Great fun for little money
The virtual shelves in the online portals for used boats are slowly filling up again, and prices also seem to be calming down. During the coronavirus pandemic, it wasn't just the shipyards that were selling their new boats like hotcakes; some of the oldies for sale were also changing hands at top prices. The main thing was to get out on the water and enjoy some residual freedom. Now the first new owners seem to be running out of desire to keep the ship permanently. Either the construction site was too big and they didn't even make it onto the water, or the fixed and follow-up costs of winter storage and maintenance as well as the labour required were underestimated. Other reasons may also play a role.
This is good news for prospective buyers with a small budget at a time when prices for new boats are going through the roof. But what is the market for used boats actually offering at the moment? We took a closer look at the low-budget sector at around 10,000 euros and below. The expert Uwe Gräfer was on hand to help us work out the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates. As even a supposedly attractive and inexpensive boat can turn out to be a labour-intensive cost trap, prospective buyers should always take enough time for the inspection. And it is not only money that plays a role, but of course also the safe operating condition of the boat. After all, you don't want the delivery trip to end in disaster.
They do exist: lovingly maintained gems that are well equipped and ready to sail for little money. Their owners are often not interested in maximising the sales profit, but rather want the boat to end up in good hands. Second-hand boats that can be put back on the water quickly with a little craftsmanship are then available. And there are long-term craft projects. Seek and ye shall find!
Browse the net: European online portals for used boats
- yacht.de/boat24.com (Switzerland, Europe-wide): Thanks to our co-operation with YACHT, the classifieds section of our magazine can also be found here
- Classifieds.com (Germany, Europe-wide): The classifieds portal has long since blossomed into an important marketplace for used boats
- boot24.com (Germany, Europe-wide): Well-sorted national offer with numerous search criteria
- yachtworld.com (England, Europe-wide): On this page, the UK market is also well represented in addition to the pan-European offering
- blocket.se (Sweden): The classified ad portal is similar to the local Ebay and reflects the Swedish market quite well
- batagent.se (Sweden, Scandinavia): The Swedish site is another good search option for used boats from Scandinavia
- scanboat.com (Denmark, Northern Germany): Here you can find Danish boats as well as numerous used boats from northern Germany
- botentekoop.com (Holland): The portal advertises the widest reach in the Netherlands. Offers from private individuals and dealers
- devalk.nl (Holland, Europe-wide): The Dutch broker has offices throughout Europe and offers a nationwide range of used boats
- inautia.de (Italy, France, Spain): On the German-speaking side, the offer from the Mediterranean region is well represented
- fky.org (classic, national): If you are thinking of buying a classic yacht, you will find the best overview of what is on offer here
Expertise: The assessment of an expert is worthwhile
The lower the price for used boats, the higher the inhibition threshold for using a paid surveyor. Depending on the size of the boat, the amount of work involved in the inspection and the cost of travelling, you can expect to pay between 500 and 1,500 euros. In view of the comparatively low acquisition costs in the entry-level class, scepticism is understandable. However, if repairs are subsequently required, the costs can skyrocket significantly. An experienced surveyor can not only identify potential weak points and damage, but also provide tips on how to rectify them and estimate the likely subsequent costs. Surveyors for yachts and boats can be found via the industry association DBSV or via vbsev.de.
We were joined by Uwe Gräfer, who has been sailing since he was a child and has been working as a surveyor since 2011. He is the managing partner of HSG Hanse Sportboot-Gutachter GmbH, based in Hamburg. A total of four experts with extensive expertise work for the company throughout northern Germany. Purchase consultations and used boat inspections are carried out throughout Europe. Damage appraisals are prepared for numerous hull insurance companies for used boats.
Video assessment possible
In suitable cases, the surveyors work with the Remox video system under licence from TÜV Nord. The system enables a remote assessment in 5K quality via the mobile phone of a person on board the boat to be inspected. In many cases, Remox can provide a good assessment of the condition of a yacht without travelling costs. The costs depend on the time required. As a rule, you can expect to pay around 300 euros (sportboot-gutachter.de).
Initial inspection: What can I check myself?
