Boat ownership gives you the freedom of the sea, but buying a yacht can be daunting. Here are some essential tips for helping you make the right decision.
Matching the boat to how you’ll sail
What type of sailing do you do?
You might not be the next Ben Ainslie, so If you’re still learning the ropes, a trailer sailer could be for you. These 24-foot boats can be safely overwintered inland and launched anywhere around the coast.
However, if you’ve passed a day skipper course, such as those offered at www.solentboattraining.co.uk/rya-sailing-courses/rya-day-skipper-practical-sailing, and are ready for a challenge, an inshore or coastal cruiser lets you explore the coastline safely. These lightweight but high-performance yachts are fun to sail just a few miles from shore, but if you’re looking for the ultimate experience, an offshore ocean-going yacht will be the right choice.
New or Used?
The dream might be owning a brand-new yacht, but in reality, buying a used one makes a great deal of sense for most people. However, ensure you give your boat a thorough going over before buying, checking the engine, inspecting the rig and taking it for a test sail. If you’re still new to sailing, take an experienced friend with you.
If you decide to buy new, don’t get carried away with luxury items at the expense of equipment essentials. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need to allow an extra 20% over the purchase price to equip your boat for cruising.
Practical features to check before you buy
Other Considerations
Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, here’s what you need to consider:
Cockpit
If you’re sailing with the family, it’s essential that the boat can be sailed single-handedly if necessary.
Helm
Most newer boats have an easy-to-use wheel, but if you like the ‘feel’ of a boat, go for a tiller.
Rig and Sails
Look for an easy-to-handle sail plan for effortless cruising.
Monohull or Multihull?
Multihull craft offer higher speeds and larger deck space but can be challenging to park.
Accommodation
The accommodation should suit your lifestyle and offer plenty of stowage so you can easily retrieve those essential items. Look for easily accessible lockers for seamless cruising.
Summary
This article gives tips for buying a yacht. It recommends matching the boat to your sailing experience, from a small trailer sailer for beginners to an offshore ocean-going yacht. It weighs new against used, recommending an inspection and test sail for a used boat, and budgeting an extra 20% for equipment on a new yacht. It covers cockpit, helm, rigging, monohull versus multihull, and storage.
Questions this article raises
- How much does a professional pre-purchase survey typically cost for a used yacht?
- Is a wheel or tiller helm better for a beginner sailing with family aboard?
- How do you decide between a monohull and multihull if speed and storage both matter?
