Buying a Used Boat in Europe: The Complete Guide

A Rich European Market

Europe offers a vast selection of used boats: sailboats in the Mediterranean, motorboats in the Atlantic, and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) along the Greek coast. Buying in another country often allows you to find a rare model or one better equipped for the same budget.

Storeuro aggregates boat listings across 27 countries, making it easy to compare prices and equipment throughout the continent.

• Wide selection of sailboats, motorboats, and RIBs.
• Access to rare or better-equipped models abroad.
• Compare prices across 27 countries via Storeuro.

Choosing the Right Boat for Your Needs

Before you start searching, define your usage: coastal cruising, offshore sailing, fishing, or leisure. The hull type, draft, and autonomy depend on your specific project. A racing yacht will not suit family cruising, and vice versa.

• Define your usage: cruising, racing, fishing, or day-tripping.
• Choose the hull type according to your planned activity.
• Verify the draft and range are suitable for your target sailing areas.

Inspecting the Hull and Engine

Inspection is the key step. Hire an independent marine surveyor, especially for long-distance purchases. The hull (checking for osmosis or cracks), the engine (hours, maintenance history, exhaust smoke), the deck hardware, and safety equipment must all be thoroughly verified.

• Independent inspection by an accredited marine surveyor.
• Hull: check for osmosis, cracks, and past repairs.
• Engine: engine hours, recent maintenance, and cold-start performance.
• Deck hardware, rigging, and safety equipment status.

Administrative Procedures

A boat must have its paperwork in order. Request the navigation title (or equivalent document), the registration deed (for registered vessels), the tonnage certificate, and proof of insurance. Without these documents, registering the boat in your home country may be impossible.

• Navigation title or registration deed.
• Tonnage and capacity certificates.
• Current boat insurance coverage.
• De-registration from the country of origin for re-registration.

Transporting Your Boat

A boat can be delivered by sea (using a professional skipper) or transported by road (oversized transport depending on size). Compare quotes and verify cargo insurance. For relaunching, ensure you have a slipway or marina berth secured at the destination.

• Delivery by skipper or road transport.
• Oversized transport for large dimensions.
• Cargo insurance and transporter liability.
• Reserved berth space before relaunching.