Thoughts on this 2001 Chaparral 230 SSI?

[hostage]

Been looking and having issues finding a boat. I am looking for a 21-23ft open bow w/ either an outboard or IO w/ Bravo III. It is a bit older than I would want and I would have to import it into the US. From the pictures the boat and vinyl looks in good condition. I know some like Chaparral boats, though I know one person who had stringer rot in his Chaparral, though I forgot what year his boat was. My current 19ft Cuddy w/ a 4.3L is getting a little cramp with a kiddo. We would like to have a bit more room to have some additional friends onboard. Boats are a bit overpriced right now, though I have no idea if that will go down or not.
CAD $32,900 / US $25,837

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[briangcc]

Looks nice...could be deceiving. I'd want eyes on it before anything else. And the obligatory sea trial to make sure everything works as it should.

If it checks out, then talk with US Customs on what paperwork they want to import the boat. You'll more then likely be paying fees at the border. Then, check with your DMV/BMV/whatnot on what they want to register it in your name.

 

[hostage]

Looks nice...could be deceiving. I'd want eyes on it before anything else. And the obligatory sea trial to make sure everything works as it should.

If it checks out, then talk with US Customs on what paperwork they want to import the boat. You'll more then likely be paying fees at the border. Then, check with your DMV/BMV/whatnot on what they want to register it in your name.

Just called them, they replaced the bellows, shift cables, gimble bearing, as well as anodes last year. 3 hours each way and that doesn't include customs.

They do a lot of exports and there is no HST, taxes, or import dutys. I only have to pay sales tax, when I go to register the boat in NY State.

My only question I have now is about the license plates for the trailer, do I ask to borrow one or do I need to buy the boat, drive across the border register it and come back?

 

[briangcc]

IF it were me, I'd start here:

https://www.monroecounty.gov/dmv-contact

***Your locale states Rochester NY.

Find out what paperwork the DMV wants/needs to import the boat/trailer and register it in your name. Write the info down.

Next, I'd go to the border (Lew-Queen, Rainbow, Peace Bridge, or 1000 Islands - which ever is more convenient for you in Rochacha) and stop at Customs. Speak to an agent and see what they want for paperwork/fees to import the boat. Write that down. **Shame they killed the high speed ferry as that'd cut out alot of your trip.

Next, go to the marina and sea trial the boat. I don't trust anyone these days, use the boat and see if it meets your expectations. If it does, sign on the line and get the VIN for the trailer and HID for the boat. Leave the combo sitting in the marina and head back to NY with ALL the paperwork the DMV and Customs wants. Stop at Customs to confirm you have all the paperwork - never know as sometimes one rep doesn't know all the answers so best to confirm on your way in.

Now go to the DMV and register both. Grab your plate, reverse your trip and go get your purchase. Stop at Customs if needed.

I would not trust Jim-Bob at the local ON marina to know what he's doing when it comes to this. Know the answers ahead of time to avoid costly border issues.

**Oh yeah, have your VAX card and enhanced ID/RealID/Passport handy.

**You might shave some of your return trip times if you use the DMV in the Falls instead. Just saying...