It is best to inspect the boat on land and in the water before buying. Important: Take enough time and don't let the seller put you under pressure. Obtain as much information as possible about the type of boat beforehand. In addition to tests of new boats, YACHT also regularly provides used boat tests, some of which are available online at yacht.com are available. Information can also be found in class associations, forums or on Facebook. Target owners of this boat class, as they usually have a high level of practical experience.
What do I take with me on the tour?
In addition to the advertisement/exposé, notebook, camera/smartphone and a powerful torch, it is always worth taking along an expert companion
Underwater hull
Keel (rust, deformations indicating damage, cracks in the keel-hull connection), antifouling condition, bubbles indicating osmosis, rudder blade (cracks, bubbles, play in the bearings), drive (corrosion, play in the shaft/folding propeller, condition of the anodes, age of the sleeve on the saildrive). Attention: In the case of lifting keels and centreboard boats, an inspection of the keel/ centreboard and the mechanics is only possible in the crane!
Hull
Gelcoat/paint condition, deformations, indications of repairs, hull-deck connection and rubbing strake condition
Deck
Hairline cracks around the fittings? Function of winches and fittings. Mast straight? Deck soft? Jib and shroud tensioners without corrosion or deformation? Is the mast foot pressed into the deck? Scratched windows or hatch glass, seals brittle?
Below deck
Odour, mould/spill, evidence of leaks, condition of upholstery, condition of wooden fittings, cracks in the bilge area, keel bolts
Electrics/electronics
Visual inspection of batteries, their installation and connections, functional check of consumers
Gas system
Age of hoses and pressure regulators, acceptance in accordance with G 608 (DVGW - German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water)
Test drive
Engine starting behaviour (cold start), vibrations, noise, exhaust gas colouring, gearbox shiftability, achievement of rated rpm and fuselage speed, tightness of propeller shaft. Leaks after test drive? Do all fittings work? Condition of the sails (stance, repair points, spak), noises below deck
Ten sample adverts for used boats around 10,000 euros
Etap 22 (1,900 euros)
Thanks to the foaming between the inner and outer shell, the Belgian forecastle is unsinkable and also has good thermal and acoustic insulation. According to expert Gräfer, the boat, which was built in 1977, is in a satisfactory overall condition. The rudder blade draws water and needs to be repaired, and the shroud tensioners are also in need of replacement. In return, this Etap offers a furling jib system, lazy bag, sprayhood and a newer shaft engine with 7 hp and electric starter. A matching trailer can also be purchased for €1,000. Gräfer recommends having the lifting keel mechanism checked before purchasing. Conclusion: a safe, trailerable and very affordable entry-level boat that can be made ready for sea again with comparatively little effort.
boat24.com (Advert ID: 565348)
Profile
- Shipyard: Etap Yachting
- Designer: E.G. van de Stadt
- Dimensions: 6.66 x 2.33 m
- Built: 1972-1982
- Quantity: approx. 1,500
- Used price: approx. 2,000-7,000 €
Comparable used boats are Neptun 22, Neptun 23, Dehlya 22, Sunbeam 22, Beneteau First 211, Varianta 65
Albin Express (12,500 euros)
The sporty small cruiser is considered the popular regatta boat par excellence in Scandinavia and also has a large fan base on the German Baltic coast. It is fast, affordable and suitable for cruising. This 1979 model underwent a complete refit in 2016 and makes a very well-kept impression. The interior is functionally equipped and offers four berths and a sliding pantry. The boat comes with a mainsail, genoa and spinnaker as well as a 5 hp outboard motor. The matching trailer is available for an additional 3,000 euros. Conclusion: top value for money - the boat won't be sitting in the yard for long.
