- Always get an independent survey and a separate engine inspection.
- A sea trial shows things a survey at the dock cannot.
- Check that ownership, registration and any outstanding charges are clear.
- Take professional advice on registration, VAT and tax before you pay.
Before viewing
- Ask for the service history, recent invoices and the engine hours.
- Ask when the boat was last antifouled and whether it has been out of the water recently.
- Request photos of the engine room, bilge, electrical panel and hull bottom.
The survey
A pre-purchase survey by an independent marine surveyor covers the hull, deck, structure, through-hulls, steering, rigging and systems. Choose a surveyor who works for you, not the seller. The boat should be hauled out so the underwater hull can be inspected.
Engine inspection
A general survey often does not include a detailed engine check. Ask a marine mechanic to inspect the engine: cold start, smoke, oil condition, cooling, leaks, mounts, drive and, where useful, an oil analysis or diagnostic readout.
Sea trial
A sea trial should include starting from cold, running at cruising and full speed, checking temperatures, testing steering and gearbox, and looking for vibration, leaks and alarms. For sailing yachts, hoist and furl the sails.
Budget for the work the survey finds. Use the report to negotiate: buyers who plan for the first year of repairs are rarely disappointed.
Documents and ownership
Check that the seller is the registered owner, that the hull identification and engine serial numbers match the documents, and that there are no outstanding debts, charges or marina fees attached to the boat. Registration, flag changes, VAT status and taxes depend on your circumstances and the boat’s history, so take advice from a qualified Spanish gestor, lawyer or broker before you pay.
After you buy
Plan a full service, safety check and deep clean so you start with a known baseline. Krautic can arrange inspections, engine checks, cleaning and repairs at your marina, and our buy, sell and charter service can help with the search itself.