Buying a boat is usually an emotional decision. Water sports with all their facets offer so many wonderful moments, so many unforgettable experiences and more potential for relaxation than almost any other hobby. More and more people have obviously recognised this in the recent past and have bought a boat, very often as a second-hand boat, as this is still one of the cheapest ways to get started. However, a second-hand boat also harbours a higher potential for frustration than a new boat purchase.

To ensure that this is minimised, we provide important tips and assistance for buying a used boat in this used boat purchase special.

Which boat is right for me? - Clear criteria when buying a used boat

Deciding which boat best suits your requirements is not easy. It is therefore advisable to define criteria in advance, such as the area in which you want to sail, the level of comfort or the speed. But even defining these criteria can be difficult. In these articles, we offer support in categorising and defining personal needs and wishes.

• The advantages and disadvantages of used boats
• How to find the right boat
• Typology - The most important types of motorboat

Online, broker or notice board: ways to find the right used boat

And where can you find the boat you want? There are many ways, from the notice board in the club to adverts in magazines such as BOOTE or through brokers. These are the classic routes. However, the vast majority of used boat purchases today are made online. This article explains how to find your way through the jungle of offers:

• Your guide through the online jungle

The used boat inspection

Once you have found a suitable advert, no matter where, the first and most important tip is: Never buy without looking, preferably only after a test drive. This is the only way to discover obvious and even more so hidden defects. These articles explain whether you can do this inspection on your own or whether it is better to call in an expert and what to look out for in the purchase contract:

• You should look out for these weak points
• Checklists for the test drive and inspection
• How to avoid traps in the purchase contract

The next steps after buying a used boat

What equipment is on board and what is not? Does every fitting, every electronic system, every unit really work? Which documents are required, which insurances? In the following articles you will find the answers to all these questions as well as comprehensive checklists.

• What new owners need to know
• What insurance do I need for my boat?

We hope you enjoy reading and browsing and that this used boat special helps you to experience an unforgettable first trip with your new purchase.