Selling Your Wooden Boat: Tips For A Quick Sale

Selling a wooden boat can be a challenging task. The market for wooden boats is relatively small, and potential buyers may be deterred by the perception of high maintenance and upkeep costs associated with this type of vessel. However, there are several strategies you can employ to maximise your chances of a successful sale. Firstly, it is crucial to thoroughly clean and present the boat in the best possible light. This includes removing any clutter, cleaning the bilge, and ensuring the boat is free of unpleasant odours. Taking clear and detailed photographs from multiple angles, both inside and out, will also help attract potential buyers. Utilise various marketing channels such as local newspapers, online boat-selling websites, and social media platforms like Facebook, which has dedicated groups for wooden boat enthusiasts. Consider attending local boat shows and spreading the word among your network. Price the boat competitively by researching similar vessels that have been sold recently, rather than focusing on the amount you have invested in it. Finally, be prepared to provide potential buyers with a comprehensive package of information about the boat, including any maintenance or repair work carried out, insurance details, and any awards or accolades the boat has received.

Clean and present the boat well

When it comes to selling a wooden boat, presentation is key. Here are some tips to ensure your boat is clean and well-presented:

Start by giving the boat a thorough cleaning. Wash down all surfaces, including the hull, deck, cockpit, and cabin. Pay special attention to areas that may be prone to dirt and grime, such as the bilge and engine compartment. A clean boat will not only look more appealing to potential buyers but also demonstrate that it has been well-maintained.

Next, address any cosmetic issues. This includes sanding and refinishing the wood, as well as touching up any paint or varnish. It is important that the boat looks as pristine as possible, so be sure to take the time to make any necessary repairs or improvements. In particular, check for any signs of dry rot or warping, as these issues can be common in wooden boats and may be a concern for potential buyers.

Don't forget to clean and organise the interior of the boat as well. Make sure all surfaces are wiped down, and put away any loose items or clutter. If the boat has a galley or head, be sure to clean these areas thoroughly. A tidy and inviting interior can make a big difference in how potential buyers perceive the boat.

Consider adding some finishing touches to really make the boat shine. This could include polishing any metal fixtures or railings, as well as waxing the hull to give it a glossy finish. These small details can make a big impression and show that you have taken good care of the boat.

Finally, take the time to stage the boat for viewings. Open up the cabin to make it feel inviting, and consider adding some decorative touches such as throw pillows or a vase of flowers. You want potential buyers to be able to envision themselves spending time on the boat, so make it feel as welcoming and comfortable as possible.

Take and display a lot of pictures

When it comes to selling a wooden boat, pictures are a key part of your listing. You want potential buyers to fall in love with your boat at first sight. A well-presented boat with a comprehensive set of images will stand out from the crowd and attract more interest. Here are some tips to help you take and display a lot of pictures to achieve a successful sale:

Clean and Prepare Your Boat:

Before you start snapping photos, ensure your boat is clean and well-maintained. This includes both the interior and exterior. Get rid of any clutter, and pay attention to details like chrome fittings, stainless steel, and woodwork. A clean boat signals to buyers that it has been well cared for. Consider investing in some minor upgrades if certain aspects of the boat look outdated or worn out. This can make a big difference in how potential buyers perceive the vessel.

Choose the Right Location:

Avoid taking photos in your driveway or garage, as this can be off-putting to buyers. Instead, opt for a location that showcases the boat in a positive light. Consider taking the boat to a local lake or river, or even the ocean if that's an option. A body of water in the background hints that the boat has been used and enjoyed. Look for uncluttered backdrops like a soccer field car park or a boat ramp. If you can, get the boat out on the water—images of a moving boat are often more attractive to potential buyers than one sitting on a trailer.

Lighting and Angles:

Wait for the right lighting conditions before taking your photos. Bright, sunny days are ideal for exterior shots, but be mindful of harsh shadows. Face the boat into the sun to ensure it is well-lit and stands out from the background. For interior shots, a cloudy day or diffuse light source will provide more even lighting. Use all the interior lights, even during the daytime, to illuminate any dark corners. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture tight spaces effectively. Get creative with angles and experiment with different perspectives to showcase the boat's best features.

Showcase Key Features and Be Honest About Flaws:

Make a list of all the boat's highlights, such as a great bait board set-up, modern chartplotter, or low engine hours. Capture each of these features in your photos. If there are any flaws or issues, be honest and include photos of them as well. This builds trust with potential buyers and helps them make an informed decision. Remember to include a variety of close-ups and wide shots to give a full picture of the boat.

Take Lots of Pictures:

Don't be shy—take numerous photos from different angles and distances. You can always delete the ones you don't need later. This gives you a wide selection to choose from when creating your listing. It's also a good idea to include photos of the boat both in and out of the water, showcasing different aspects of the vessel. If possible, get a friend to help you take pictures from a second boat or from the shore.