Classifieds.com (ID: 2650322375)
Profile
- Shipyard: Albin Marin
- Designer: Peter Norlin
- Dimensions: 7.77 x 2.50 m
- Built: from 1978
- Quantity: approx. 2,000
- Used price: approx. 10,000-15,000 €
Comparable used boats are X 79, H-Boat, Hanse 291, Shark 24, J/24
Maxi Magic (9,900 euros)
The small deck superstructure looks almost futuristic with its all-round black windows. The sailing characteristics are described as solid and fast. Built in 1984, the ship offers a large cockpit and tidy deck areas. The Maxi is equipped with a self-tacking jib and kicker. Last autumn, the underwater hull was rebuilt and new windows were installed. The spacious interior was also refreshed, although the upholstery is worth replacing according to the expert. The saildrive is corroded, and as the engine was difficult to access, the entire drive system was to be inspected and tested. Conclusion: If the engine runs smoothly, then you get a cool boat that is suitable for single-handed use for a good price.
boat24.com (Advert ID: 557288)
Profile
- Shipyard: Maxi Yachts
- Designer: Pelle Petterson
- Dimensions: 8.45 x 2.84 m
- Built: 1984-1986
- Quantity: approx. 250
- Used price: approx. 10,000-15,000 €
Comparable used boats are Hanse 291, H-Boat, Albin Express, Midget 26
H-Boat (6,900 euros)
The H-Boat from Nordic Boats was built in 1980 and is a popular regatta boat with a yardstick of 106. However, it is not only capable of sporty performance, but is also suitable for cruising - even if the accommodation is more of a camping standard. High seaworthiness, timeless design and the option to change sailing areas by trailer round off the overall package. The mast and running rigging were renewed at the shipyard in 2016 and the hull is dry. However, the upholstery and paintwork are in need of an overhaul. Conclusion: a fair price for a beautiful and fast boat.
boat24.com (Display ID: 548560)
Profile
- Shipyard: various
- Designer: Hans Groop
- Dimensions: 8.28 x 2.18 m
- Built: from 1967
- Quantity: Well over 5,000
- Used price: approx. 6,000-18,000 €
Comparable used boats are Albin Express, Hanse 291, Folkeboot, IF Marieholm, Maxi Magic
Sabre 27 (1,990 euros)
When this type of boat was designed in 1969, the aim was to build a family cruiser that could be financed on an average salary. The boat offers plenty of deck space for its size and a surprisingly large interior. As it is easy to handle and the thick GRP laminate typical of the time can withstand many an impact, the Sabre is also well suited as a beginner's boat. The fact that this very boat, built in 1974, is now available almost as a gift is not only due to its age and the target group of the time, but also to the dilapidated condition of the interior. Basically, a complete refurbishment is needed to restore this boat to a liveable condition. However, with a lot of time and craftsmanship, the boat could be saved. Conclusion: just right for someone who is looking for an ambitious craft project and wants to breathe new life into this rock-solid boat. Everyone else should keep their hands off it.
boat24.com (Advert ID: 484968)
Profile
- Shipyard: Marine Construction Ltd (UK)
- Designer: Alan F. Hill
- Dimensions: 8.23 x 2.80 m
- Built: from 1969-1979
- Quantity: approx. 400
- Used price: approx. 2,000-10,000 €
Comparable used boats are Bandholm 27, Bianca 27, Contest 27, Midget 26
LM pointed gate (9,900 euros)
Occasionally, a lovingly maintained rarity such as this Danish pointed gate can be found on the used boat market. And at an attractive price. The cute long keeler, built in 1978, offers 180 centimetres of headroom in the saloon and is in good condition and ready to sail. The ship was completely painted three years ago and is equipped with a new battery and compass as well as fresh winches and sails. A furling system has also been installed.
The only downer: the engine. According to the owner, the 27 hp Volvo Penta engine runs perfectly, but how long it will continue to do so is anyone's guess. A repair or even a replacement could therefore be on the cards in the future. Conclusion: a pearl whose condition appears to be outstanding for its age. The high seaworthiness in strong winds is typical of a long keeler. Even with the old engine, the ship is worth the money - but it also requires a corresponding amount of work to keep it in such good condition.
