Buying a Used Boat in the UK: The Complete Checklist

Confirm the seller actually owns it

Ask to see the ownership trail: the seller’s Bill of Sale from when they bought it, and any registration. Note that the Small Ships Register (SSR) proves nationality, not ownership — only Part 1 of the UK Ship Register records title. Check the hull identification number (HIN) on the boat matches the paperwork.

Check the VAT status

For most boats used in the UK or EU you want evidence that VAT has been paid (or that the boat is legitimately VAT-exempt). Missing VAT paperwork can create a large, unexpected bill later, particularly on cross-border movements after Brexit. Ask for the original VAT invoice or a paid-VAT certificate.

Look for outstanding finance

Marine finance follows the boat, not the seller. If there is an unpaid marine mortgage, you could inherit the problem. Ask directly, get written confirmation the boat is sold free of finance, and for higher-value boats consider a marine finance/registry check.

Get a pre-purchase survey

For anything beyond a small dinghy, commission an independent pre-purchase survey from a qualified marine surveyor (look for YDSA or IIMS accreditation). A survey checks the hull, structure, osmosis, rigging, systems and safety, and typically pays for itself — either in peace of mind or in negotiating room. Agree the price "subject to survey" so you can renegotiate or walk away.

A survey on a used yacht or motorboat commonly costs a few hundred to over a thousand pounds depending on size — small against the cost of the boat and the cost of getting it wrong.

Insist on a sea trial

A sea trial is your chance to see the boat perform. Check that the engine starts easily from cold, runs smoothly through the rev range, holds temperature and oil pressure, and does not smoke excessively. Test steering, gears, electronics, bilge pumps and any sails or winches. Listen and feel for vibration or odd noises.

Inspect the engine and systems

• Engine hours and service history — ask for receipts and the last major service.
• Look for oil or coolant leaks, corrosion, and the condition of belts, hoses and the exhaust.
• Check batteries, wiring, and that all electronics and navigation kit work.
• Test seacocks, the bilge, and for any signs of water ingress or damp.
• On sailing boats, inspect the rigging, sails, and standing/running gear.

Think about the running costs

The purchase price is only the start. Budget for a mooring or berth (which can be a significant annual cost and may have a waiting list), insurance, winter storage, antifouling, servicing and licensing. Factor these in before you commit — they often surprise first-time buyers.

Complete the purchase properly

When you are happy, agree the final price in writing and use a Bill of Sale that records buyer, seller, boat details, price, date and condition. Pay by cleared bank transfer, collect all documents (registration, VAT evidence, service history, manuals), and transfer the registration into your name. Then arrange insurance before you take the boat away.