown results.

Almost everyone you will deal with in choosing and selecting your boat will be working for the vendor. Brokers, advertisers, agents, agencies, the helpfull guy on the marina – are all paid buy the vendor.

If you use a broker make sure they are professional, use a recognized form of contract (for example RYA/BMIF/ABYA if in the UK) and that your deposit is secure and returnable. In the United Kingdom, look for membership of the ABYA (the Professional Association of Yacht Brokers) and or the BMIF Boat Retailers/Brokers Scheme, which ensures a high ethical standard and established code of practice, correct paperwork and indemnity insurance.

For full information please visit http://www.boatcareyachtsurveys.co.uk/buyer-beware-boat-professional-surveyor.htm

or call Boatcare Yacht Surveys on 02380 454498 or email us and we will be happy to help.