boat24.com (Advert ID: 542018)
Profile
- Shipyard: LM glass fibre AS
- Designer: unknown
- Dimensions: 6.80 x 3.50 m
- Built: 1978
- Quantity: Individual construction
- Used price: 9.900 €
Comparable used boats are Laurin Koster L 22, Lynæs 18, Spækhugger, Storfidra 25
Dixie 27 (12,500 euros)
The Swede is known for her excellent sailing characteristics and her cosy and spacious interior. As this model was sold as a self-build, there are enormous differences in the quality of the interior. This boat, built in 1978, impresses with its high-quality teak furniture, L-shaped sofa and longitudinal pantry. In addition to the forward berth, there is also a full-width berth under the cockpit. This is made possible by a curiosity: the small 8 hp Yanmar engine was installed in the foredeck. To create some air in the aft berth, there is a box-like superstructure in the centre of the cockpit, which significantly restricts freedom of movement there. The boat has been little used in recent years and comes with five sails, some of which are in very good condition. Conclusion: The Dixie 27 sails fast and is specially designed. The interior is individual and timelessly beautiful, the equipment is good.
Profile
- Shipyard: CN Marine
- Designer: Bernt Andersson
- Dimensions: 8.28 x 2.82 m
- Built: from 1976-1982
- Quantity: approx. 300
- Used price: approx. 8,000-14,000 €
Comparable used boats are Hiddensee, Albin Express, Dufour Arpège, Midget 26
Pretty 21 (9,500 euros)
This small cruising boat was built in 1993 and has correspondingly modern lines. Thanks to the centreboard, it can also be used in shallower waters and is easy to trailer. The hull makes a good impression, is dry and was polished above the waterline in 2023, while the underwater hull was given a fresh coat of antifouling. Equipped with a furling genoa and furling system, the Pretty is also well suited for solo sailing. However, some repair work is required in the interior, as moisture has led to the formation of sparks and the wooden fittings need to be worked on in some places. The centreboard is heavily rusted and needs a thorough inspection according to the surveyor. Conclusion: The Pretty is well suited as a daysailer or for a weekend on an inland waterway, but needs some cosmetic repairs to the interior.
boat24.com (Advert ID: 534941)
Profile
- Shipyard: unknown
- Designer: unknown
- Dimensions: 6.20 x 2.45 m
- Built: 1993
- Quantity: unknown
- Used price: approx. 8,000-12,000 €
Comparable used boats are Dehler Sprinta Sport, Jeanneau Sun Way 21, Neptun 22, Hai 710, Sunbeam 22
Jeanneau Sangria (8,000 euros)
Jeanneau's bestseller from the seventies is known for its solid construction and good sailing characteristics. This model from 1975 was given a high-quality refit in 1988: the interior was completely refitted in mahogany and the deck was also fitted with teak. Despite its age, the boat is in a very good and well-kept condition. Equipped with main, jib, genoa and spinnaker as well as other amenities such as heating, autopilot and cake stand. Conclusion: A well-maintained GRP classic that is a sight to behold and is a pleasure to sail and live on.
boat24.com (Display ID: 559609)
Profile
- Shipyard: Jeanneau
- Designer: Philippe Harlé
- Dimensions: 7.62 x 2.75 m
- Built: from 1969-1982
- Quantity: approx. 2,150
- Used price: approx. 3,000-10,000 €
Comparable used boats are Dufour Arpège, Bandholm 27, Sirius 26, Midget 26, Dehlya 25
Bandholm 27 (5,900 euros)
The Danish sea cruiser was once categorised as a spacious family ship, even if today's standards have shifted. The high-quality construction, the good sailing characteristics and especially the beautiful woodwork in the interior are still impressive. However, there can be major differences in quality here, as some ships were also sold for self-construction. This 1978 model, which is only in second hand, was fitted with a new engine in 2001 and is equipped with a furling jib and genoa as well as a sprayhood and cake stand. It also has a mainsail recovery system and a tiller pilot. However, due to a maintenance backlog in recent years, it requires some repair and improvement work, such as new window seals or sea valves. Conclusion: an inexpensive entry-level boat for single or double-handed crews with manual dexterity.
boat24.com (Display ID: 548160)
Profile
- Shipyard: Bandholm
- Designer: Knud Olsen
- Dimensions: 8.30 x 2.80 m
- Built: from 1977
- Quantity: approx. 325
- Used price: approx. 5,000-15,000 €
Comparable used boats are Dufour Arpège, Bandholm 27, Sirius 26, Midget 26, Dehlya 25
