What To Look For On A Sea Trial: A Checklist

Dec 9, 2020Articles

Jolly Mon Sea Trial Checklist

What is a sea trial?

A sea trial is when you take a boat you are seriously interested in purchasing on a test run on the water. When participating in your sea trial, you want to use the boat the same way you plan to use it once you own it, taking note of how the boat performs in this environment. Sea trials should only be done once you have narrowed down all your options and have found the boat that you are likely to be purchasing, and as a result, have an offer and deposit in place.

How does a sea trial work?

So you know what a sea trial is, but how does a sea trial work? During a sea trial, you take the boat out on the water and use it under similar conditions that you would on a typical boat day on your new vessel, such as manoeuvring on different water conditions or taking the boat out at various speeds. While taking out a boat you are planning on purchasing is an exciting experience, it’s important not to get caught up in the thrill of the sea trial; be sure to focus on how the boat is performing. Often on sea trials buyers will hire a marine surveyor to accompany both them and their broker on the sea trial so they have trained experts helping identify any potential concerns. While onboard, however, the surveyor will typically only be concerned with the performance of the engine(s) and the soundness of the structure.

 

80' Ocean Shipyard Taboo

Who pays for a sea trial?

Generally, it is the seller’s option to choose a skipper to undertake the sea trial. They also pay for the preparation of the vessel for the sea trial, as well as the operation of the sea trial.

Is a sea trial necessary?

Sea trials are an important part of the boat buying process, and should only be skipped in special circumstances when buying a used vessel, as they can help alert you to any concerns that may otherwise have been overlooked, had the boat not been splashed, particularly if it had previously been on the hard. Even in the best-case scenario, when a vessel raises no red flags, it’s still a great way to get a feel for how your new boat will ride in the water.

What should you look for during a sea trial; A sea trial checklist

Before you head out:

This is a great time to take note of all visual aspects of the boat before you head out to sea.

  • Exterior: You should take this opportunity to look for any previously unnoted surface defects, such as scratches, chips, cracks, or corrosion.
  • Interior: Examine the interior with the same amount of care, looking at any of the wooden interior or upholstery for unnoted damage, such as scratches, tears, or chips.
  • Moving components: Test the functionality of the boat elements; do the windows and doors open easily? Are safety mountings secure? Are there any loose wires?

55 Custom Built Sailboat Samsara-01

    On the water:

    So how do you sea trial a boat? While on the water, take this opportunity to be both the passenger and the driver, providing you have boating experience. Take note of your visibility, both your forward vision, and whether obstructed by your crew or passengers. Is there a distracting glare from the windshield? Can you see the dashboard properly?

    Listen to the engine as it starts- Does it start smoothly and quietly, or does it rattle and knock? Bring the boat to cruising speed and test the steering, performing right and left turns, listening for vibrations and rattles as the boat moves, especially over wake on open water. The effect of rough water can’t be eliminated, but a well-designed hull will carve confidently through wakes while limiting any serious bumps from disturbing passengers. At no-wake speeds, center the wheel and note how well the boat keeps its line.

    Act as a passenger and sit in various seats throughout the boat. If there is a forward cockpit, does it offer security to passengers? How comfortable is the main cockpit, is it roomy enough for how many adults you plan to host? What are you planning on using your new boat for- is the layout right for socializing or is it more suited to fishing? As a passenger, make sure you feel comfortable at speeds and during turns without having to constantly reach for handholds.

    While the aim is to simulate situations similar to real-world usage during a sea trial, keep in mind that the performance may be affected during the lightly loaded test ride. On a typical day that you use your boat, you’re probably going to pack it with gear, guests, or coolers, and that weight will give way to a different performance. 

    Other factors to consider:

    • How is the stowage on the vessel- is it enough for your needs?
    • Is there adequate seating for your typical usage?
    • Manoeuvrability when on board- can you safely get around when underway?
    • How are the electronics, do all that expect to work turn on?

    Buying a used powerboat, catamaran, sailing boat or center console is an exciting experience, but make sure you get a thorough evaluation so you have no surprises once in your possession. While a sea trial on a yacht isn’t necessary, it is a recommended step in the boat-buying process. Ready to find your next boat or looking to upgrade your vessel? Contact one of our brokers today to start the process.

