Preparation & Survey Readiness
How to Prepare Your Boat for Sale
A clean, well-presented boat creates an immediate emotional connection with buyers. Follow these proven steps to ensure your vessel looks its absolute best and inspires confidence from the moment someone steps aboard.
Before presenting your boat online, we highly recommend completing these essential preparation steps. Thoughtful staging and meticulous readiness elevate your vessel's appeal, attract more discerning buyers, and greatly enhance the likelihood of receiving a strong offer after showings.
The most valuable investment you can make before listing your boat is a full wax and polish. A spotless, glossy exterior instantly signals care and quality. When buyers walk up to a boat that shines, it sets a positive tone for the entire showing.
Just as you wouldn't show your boat without a thorough cleaning, the same high standard applies to the bilges. They should be spotless and completely odor-free. Most professionals who handle waxing and polishing also offer bilge cleaning, and if not, consider hiring a dedicated detailer to ensure the bilges are restored to pristine condition.
Remove Personal Belongings
Buyers need to be able to imagine their life on board. Too many personal items make the space feel occupied.
Clear & Stage the Galley
A clutter-free galley feels larger, cleaner, and more inviting.
Clear Countertops
- • Remove appliances from surfaces
- • Store essentials in cupboards
- • Keep lockers neat and organized
Add Finishing Touches
- • Small plant or bowl of fresh fruit
- • Tasteful table setting for two
- • Placemats, crystal glasses, faux florals
Refresh Sleeping Quarters
Make staterooms feel like a comfortable retreat.
Deep Clean the Heads & Showers
A spotless head is essential—odors are deal-breakers.
- • Thoroughly clean toilet, shower, sink, and all surfaces until they shine
- • Eliminate odors by emptying and treating the holding tank
- • Add fresh hand towels and a neatly staged new roll of toilet paper
Make Surfaces Shine
Small details reinforce the impression of proper maintenance.
Remember: Boating is an emotional purchase—clean, fresh-smelling interiors build buyer confidence.
Organize the Hull & Deck
Buyers will inspect every corner. Present the exterior with the same care as the interior.
Deck Presentation
- • Clean fenders (especially lower ends)
- • Keep decks clutter-free
- • Stow every item correctly
Engine Room
- • Keep spotlessly clean
- • A messy space signals neglect
- • Wipe down all surfaces
Fix known issues before the survey. It protects your deal and strengthens buyer confidence. If you have service records, present them neatly—they show pride of ownership.
Key items to review:
Present the vessel as though it's ready to leave the dock.
After the tour, give buyers a few private moments to reflect.
Transparency builds trust—answer honestly and let the boat speak for itself.
Before Offer
Do not start engines until you have an accepted written offer with deposit
Before Sea Trial
1-2 days prior, confirm smooth engine starts with no smoke or hesitation
Survey Day
Wait for the surveyor's request before starting the engines
Ready to Present Your Vessel?
Thoughtful preparation transforms your boat from a listing into an experience. When buyers step aboard a well-staged vessel, they don't just see a boat—they see their future.
Prepared boats feel honest. Honest boats sell.