going to look at a used boat, first time

[sheriffred09]

Hey there all, my wife and I are going to look at our first used boat tomorrow. It's a 30' Carver Santego 30, for $19,000 at a marina. Supposed to be in top rate condition. Now I've had small boats in th past but nothing this big. My wife and I are thinking of this for over nighting and just pleasure crusing. Kind of a second home if you will, weekender get away.

What's some tips to ask and look for??...To me engine and electronics are most important, then the amenitys....ideas....

Thanks much!!,
RED

 

[Aviator5]

Re: going to look at a used boat, first time

Marine surveyor is a must!

 

[dvan1901]

Re: going to look at a used boat, first time

Get a marine survey. I would also recommend finding one on your own and not ask the marina. Not that they would, but they might have a "buddy" that would pass the boat or overlook certain things.

 

[sheriffred09]

Re: going to look at a used boat, first time

Oh yeah they already said they do there own person that does the survey....Which I agree with you on get my own done....good tip...seams like the guy also wants us to rush into this....but I'm not....nice guy but taking my time plus I know winter is the better time to get a good deal....

Thanks,red

 

[Aviator5]

Re: going to look at a used boat, first time

Also a marine mechanic to check the motors, drives, ets.

 

[dontask]

Re: going to look at a used boat, first time

Marine surveyor is a must!

Amen! And not one from the marina were the boat is being sold from. Not a surveyor recommended by the marina. The surveyor will save you money in the long run. Make sure the surveyor is certified on the engine package you have in question. I have seen survey reports from a supposed surveyor that covered some ridiculous items like petty cosmetics but did not have compression numbers.
If the place selling the boat is so sure of the condition then make the survey part of the deal. If its" top rate condition" as they say then it should need nothing and the surveyor will find nothing and you eat the surveyors bill. If the surveyor finds items (say totaling over $500) that contradicts this "top rate condition" then the seller is stuck with the surveyor's bill. I bet the seller will do everything in the world to avoid a contract written like this because it protects the buyer from seller B.S. Good luck