[momc4312]

Don’t need to borrow money? Plan to self-insure? Have the boat surveyed anyway. That is truly the only way to know what you are buying. Jolaine Lanehart, Texas resident and long-time boat owner, writes, “Look into every nook, turn every knob, sniff every corner, feel every thru hull, and turn the thing inside out – new paint, air freshener, a thin coat of veggie oil, and “romantic” lighting can hide some really big problems that you won’t see or smell until it’s way too late.”

[ashleywittky]

You almost own a boat! The purchase agreement has been signed and the broker has your earnest money. Now it is time to let a professional “kick the tires.” While I have purchased boats on an “as is-where is” basis, I recommend that a newbie’s boat purchase always be subject to survey and sea trial. (Your financial institution and insurance broker will probably require the survey and sea trial anyway.)

[virtualcoin]

You should know that you own the survey report; it is your property. The surveyor should never share it unless he has written authorization to release the report to others. [links]

[marywilliams937]

Bring the boat to 30 mph, check behind for traffic, then crank a hard-over turn to each side. Ideally, the boat should carve cleanly and powerfully through the turn without the engine struggling to maintain speed or the propeller losing its bite on the water. more

[Cryptoman]

Sea Trials as a Passenger [links]

[chaseadam]

Other items to note include:

[Hansietorse3]

When it comes performing a sea trial, there are a few main steps you should follow:

[wiskathecat]

Look at the condition of the underwater gear. Is the skeg still nicely painted? Is the leading edge still straight and true or is it knackered from hitting rocks or sandbars? If it is damaged, keep its condition in mind when you shift the boat in and out of gear during the sea trial.
more

[BgB]

When you advance the throttle, notice how difficult or easy it is for the boat to get on plane and see if it’s something you can live with every boating day. Once you’re up and cruising, take it top speed. The boat should do that and hold that speed with no trouble. If you’re satisfied with the result, bring it back down to cruising speed, usually 3,500 rpm is a good rule of thumb. [links]

[gmurray840]

Will these procedures keep you from buying a lemon? There is a chance any used boat you buy will need some work not long after you buy it. However, you can learn a lot about any boat testing it this way. The method will uncover mechanical foibles and idiosyncrasies, yes, but it also will highlight — perhaps most importantly — whether you like it enough to make it your own.

[specious]

There are established standards for sea trials leading to a vessel’s certification, but unless a buyer insists on a survey, a casual boat ride is usually all that is expected. Serious buyers will insist on a sea trial before buying, especially if your boat is uncommon or complicated. A chance to get out and share the enjoyment of being on the water is a great way to sell the "dream," which will help sell the boat.

[Expez]

While the boat is hoisted up on a trailer, make a fist and make one solid pound on the hull around the entire boat. It should be sturdy and hollow. If not, it could indicate water seepage.

[carol88miller]

Much like you would a vehicle you wanted to purchase, the prospective boat you want should be taken for a sea trial before signing on the dotted line. Without a marine surveyor, however, the process can be daunting, as you might not know what to look for. However, in this third installment of the boat buying process guide, we are going to lay out the key components that you should examine during your sea trial. Most importantly, protect your new investment with a comprehensive Boat Insurance policy.

[adamjkok]

If the engine’s rotating assembly is going to make any funny noises, it will be when it’s cold. Open the hatch so you can hear everything better. Does the starter engage smoothly and quietly? Does the engine rattle or knock when you start it? It should run with little more than a thrum of vibration and the hiss from the flame arrestor atop the engine. more

[donpdonp]

As you back out, notice how the shifter works. Does it engage forward and reverse when the shifter is moved to the detents? Is there any binding or sticking in the shift cables? Not all signs of trouble will be deal-breakers, but it can help you develop your punch list if you decide to buy it, explains Boat Trader. more

[NuAngel]

When you ask to go on a sea trial on a brand new boat, you should have already have a good idea of the boat you are serious about buying, and that it will also work for your family. It may be beneficial to narrow down your search, rather than sea trialing every boat you like but have no intention of buying. here

[Keefe]

The sea trial is where everything meets the water: all your research, all the info given to you by the salesman, manufacturer and of course, your boating friends. The boat should perform the way you expect and the way the salesman presented it. The only surprise should be that sea trial exceeds your expectations. [links]

[puddinpop]

It’s the seller’s and or broker‘s job to make sure the boat is ready for sea trial with proper safety equipment, at least a half tank of fuel and all systems in working order or as represented in the listing. here

[Regent]

A sea trial is not the time to take all your friends for a boat ride. Your family or an experienced friend is a different story since they share in decision making. Too many people on a sea trial creates a cramped environment that makes it more difficult to look around the boat, listen to the salesman and the boat itself, and put her through her paces. Save the big crowd ride for the maiden voyage, and tell the guests to bring the refreshments. [links]

[mstate2]

Hiring a surveyor is a MUST for a sea trial! You wouldn’t buy a house without a home inspection, would you…? Besides if you are financing, the bank will require it. Most insurance companies also require a survey for the purchase price or agreed-upon value to insure the boat. here