Please note that we have only addressed the legal aspects of this issue, and announce that you also should make sure that the boat is seaworthy before you are considering buying.
Looking for a boat?
The Noble Marine both for sale database has over 3000 both for sale. Each boat has a description and pictures of the boat, so you can look around before you contact the seller.
I wonder wh
at boat to buy?
In addition to this boat and dinghy buyers guide you may wish to use our dinghy database or interactive boat finder where you can compare statistics over 300 classes and view suggestions on similar classes to the type you are interested in.
Unlike a car there is a legal registration document tracking of ownership unless you want to take your boat abroad, you are not obliged to register your yacht at all, and many people not so sure that the person selling boat actually owns the boat, and that there are no outstanding loans secured by the boat can be difficult.
Before you consider buying a boat, you should visit www.stolenboats.org.uk to see if the boat for sale, or similar, are reported stolen. If a boat is not built on the site that does not mean that it is not stolen.
If you buy privately, you will not be legally protected if the vessel has a hidden history or faults. It is up to you to ask the right questions and to satisfy you that the boat is in good condition before you buy.
Buying a used boat is essentially a case of 'buyer beware'. It is up to you to ensure the craft is in order, it is a good idea to have a qualified marine surveyor or boat builder to give the vessel a thorough inspection.
Whenever you see a boat, you should ensure that the seller knows the boat and have a legitimate reason for sale. Ask yourself whether the price is equivalent to other boats on the market - if a deal looks too good to be true it probably is. You should always make sure to see the boat at the seller's home address and never on a car park or other public place.
It is important to check whether the boat has been involved in an accident or has any major repairs done. Most repairs will be secured for 12 months, so it is worth finding out the date of repair and the repairers details in the event of any future problems.
When you are satisfied with the seller is genuine and have agreed an acceptable price, be sure to make payment for the boat. This is usually done by bankers draft or a cash payment can be made. Occasionally the seller may be happy to accept another form of payment, but you must be willing to use whatever method they propose.
The only legal terms that cover a private sale contract are:
Seller shall have the right to sell the vessel
Vessel must not be misrepresented
It should match its description
When the sale is completed, you should always draw up a buyers contract so that each party can sign and keep copies. This will serve as your receipt and will prove that you're the new owner of the boat.
Noble Marine have prepared a sample buyers contract for use in private boat sales. It is always important to keep the purchase receipt and the previous owners details - it may be necessary to prove ownership or contact the previous seller in the future.
If the vessel was home built, or if you're considering buying from outside the EEA, you will also need to be aware of the recreational craft directive requirements.
Tax Status even a yacht is also important so that your boat must have tax status to be allowed free transit throughout the EU.
