Boat evaluation may seem like a daunting task for the uninitiated, but it’s actually not impossible if you follow a couple of easy guidelines. Besides having a general idea of the value of a certain class of boat, there are a series of points that are more important than others. Here they are, summed up in a Decalogue:

1) Examine the boat’s hull: Examine the hull and carefully and look for any cracks or chips in the gel coat. Look for any evidence of blistering or fading. If the boat it is out of the water, do also look beneath the waterline for recent maintenance work and antifouling.

2) Take a hard look at all the hatches, and at the areas where different parts of the boat are joined together. Everything should fit well, not be warped by humidity, and be impermeable. Open and close all hatches and sea locks, checking that they are in good shape and well maintained.

3) Now it’s the time to check the engine block, including transmissions and steering. Look at the state of maintenance of all the electrical and liquid cables, and of the transmission. The latter should be smooth, and easily switch from forward to neutral to back. The color of the engine oil is a potential indicator of engine problems.

4) Check the rest of the electrical equipment, and all the switches. Turn everything on and off, and verify that it works. Do this both for the external navigation lights and switches, and for the internal ones of the living compartment, including for the kitchen and toilets.

5) What secrets do the bilges hide? Open up the floorboards to have a look. If you see any signs for oil or water, ask about previous flooding. If the bilges are dirty, maintenance on the boat has probably been haphazard.

6) Look at all the external surfaces, such as the deck, the upholstery, and the wood on the superstructure. If the boat is used some signs of consumption are normal, but have a keen eye for over-use. Even if this point may just seem cosmetic, it could have a major effect on the negotiation of the value of the boats, so don’t neglect it.

7) What condition is the woodwork in? You should especially be on the outlook for any damp spots; in general these are darker than the surrounding wood and will be soft to touch. Do also check for warped, chipped and loose woodwork.
If it’s a sailing boat that you are looking at, check the mast(s), sails and rigging. Don’t forget to look at the spare sails, and don’t just content yourself with a cursory look – take everything out of its sacks, and don’t forget to check all seams.

9) Are accessories included? If yes, what equipment is on board? Check whether accessories and other equipment are part of the deal. The new owner is going to need them anyway, so it’s usually of advantage to both parties to include them (unless the seller needs them for another boat).

10) Check the safety equipment: Pay special attention to the boat’s safety equipment, whether or not it is included – if it is complete and in good shape, there are good chances that the boat has been kept in good order.