Signs of prior accident damage include: mismatched gelcoat color or texture in repaired areas, non-factory drill holes or hardware locations, structural cracks radiating from a…
Ask any boat dealer: What is the complete service history on this boat? Has it had any accident or insurance claim? Are there any outstanding…
Dealers offer more protections — title clarity, some warranty coverage, financing options, and recourse if problems emerge. Private sellers often offer lower prices but you…
Dealer warranties on used boats vary widely. Most are limited 30-90 day warranties covering the engine and drivetrain only — they typically exclude upholstery, electronics,…
A marine survey is a professional inspection of a boat by a certified marine surveyor — the boating equivalent of a home inspection. It covers…
Older fiberglass hulls can be excellent values — fiberglass is extremely durable and many boats from the 1990s and 2000s have decades of life remaining…
Major red flags on a used boat: soft or spongy deck areas (water-damaged core), heavy bilge staining from persistent leaks, mismatched gelcoat repairs indicating past…
Engine hours are meaningful but context-dependent. A well-maintained inboard engine can last 1,500-2,500 hours. Outboards and sterndrives in the 300-800 hour range are common on…
Osmotic blistering occurs when water penetrates the fiberglass gelcoat and creates fluid-filled bubbles beneath the surface. It is common in boats kept in the water…
Buying a salvage-title boat carries significant risk. Salvage titles are issued when an insurance company has declared the boat a total loss due to damage,…