Display Your Photos Well:

When creating your listing, choose a variety of photos that showcase the boat from different angles and highlight its best features. Include a mix of interior and exterior shots, as well as close-ups and wide angles. Use clear and concise descriptions for each image, providing potential buyers with detailed information about the boat. Remember, the goal is to create a compelling visual story that showcases the boat in the best possible light and helps buyers envision themselves owning and enjoying it.

Ensure the boat is easily accessible for viewing

When it comes to selling your wooden boat, ease of viewing is important. If your boat is in a remote location, consider moving it somewhere with a higher concentration of potential buyers within easy travelling distance. It may also be better to have the boat on shore, rather than on a mooring that takes 30 minutes to reach by dinghy.

Make sure your boat is clean and tidy. A deep clean will always create the right impression. The outside should also be neat and tidy – a pressure wash and fresh coat of antifoul can work wonders. If you don't have time to carry out these tasks, it's worth paying someone else to do so.

It's also important to keep the boat looking good throughout the sales process, which can take around 12 months.

Price the boat correctly

Pricing a wooden boat correctly is a critical aspect of selling it successfully. Here are some instructive guidelines to help you set the right price:

Firstly, it is essential to assess the condition of the wooden boat. A thorough inspection of the hull is necessary to check for any dry rot, warping, or structural issues. Wooden boats are prone to warping if not properly supported during storage. The storage conditions, such as humidity levels, can also impact the wood, causing it to shrink or dry out. If the boat has been out of the water for an extended period, it may require re-packing and re-caulking.

Secondly, consider the age and history of the boat. Older wooden boats, especially those with a rich history or unique story, may be more desirable to collectors or enthusiasts. If the boat has been well-maintained and has had regular refurbishment, it will likely fetch a higher price.

Thirdly, evaluate the engine and mechanical systems. A wooden boat with a newer, low-hour engine that has been recently rebuilt or is in excellent working condition will demand a higher price. Ensure that the engine has been properly maintained and serviced.

Additionally, take into account any special features or upgrades that have been made to the boat. For example, if the boat has been treated with a "West System Epoxy" bottom treatment, it will be easier to maintain and may be more attractive to buyers. Other upgrades, such as new upholstery, varnish, or a 'no-soak' conversion, can also increase the value.

Finally, research the market and compare similar wooden boats for sale. Check online marketplaces, boat sales websites, and classified ads to get a sense of the current market value for wooden boats of similar make, model, age, and condition. This will help you set a competitive and realistic price.

Remember, pricing your wooden boat correctly is crucial to finding the right buyer and ensuring a smooth selling process. Be prepared to negotiate and consider getting professional advice or a survey if you are unsure about the value of your boat.

Provide a detailed information package for prospective buyers

When selling a wooden boat, it is important to provide a detailed information package for prospective buyers. This package should include a variety of information that showcases the boat's history, current condition, and any relevant maintenance or repair work that has been done. Here are some essential components of the information package:

• Boat specifications: Provide detailed information about the boat's make, model, year, length, engine specifications, and any unique features or customizations. Include any recent upgrades or modifications that have been made to the boat.
• Maintenance and repair records: Gather all receipts, invoices, and documentation related to maintenance and repair work performed on the boat. This shows prospective buyers that the boat has been well-maintained and also provides a timeline of the boat's care.
• Condition assessment: Conduct a thorough inspection of the boat and document its current condition. Address any issues such as dry rot, structural problems, warping, or damage to the hull. Be transparent about any necessary repairs or improvements, as this builds trust with potential buyers.
• Photographic evidence: Take multiple photographs of the boat from various angles, including close-up shots of any deficiencies or areas of concern. Include pictures of the trailer (if applicable), engine, interior, and exterior. These visuals provide buyers with a clear understanding of the boat's condition and can help generate interest.
• Video tour: Consider creating a simple video walkthrough of the boat, highlighting its features and providing a narrative about its history, usage, and any unique characteristics. This adds a personal touch and allows buyers to connect with the boat on a deeper level.
• Awards and accolades: If the boat has received any awards or accolades over the years, be sure to include this information in the package. This adds value and showcases the boat's exceptional qualities.
• Registration and ownership documentation: Ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork for transferring ownership, including a transferable registration for the boat and trailer (if applicable). This streamlines the sales process and provides peace of mind for the buyer.
• Contact information for previous contractors: Provide a list of contractors, specialists, or boat yards that have worked on the boat in the past. This allows prospective buyers to reach out for additional information or follow-up inquiries.
• Spring commissioning and winterization procedures: Include any relevant procedures or guidelines for preparing the boat for different seasons. This demonstrates your commitment to proper boat care and helps the new owner navigate the maintenance process effectively.
• Historical documents and bills of sale: Gather any historical documents, previous bills of sale, and other relevant paperwork related to the boat's ownership history. This adds to the boat's story and showcases its lineage.

By providing a comprehensive information package, you instill confidence in prospective buyers, address potential concerns, and increase the likelihood of a successful sale. It is essential to be transparent, honest, and detailed in your presentation to attract serious buyers who appreciate the unique qualities of wooden boats.

Frequently asked questions