Remember,there are no stupid questions. Now,will anyone admit to buying a used boat WITHOUT sea testing it first? I don't mean a project type boat either. Did you really get burned or luck out and make a good deal? Just curious.Thank you.<br />Sandi
In my early 20s, I bought a 10 ft. jon boat without setting it in the water, and it leaked like a sieve.<br /><br />That convinced me to always "test drive" anything that could be tested before buying. Cars, boats, motorcycles, etc.<br /><br />But, if I knew I could resell it, and had other trusted friends to rely on, and the price was a giveaway, I could POSSIBLY be convinced to buy without test riding. And that is a very bif IF for me.
I will admit it...I didn't sea test my 1984 Larson prior to buying it but I did luck out.<br />I bought it from a guy that lived 2 miles up the road from me and I if I didn't get it when I did I would I wouldn't get it.<br />I also had all the maintenance paperwork showing that all the work had been performed at the marina by the house.<br />To date I have had no problems other than normal upkeep. Like I said...I got lucky.
I have bought several that way and have yet to be burned. When you figgure out what you want to offer deduct an allowance for hidden repairs. Of course go over it with a fine tooth comb.<br /><br />The ones I don't understand are the ones bought from a picture and the sellers description as in eBay.
i bought my 20' center console without a sea trial. i had lengthy communications with the seller beforehand, lots of pictures and question/answer sessions. i traveled 330 miles to get it, and we were 100 miles from water at the time. i gave the boat a thorough inspection and ran the engine. took a chance, but minimized my risk. turned out well- got a great boat i love.
