Selling your boat is a big step — and a clean, well-presented one will always attract more attention and sell faster. Follow these simple guidelines to make sure your boat stands out and achieves its maximum value.

“You only have one chance to make a first impression.”

Remove everything that’s not included in the sale. Buyers don’t like cluttered, messy boats — it makes them feel like the vessel (and engine) hasn’t been cared for.

Experience shows that ‘stuff aboard’ makes boats look smaller and gives buyers doubts about maintenance. Keep it clean, simple and spacious.

Once the clutter’s gone, it’s time for a proper clean. Every surface benefits from attention — even well-maintained boats.

• Polish the hull to bring out the shine
• Buff stainless fittings and replace any rusty screws
• Clean carpets, wash cushion covers, and remove mildew stains
• Wipe down the galley, lockers and engine bay
• Make windows, portlights and dashboards spotless

If you don’t have the time, a good wash and valet (around £500 for a 25ft boat) will more than pay for itself in presentation and price.

Service your boat and trailer before listing and reapply antifoul if needed. Keep the receipts — they’re proof of care and give buyers confidence.

A freshly serviced boat removes one of the biggest buyer objections: “What will I need to spend to get it on the water?” The less a buyer thinks they’ll need to spend, the less they’ll feel the need to discount your asking price.

Every buyer will likely commission a pre-purchase inspection and sea trial by a marine professional. Even if you disclose known issues, the surveyor will check everything.

Be honest and upfront — it’s always cheaper than trying to hide something that will be found anyway.

Buyers are smart and surveyors are thorough. Disclose known issues early, and let your broker guide you on what’s worth fixing or leaving as-is. Honest presentation saves time, money and stress for everyone.

Before listing, gather everything a buyer will want to see:

• Proof of ownership (receipt of purchase)
• Registration for vessel and/or trailer
• Service, repair and maintenance receipts
• Owner’s manuals and documentation
• Current insurance or certificate of currency
• Complete set of engine and cabin keys

Having this ready from day one shows buyers your boat has been well looked after.

We all want the best possible price — but overpricing can hurt you. Boats that sit on the market too long start to look stale, and buyers move on.

Online listings only show asking prices, not sold prices. That’s where we come in — Total Boat Sales use real North Wales market data and sold-boat experience to give you an honest, accurate valuation.

A fairly priced boat gets more enquiries, more viewings, and often a better final offer.