Buying a used boat

What are the risks of buying a boat privately?

There is no organization like the DVLA for the marine industry and therefore paperwork can be very lapse. Private sales often lack bills of sales and title paperwork which can cause problems later on with your ownership, if you try to sell and if you try and move the boat overseas.

How could Tingdene Boat Sales help you?

Most of the boats we sell on brokerage we have sold from new or they have been known by us through the marina or servicing works for a long period of time. As such, we ensure the boats have traceable title with continuous bills of sales, CE certification & proof of original VAT payment.

Are you able to gain an official contract with valid contact information?

We use forms produced by the British Marine Federation our trade association

What is agreed in the sale? Do you know a reputable surveyor? Can you trial the boat?

Using the contracts detailed above, all aspects of the sale are documented. We are able to advise survey options and arrange accompanied trials.

Is my money safe?

Sending money can always be worrying. We have specific client accounts in place and advise all monies received in writing.

Have you checked the finance history of the boat?

There is no governing body like the DVLA for the boating world. We will endeavor to ensure all the correct paperwork is in place.

What if I have no boating experience or qualifications, I take it out, I panic and damage the boat?

We pride ourselves on the complete service from purchasing, to advising insurance options, official RYA qualifications, personal handovers of the entire boat and a comprehensive on site repair and servicing workshop. We can also offer further boat handling training where required.