How to Inspect a Used Boat

Inspecting a used boat is one of the most important parts of the buying process, and you want to make sure you’re prepared when you step foot onto the dealership lot. Thankfully, we’ve written some helpful tips below to ensure your used boat model is in tip-top shape when you take it off the sales floor. 

Inspect the Hull

Your boat’s hull is one of its most important parts, and you’ll want to inspect it thoroughly to ensure your model is sea-worthy. To begin, walk around the outside of the hull to check for any damages, such as blistering paint, corrosion, or large cracks. You’ll also want to take note of any dimples, warps, or mismatched paint—as these often indicate the hull has been repaired in the past. 

Inspect the Interior 

Once you’ve inspected your used boat’s hull, move on to the interior of the model. You’ll want to keep a close eye out for signs of mildew, rust, or pests, as these are often indicative of negligence or improper care from previous owners. Be sure to also check your deck for signs of rot by tapping or pressing on the wood to see if there are any soft spots. 

Inspect the Engine 

To inspect your used boat’s engine you’ll need to first check that the engine oil is clear, fresh, and devoid of any metal shavings or debris. Afterward, smell the contents of your fuel tank to ensure the gas inside hasn’t gone rancid. Ensure that other fluids—such as the coolant and transmission fluid—are also clean and clear of debris and that the engine can start up without any issues. 

If you’re in the market for a used boat, we strongly recommend visiting us here at East Coast Flightcraft Inc. We offer 9 different locations all across the United States East Coast, with each of our dealerships offering an amazing selection of high-quality used boats for you to browse through. If you’re located in the states of Massachusetts or New Hampshire we encourage you to stop at your nearest East Coast Flightcraft Inc. to take care of all of your boating needs!