Boat Purchase Checklist: How to Purchase a Boat

G’day, mate! Thinking about getting yourself a boat? Make sure to go through a boat purchase checklist to ensure you don’t miss any vital features and get the right vessel for your adventures!

Whether you’re keen on fishing, cruising or just enjoying a day out on the water, this guide will help you navigate the choppy waters of boat buying in Australia. Let’s dive in!

Boat Purchase Checklist

1. The Engine

First things first, take a good squiz at the engine. Look for:

• Any signs of wear and tear
• Leaks or dodgy-looking parts
• Make sure it starts up smoothly and doesn’t sound like a sick cockatoo

2. The Hull

The hull is the boat’s body, so it’s crucial. Check for:

• Cracks or blisters
• Signs of previous patch-ups
• Water stains or rust, especially around fittings and the back end (that’s the transom)

3. Electrics

No one wants to be stuck in the dark on the water. So, test:

• All the lights
• Bilge pumps (they keep water out of the boat)
• Navigation gear

Make sure the wiring is ship-shaped and not all corroded.

4. The Trailer

If you’re getting a trailer too, give it a once-over:

• Look for rust
• Check the wheels and tyres
• Make sure the brakes and lights work
• Check it’s the right size for your boat

5. The Interior

Don’t forget to check inside:

• Look at the seats and covers for wear and tear
• Make sure everything’s secure
• Check for any mouldy smells

Paperwork: The Boring But Important Bits

Before you hand over your hard-earned cash, make sure all the paperwork’s in order:

• Check the rego (registration) and title
• Have a gander at the service history
• Do a PPSR check to make sure there’s no money owing on the boat

Other Things to Think About

What Will You Use It For?

Are you into fishing, water skiing, or just cruising? Make sure the boat fits your needs.

Budget

Remember, buying the boat is just the start. You’ll need to factor in:

• Keeping it ship-shape (maintenance)
• Insurance
• Where you’ll park it (storage)

Take It for a Spin

If you can, take the boat out for a test run. It’s the best way to see how she handles it.

Get the Low-Down

Don’t be shy – ask the seller:

• Why they’re selling
• How they’ve looked after it
• Any modifications they’ve made

How to Purchase a Boat in Western Australia

If you’re in WA, here’s what you need to do:

1. Do your research on different types of boats
2. Get a proper inspection done by a marine surveyor
3. Check all the paperwork thoroughly
4. Sort out your financing
5. Haggle on the price and seal the deal
6. Register the boat in your name
7. Think about insurance and where you’ll keep it

Buying a boat can be a ripper experience if you do it right. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to making a smart choice and avoiding any potential lemons.

Ready to hit the water? Before you do, make sure you’ve got your cheapest skippers ticket in Perth with Sea Safe Boat School sorted – it’s the smart way to become a well-informed and happy boat owner.

Use this checklist, and you’ll be sailing towards a great deal faster than you can say “Throw another shrimp on the barbie”! If you’re keen to get started, contact us for a skipper’s ticket in Perth and we’ll help you navigate the waters of boat ownership like a true blue Aussie.