Do you have any idea what to look for when you want to buy used sail boat? Most of the people look for cool things on the boats and they end up picking a boat mostly based on its look. To avoid buying a boat full of problems and which can end up being very costly to deal with, we share some of our advice in hope of helping you buy a good used boat. Use these easy tips to get started.

Carefully inspect the deck, hull & rudder

Frist of all lift everything that can be lifted for better inspection of frames. If you can see that frames were repaired that is the sign that boat probably hit the ground. So, you want to be sure that all repairs were done according to highest standards. Frames and hull must be well laminated to make one solid unity. From the outside, you should look for any sign of osmosis. You will recognise it by spotting small blisters on the surface of the hull. Take your time to search for a boat that doesn’t have moisture issues because this is expencive repair job. Further, you should check the condition of the cockpit floor and all the hatches on the deck. Be sure that there is no leaking because if water finds its way into the core of the boat, you could have an expensive problem on your hands.

Give the rudder a good shake to see if the bearings and all connections on the steering mechanism are worn out or loose. Turn the rudder left and right to make sure that it moves freely and has not been damaged in any grounding or collision.

Checking the mast, sails, rigging and halyards

Age of the sails is the one of the main reason to replace them, so check how old the sails on the boat are. Also carefully inspect any damages on it.

Check all the connection between mast and rigs. It is important for good and safe sailing. Another important thing to check is the base - connection between the mast and the deck.

Halyards are the only way for you to get on the top of the mast, so inspect them carefully. It should be done visually, especially the part which is inside of the mast.

Check the engine

The engine is the heart of the boat, so bring the mechanic to inspect it carefully. The best way to check the engine is when you can cold start it. The smoke should be minimal and clear. Inspect the engine visually and check if there is any oil leak.

Try reviving the engine up. If you feel the cockpit vibrating you could have an alignment problem that may be difficult to fix with the old motor.  Also, check if is it properly centred.  Bended mounts can be a sign of catching the mooring lines with a propeller in the past.

Before buying a boat, get down there with a flashlight and inspect motor mounts.

Check the electronic & electric installation

Take a close look at the electrical system to be sure it is adequate and in good working condition. Today's boats are often loaded with all sorts of additional electric and electronic equipment, and they often require new wiring and upgraded fuse or breaker panels.

Turn on all electronic instruments and check if they all work properly. Also, check if they all are still water resistant as they should be. It could happen that they all properly work while it's dry, but as soon as they get wet, the problem occurs.

Batteries are also an important part of the inspection. You should test them with a battery tester. Their capacity should be at least 60% - 70% to hold a charge.  Be sure to have a good battery charger.

At the end there are other issues you have to watch out for, like anchor windlass condition, winches, water and fuel tanks, condition of the wood inside of the boat (bulkheads, doors), toilets conditions, pumps …

But, if you are still interested in the boat after inspection, make your own list of issues to predict necessary time and money to fix it. Be aware the fact that boats which are well equipped and have been properly maintained are harder to find – if they are offered for a fair price they tend to sell quickly, often for a figure close to the asking price.

In Euronautic fleet every boat is maintained according to the highest standards as we want to provide our clients with the best possible service and be sure that guests on their charter holidays won’t be bothered with some technical problems. If you have any doubts or questions we are at your disposal.

Good luck, and happy sailboat inspecting.