7 Things to Know Before Buying a Boat

Buying a second-hand boat can lead to serious financial losses if not done with the right knowledge and care. In this guide, we cover the 7 critical points recommended by experienced boat buyers and expert brokers.

1. Clarify the Type of Boat and Its Purpose

Before buying a boat, ask yourself these questions:

• What will you mainly use the boat for? (day trips, blue cruising, fishing, long-distance travel)
• How many people will use it?
• In what waters will you sail? (inland, coastal, offshore)
• What is your experience level? (licence required for sailing boats)

2. Set a Realistic Budget

The purchase price of the boat is only part of the total cost of ownership. Annual boat ownership costs include:

• Marina/mooring fee: €2,000–€15,000+ per year
• Insurance: 1–2% of boat value
• Maintenance and repairs: 5–10% of boat value annually
• Fuel: Varies with usage
• Winter haul-out and maintenance: €500–€3,000

General rule: set aside at least 15–20% of the purchase price as an annual maintenance budget.

3. Commission a Survey (Boat Survey)

Hiring an independent marine surveyor before buying a boat is absolutely essential. A survey report covers:

• Hull integrity and osmosis check
• Engine and mechanical systems condition
• Electrical installation and safety equipment
• Joinery and interior fittings
• Market value assessment

Survey cost is €300–€800; but it prevents thousands of euros in surprise expenses down the line.

4. Check the Boat's Legal Status

Legal checks to note when buying a boat in Turkey:

• Registry: Whether the boat has a mortgage, lien or pledge in favour of another party
• Boat registration certificate: Maritime directorate registration
• Boat licence (harbour master's certificate)
• For foreign-flagged vessel purchases, customs duties apply (18% VAT + special consumption tax on boat value)

5. Test the Engine and Mechanical Systems

Always carry out a sea trial. During the engine test, pay attention to:

• Start the engine cold; note any starting problems
• Check engine power and vibration at full throttle
• Monitor engine temperature and oil pressure
• Check gear transitions
• Exhaust smoke colour (black smoke = fuel problem; blue smoke = oil burning)

6. Research Insurance and Financing Options

There are two main policy types for boat insurance:

• Hull insurance: Covers damage to the boat itself (collision, storm, fire, etc.)
• Third-party liability: Covers damage and injury caused to others

You can use a boat loan from Turkish banks; but compare at least three banks for interest rates and repayment terms.

7. Get Support from a Broker or Expert Consultant

Support from an experienced broker during the boat purchase process saves both time and money. A good broker:

• Filters options that fit your budget
• Helps you negotiate the price
• Manages legal processes
• Coordinates the survey

The vast majority of boats listed on the SnapYacht platform are offered by authorised brokers. You can get expert support by contacting them directly.