European sailboat cruising offers the option of travel between a variety of ports and countries. Yacht charter company Sailing Europe notes that European sailing grounds include Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey. Each country offers ports with varied attractions. When choosing a boat to sail these waters, Sailing Europe notes that although varied sailboats can handle anticipated wind and weather conditions, the crew’s accommodation and comfort needs are also important considerations.
Determine European cruising boat requirements. Yacht designer Bruce Roberts-Goodson stresses that European sailing requires a boat with different characteristics than an offshore passage-making vessel. For example, you should easily be able to raise and lower the boat’s mast for travel under bridges and through canals. The boat should accommodate mast cradles to be constructed at the bow and stern. When the mast is stowed for travel, there should be very little overhang to interfere with other boats or docks.
Meet with a knowledgeable yacht broker. Consult with a yacht broker affiliated with the Yacht Brokers Association of America, or YBAA. YBAA brokers demonstrate a commitment to ethical behavior and industry knowledge. Select a YBAA broker in your region. Present a list of desired cruising sailboat attributes, plus a price and size range. Your broker searches other yacht brokerages’ listings in the United States and Europe, and compiles a list of potential candidates. Your broker calls the yachts' listing brokers for detailed information and showing instructions. This search phase can take considerable time.
Present an offer on a cruising sailboat. Work with your broker to design an offer on a boat that meets your needs. Offers are prepared on a standard YBAA Purchase and Sale Agreement, and contain price and time line details. Many offers include clauses for a pre-purchase condition survey and sea trial. Your broker works with the listing broker to negotiate an agreement beneficial to both parties. At that time, you’ll be expected to submit a deposit to be held in escrow pending the deal’s completion.
Hire a surveyor to perform the condition survey. Locate a professional yacht surveyor to perform a detailed examination of the sailboat. Your broker supplies a list of recommended surveyors in your area, and you must select one to perform the survey (see Resources section of this article). The surveyor examines the boat’s hull, rigging, mechanical and electrical systems, and interior. He may also evaluate the engine, or can select a specialized engine surveyor to perform those duties. The surveyor writes up a full report that highlights any defects or problems needing resolution.
Complete a captain-conducted sea trial. Sea trials provide an opportunity to evaluate the boat’s engine and handling capabilities under power. These trips are generally under an hour in length, and include the buyer, both brokers and the surveyor. You or your broker can hire a licensed United States Coast Guard captain to command the boat for the sea trial. Licensed captains provide the advantages of verifiable expertise and impartiality.
Finalize your cruising sailboat purchase. Once the survey and sea trial have been completed, your broker will evaluate the findings, and may recommend modifications to the purchase contract. If all negotiations are satisfactorily completed, you’ll complete the payment and take possession of the boat. At that time, you can choose to leave the vessel at its current location, or arrange transport to a local marina.
