On Thu, 19 Aug 2004 23:03:56 GMT, vze3j5ge
wrote:

My husband and I are considering purchase of a used boat - currently out
of the water at our marina. We've spoken to a marine surveyor we might
hire who says that the engine can be tested to some extent on land but
that we really should put the boat in the water and check it out. Seems
reasonable - but my question is one about procedure. Who usually pays
for the marina to put boat in and take it out again in such a case -
buyer or seller?

Thanks for any help.

Normally it requires a deposit in escrow against the potential
purchase. Which is to say, you deposit 10%, or an agreed upon sum
which shows your good faith, then the launch, test cruise, inspection,
etc. can be arranged. If you decide not to purchase after, then the
deposit is returned less any fees.

The buyer pays for the launch and recovery, but in several cases that
I'm aware of, the fee was split once the survey was done and the
purchase price was agreed on. If you decide not to purchase the boat,
then you have lost the fee, but normally at that point, the seller
becomes more motivated so if problems are found, a formerly firm price
becomes amazingly negotiable (unless the seller is a complete idiot).

At that point, it's up to you what to do with regard to purchase. You
can have the owner fix any problems or agree to fix the problems at a
discounted price for the vessel. Depending on how big the vessel is,
your insurance company will require a copy of the survey and evidence
of any repairs before allowing you to operate the vessel under their
umbrella.

There are variations on this, but any reputable broker/yard will help
you through the process. Take your time.

Good luck.

Later,

Tom
S. Woodstock, CT
-----------
"Angling may be said to be so
like the mathematics that it
can never be fully learnt..."

Izaak Walton "The Compleat Angler", 1653