    At BVI Yacht Sales we cater to everyone, we have a range of used boats for sale for every buyer in the market, from ready to sail away today yachts, to project catamarans- we are committed to finding you the perfect yacht of your dreams, at a fraction of the cost of a new vessel. We are also committed to all our sellers who have wisely decided to list their yacht with us- we continue to tirelessly marketing your used yachts for sale across multiple platforms, ensuring we find the perfect buyer for you. If you’re considering selling your yacht, contact us today for a free, no obligation valuation – there’s a reason we consistently top the market for Caribbean yacht sales. We can be reached through email at [email protected] or you can contact any of our brokers directly here!
    SEND US A MESSAGE

    7 + 11 =

    Buying a Boat During The Coronavirus Pandemic

    Is buying a boat in the pandemic a good idea? What would you say if we told you that right now, in the middle of this Coronavirus pandemic, is a great time to be looking at buying your dream yacht? We may be a yacht brokerage, but our philosophy is based on complete...

    Boat sales rise despite the Coronavirus pandemic

    Boat sales have increased during the pandemic! Despite the pandemic, interest in boating has been growing steadily. Once stay-at-home orders started to be relaxed, buyers started frantically trying to buy up anything that floats, from powerboats, to sailboats, to...

    BVI Yacht Sales Merges With Southern Trades Brokerage!

    From July, Bvi yacht sales has merged with southern trades brokerage here in the bvi! While Southern Trades still operates as a yacht management business, the Southern Trades brokerage has officially merged with BVI Yacht Sales, operating under the BVI Yacht Sales...

    Sell a Caribbean Yacht – How to Prepare

    Embarking on the journey to sell a Caribbean yacht is no small feat. It's a decision laden with emotion, anticipation, and a touch of uncertainty. With a Caribbean yacht broker by your side, you're equipped with a trusted partner to navigate the intricacies of the...

    Fully Vaccinated? No More Quarantine!

    The Government of the BVI has decided that fully vaccinated travellers will no longer have to quarantine. In a statement on June 10th, 2021, the minister of health and social development, Carvin Malone, stated that fully vaccinated travellers will no longer be...

    Why You Should Use A Yacht Broker

    why you should use a yacht broker (and why it should be us) If the boat you're wanting to buy or sell is currently based in the Caribbean, the real question to be asking is why shouldn't you list with BVI Yacht Sales. The negative impact of the pandemic on the world...

    BVI Coronavirus Entry Requirements Released

    BVI Coronavirus entry guidelines and protocols have been released ahead of the December 1st reopening! On the 10th November 2020, 3 weeks before the BVI officially reopens to tourists, the Government of the Virgin Islands have released a comprehensive set of entry...

    How to Sell a Boat in the BVI

    We're Committed to Sell Your BVI Yacht BVI Yacht Sales Agreement As the boat owner, you sign a Central Listing Agreement nominating BVI Yacht Sales as your Central Listing Agent. In return for your full commitment to us, your boat will receive our very best marketing...

    The Informative Brokers December 2019

    We have started the season as we mean to go on with a record breaking October so a huge well done to all the Brokers at BVI Yacht Sales for all of your hard work! We are getting busier by the minute with new listings going up as well as more and more boats being sold,...

    The BVI Releases New Covid Entry Requirements

    The Government of the BVI has released new 2021 Coronavirus entry requirements for fully vaccinated travellers In a cabinet meeting on April 23rd, 2021, the Government of the BVI made the following adjustments to the Covid-19 entry protocols regarding fully vaccinated...

    Caribbean Yacht Listing – Marketing and Negotiation

    Dive into the process from listing approval to global marketing, handling inquiries, and final negotiations.

    The U.S. Virgin Islands are officially open to tourists!

    It's official- as of june 1st the u.s. virgin islands are open to tourists! Following months of lock-downs, curfews and closed borders, our American partner islands are finally re-opened to tourists! There are new rules in place for hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars,...

    Alia Yacht for Sale: Jalaure Shines in Prestigious Caribbean Magazine

    We're excited to share that Jalaure, a standout Alia Yacht for Sale has been prominently featured in a prestigious BVI yachting magazine. This spotlight is a proud moment for us as the listing broker, highlighting the exceptional allure of this 2020 Alia 164 Custom...

    The BVI is Reopening!

    The BVI is reopening to international visitors! For the first time since late March, the BVI will be reopening it's borders to tourists and international visitors starting December 1st, 2020! Premier Fahie recently made the announcement during a September 24th press...

    Subscribe for updates on the latest BVI Yacht Sales price reductions, offers, and new listings.

    Contact BVI Yacht Sales

    Nanny Cay, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
    Monday to Friday | 9:00am - 5:00pm AST