Best Places To Sell Your Boat

If you're looking to sell your boat, there are several options available to you. You could use an online boating marketplace such as Boat Trader, boats.com, or YachtWorld. Alternatively, you could try selling on a more general marketplace like Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. If you don't want to sell your boat online, you could try advertising within your network, putting it on display in a high-profile place, or posting flyers on cork boards at marinas. You could also consider having a boat dealer sell your boat for you, although this usually involves paying a commission.

Online marketplaces like Boat Trader, boats.com, YachtWorld, Craigslist, eBay, and OfferUp

Online marketplaces are a great way to sell your boat quickly, safely, and for the best price. The most popular websites to sell your boat include boating-specific marketplaces like Boat Trader, boats.com, and YachtWorld, as well as more general marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and OfferUp.

Boat Trader is the largest boating marketplace in America, with millions of potential buyers at your fingertips. It offers a simple solution to sell your boat, with a straightforward process that involves only an initial listing fee. You can build your listing, choose a package that fits your budget and needs, and then add photos and videos. Boat Trader also offers upgrades to make your listing stand out, such as additional photos and placing your listing on boats.com.

Boats.com is another popular boating-specific marketplace with thousands of local buyers browsing for their next boat each day.

YachtWorld is a brokerage website where you will need to list through a broker and pay a brokerage fee.

Craigslist is a longstanding and ubiquitous classified ad website that requires no membership to advertise and no app to download. It is a great option for selling locally, as people in your area can come and inspect your boat. Posting many good and useful photos and providing a lot of information about the boat are key to success on Craigslist.

EBay is another general marketplace option, but it does charge a percentage of the sale price or a "service fee."

OfferUp is a popular app-based marketplace that has been successful in selling boats, depending on your area.

When selling your boat online, it is important to cast a broad net and place your focus on websites where boaters browse, such as boating-specific marketplaces. It is also recommended to advertise in as many places as possible to sell your boat quickly.

Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace

Creating a Compelling Listing

When creating your listing, it is important to write a catchy title that will attract potential buyers. Include the boat type, year, and any unique features in the title. For example, "2007 Sea Ray 480 Sundancer – Well-maintained with New Engine". A detailed and engaging description will help buyers understand the boat's features, condition, and history. Be transparent and provide potential buyers with all the information they need to make an informed decision.

High-Quality Photos and Videos

Including high-quality photos and videos in your listing is essential to attract interest and showcase the boat effectively. Take clear and appealing photos from different angles, showcasing the boat's exterior and interior, as well as any special features or improvements. Consider including videos that highlight the boat in action, providing a more dynamic perspective for potential buyers.

Pricing Your Boat Competitively

Research similar boats on the market to determine a competitive price. Consider the boat's age, condition, and any additional features or improvements you've made. You can also use online valuation tools, such as the Boat Trader Price Checker Tool, to get an estimate of your boat's value. Remember, pricing your boat competitively will increase your chances of a quick sale.

Responding to Inquiries

Once your listing is live, be prepared to respond promptly to any inquiries or messages from potential buyers. Engage with them politely and professionally, providing additional information or answering any questions they may have. Be transparent and honest in your communication to build trust and increase the likelihood of a successful sale.

Negotiating and Closing the Deal

Understand basic negotiation tactics and be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. Consider the lowest price you are willing to accept and be flexible within a reasonable range. Ensure you have discussed and agreed upon payment methods and transfer of ownership before finalizing the sale. Remember to keep all communication open and transparent to build trust and close the deal successfully.

Utilizing Facebook Groups

In addition to Facebook Marketplace, consider joining and networking in relevant boating groups on Facebook. These groups provide a platform to connect with fellow boaters and enthusiasts, allowing you to establish relationships and gain credibility within the boating community. By actively participating in these groups, you can increase your reach and visibility, potentially attracting more interested buyers.

Local dealer websites

One such dealer is Boat Dynasty, which is conveniently located on the water, making sea trials very easy. They have lots of exposure being on US1 Federal Highway, with thousands of cars passing by daily. They offer two great options:

• They can sell your boat and maximise your return.
• They can buy your boat.

The selling process can be overwhelming, so Boat Dynasty makes it easy and hassle-free. They will provide daily exposure to their shoppers, create online listings and paid advertisements, provide professional showings and sea trials, and manage all the paperwork, payoffs, and title transfers. They also handle the funding and get you paid.

Another option is BoatCrazy.com, a premier boat listing site with boats for sale by owner and dealers. Boat dealers nationwide contribute real-time inventory for sale near you. Boat owners can easily list their boats for sale with a one-time low fee to generate sales leads on BoatCrazy. These For Sale By Owner listings are also exported to Facebook Marketplace to drive even more traffic to your listing.

Boat Trader is another great option to sell your boat. It is the #1 marketplace in the US, with the largest network of boat buyers. It offers a simple solution to sell your boat in one place with a straightforward process that involves only an initial listing fee. You can easily build your listing, select a package that fits your budget and needs, and then add your photos and videos.

If you are looking to sell locally, you can also try searching for local dealers in your area and contacting them to see if they can help sell your boat.

Classified ad websites

• Choose the right website: Popular options include Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, OfferUp, and The Hull Truth. Consider using multiple websites to cast a wider net.
• Create a detailed advertisement: Provide as many details about the boat as possible, including exact specifications, upgrades, equipment, and maintenance records. Ensure your ad is well-written, with no typos or grammatical errors.
• Include high-quality photos: Take clear, detailed photos of your boat from multiple angles, both on land and in the water. Consider taking a video walkthrough as well.
• Price your boat competitively: Use online resources like Boat Trader's price checker tool or NADAGuides to determine a fair price for your boat. Be open to negotiation.
• Interact with potential buyers: Respond promptly and politely to inquiries, and be honest and upfront about the boat's condition.
• Handle the paperwork: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, such as the boat's title, registration, and maintenance records. Be prepared to transfer ownership of the trailer separately if applicable.
• Be cautious: When meeting potential buyers, take precautions to ensure your personal and financial safety. Consider having a friend or family member present during inspections and test drives.

By following these steps, you can effectively use classified ad websites to sell your boat and find a buyer who will appreciate it as much as you did!

Boat listing services

There are several boat listing services that can help you sell your boat. Here are some options to consider:

• Boat Trader: This is a popular online boating marketplace that offers a simple solution to sell your boat. You can create a listing by entering your boat information and uploading photos. Boat Trader has a large network of boat buyers, with millions of potential buyers at your fingertips. They charge an upfront listing fee with no hidden fees, and you keep all the cash from the sale.
• MoneyForYourBoat.com: This website offers to buy your boat directly, providing a hassle-free and quick sale. They accept boats in any condition and handle all the paperwork. You can request a quote, and they will appraise your boat and make a cash offer.
• Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace is a free online platform where you can sell your boat. It has a large user base and filters out users and posts, making it a safer option than some other free sites.
• Craigslist: Craigslist is a longstanding and ubiquitous classified ad website that is free to use and does not require membership or an app to advertise. However, it has a lot of competition and can be challenging to search.
• OfferUp: This is a popular app for buying and selling boats, depending on your area. It offers a convenient platform to connect with potential buyers.
• Autotrader: Autotrader has a boat section where you can list your boat for sale.
• YachtWorld: YachtWorld is a website where you can list your boat for sale, but you will need to go through a broker and pay a brokerage fee.

When choosing a boat listing service, consider the reach of the platform, the fees involved, and the convenience of the selling process. Additionally, casting a broad net by using multiple platforms can increase your chances of finding a buyer quickly.

Frequently asked questions