ISLADREAM — Buying a used boat: from initial shortlist to handover
2 November 2026
https://isladream.pages.dev/en/journal/achat/

Documentary synthesis, without an onboard survey. Adapt decisions to the boat, current manuals and actual conditions.

[ ] Write down the intended programme and essential criteria.

[ ] Examine seller identity and supporting documents.

[ ] Define the included inventory clearly.

[ ] Agree survey scope and limitations in writing.

[ ] Prepare the trial and record uncompleted checks.

[ ] Cost the full preparation programme.

[ ] Organise handover, formalities and familiarisation.


Sources & documents
RYA — Boat buying made easy
https://www.rya.org.uk/members-legal-advice/buying-owning/boat-buying-made-easy/
IIMS — Small Craft Code of Practice
https://www.iims.org.uk/membership/small-craft-code-of-practice/
Marine Survey Associates — Instructing a surveyor for a pre-purchase survey
https://www.marinesurveyassociates.co.uk/bmse-condition-surveys/instructing-a-bmse-surveyor-for-pre-purchase-survey/
Ministère chargé de la mer — Acheter, vendre, enregistrer un navire
https://www.mer.gouv.fr/acheter-vendre-enregistrer-des-navires-de-plaisance-pour-naviguer-en-mer
Canal & River Trust — Buying a second-hand boat
https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/boating/go-boating/a-guide-to-boating/getting-a-boat-for-the-first-time/buying-a-second-hand-boat