“A boat is freedom, not just a means to an end”, declaimed Bernard Moitessier in his novel Tamata et l’alliance. To fully experience this wonderful feeling of freedom, you need to choose your second-hand boat wisely to avoid seeing your sweet dream end up at the bottom of the sea.
Before finalising the sale, there are a number of essential checks to be carried out to ensure that the boat you’re after is free from damage.
The maintenance booklet: an essential step
Like any vehicle, a boat must undergo regular checks and servicing to ensure that it is being used properly and is in satisfactory condition. This information is contained in the maintenance booklet that the seller should be able to provide. If not, ask for access to the invoices for the various operations and/or repairs carried out on the boat. These documents make it easier to trace the boat’s upkeep and maintenance operations.
For your own safety, that of your boat and your peace of mind, make sure that any work carried out is carried out by a competent professional who is experienced in sailing.
Take the time to observe and test the engine
You imagine yourself as the captain of your superb yacht. You’re sailing on a sea of oil when suddenly one of your engines refuses to respond. The Coast Guard will end up towing you back to port. What’s more, the engine damage repairs will cost you a hefty sum. Unfortunately, this unenviable scenario is not unthinkable. During the visit with the buyer, take the time to inspect the engine in every nook and cranny.
The number of engine hours is a reliable indicator of the boat’s use. Above 300 engine hours, it’s likely that costly servicing will be required. As this is a fairly technical item, it’s advisable to be accompanied by a qualified technician. He will inspect not only the engine, but also the oil and coolant levels, as well as the auxiliary parts: starter, propeller, etc.
If the yacht is under sail, take a close look at the condition of the sails, the ropes and the entire rigging system.
Condition of the hull
By looking at the condition of a boat’s hull, you can see just how much care the owner has taken. Because of the sea salt, and even with the right materials and paints, the hull needs to be cleaned regularly. This delays natural wear and tear, removes algae and shellfish and allows you to check the hull for damage. Detect traces of rust. They are enemy number 1 of your future pre-owned boat.
The state of the on-board equipment and the deck
After inspecting the outside of the boat, let’s climb aboard. On-board equipment such as the generator and watermaker must be free of leaks and rust. The electronics must be in working order. As far as deck and cabin components are concerned, the upholstery and woodwork must have been maintained with suitable products and be in good condition. Deck portholes and hatches must be perfectly airtight. Finally, the bathrooms and interior furniture must be in good condition, with no obvious signs of mould or damp.
Ask for a sea trial
Would you buy a car without taking it for a test drive? Chances are you wouldn’t! A second-hand boat, even if it meets all the conditions you’re looking for, might not be right for you once you’re at sea.
By taking the boat out for a test drive, you can get a feel for how the boat handles, and check that all the essential navigation equipment is working perfectly. Listening to the engine noises can also be a good indicator of its general condition.
Take advantage of this test to rev up the engine. That way, it will be easier to detect a mechanical fault or leak than when the boat is dry.
Call in a professional to buy your second-hand boat
If you are a young sailor and not yet an expert in buying second-hand boats, it is advisable to be accompanied by a professional. This meticulous technician will check the various components of the boat, point by point, to ensure that it is in good working order and in good general condition. The sales broker will also help you with the administrative formalities. He or she will check the authenticity of the maintenance booklet and invoices supplied by the seller, draw up a preliminary sales agreement and handle the financial transaction in accordance with legal and financial regulations.
When you use a yacht sales broker, you can be sure that your pre-owned boat will be delivered under the best possible conditions.
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