Buying & Selling Advice

Nearly 90 million adults in the United States participate in boating each year — that's more than a third of the adult population who enjoy getting out on the water. Every year nearly 1.5 million Americans buy a new or used boat, ranging from large yachts to small cruisers to canoes. The Boat Buyers Guide from BoatUS is designed to make it easier for you to buy a boat by explaining the sometimes-confusing process and pointing out the areas that can trip up a buyer.

BoatUS has helped buyers make wise decisions for more than 50 years. Whether you’re an old salt moving up to a bigger boat or a new boater looking to buy your first vessel, the information in this guide can help you ensure the transaction goes smoothly.

Boat Buyers Guide

Where To Find A Boat

This is the fun part — looking at different boats to find one that fits your needs and your budget.

About Used Boats

Personal finances are often a key factor in the decision to buy a new or used boat.

Avoiding Buying And Selling Scams

Many of the scams we see today are variations on old tricks that have been around for decades.

Determining Condition And Value

No one wants to overpay for a boat, so how can you get a good idea of its worth?

Sales Contracts

Whether you buy a new or a used boat, the best way to protect your interests is to outline the terms of the sale in writing.

Extended Service Contracts

Extended service contracts may or may not be a good value depending on your situation and who is underwriting it.

Do I Need Boat Insurance?

You're probably not required by law to carry boat insurance, but that doesn't mean you don't need it.

Avoiding The Boat Insurance Blues

Five ways that some boat insurance policies fail to live up to expectations.

After The Sale Details

You've found the boat of your dreams, the price is right, and you've paid the seller. So the boat is yours free and clear — or is it?

Find A Marine Surveyor

BoatUS Purchase Agreement

U.S. Coast Guard Bill of Sale (CG-1340)

Vessel Documentation

Apply for a Boat Loan

Fourth Time’s A Charm

Searching for a pre-owned trawler, they paid for three surveys and struck out three times before finding their perfect boat. Here’s what they learned from these experiences — and some advice for sellers

Will boat prices ever come down?

A convergence of factors made the last few years a crazy time to buy or sell a boat. Here’s what happened – and what to know about today’s listings.

7 Essential Things Every New Boat Owner Should Do

Bought a new — or new-to-you — boat? Make sure you add these critical items to your checklist before taking to the water.

Boat Selling Scams To Avoid

Unfortunately, these days, selling your boat may be rife with attempts from "buyers" trying to fleece you! Here are the red flags for fraud and what to do about it.

Basic Boat Equipment

From basic essentials to safety gear, proper outfitting is the key to a safe, enjoyable day on the water. Here's the lowdown on what every new boat needs.

The 2021/2022 Boat Shows Are A Go!

Let’s try to leave the last year-plus in our wake and chart a new course for our favorite boat shows — because they're back, with a few twists.

Be Your Own Surveyor (Sort Of)

There's no substitute for a proper marine survey, but there are some basic DIY inspection techniques. Here are some expert tips to view a boat with a critical eye.

U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Documentation FAQs

Wondering how to renew or document a vessel with the U.S. Coast Guard? BoatUS answers your most common questions on vessel documentation.

When Life Hands You Lemons

Here's what to do when your boat — or any of the good stuff that comes with it — doesn't work as advertised.