Moving a yacht or boat, be it a sailing yacht or power boat is not a regular job by any means. The process is a delicate one and one which does require a good deal of planning.
First off, the size of your vessel will often dictate the type of service most appropriate. Smaller boats tend to be transported by road on a trailer as this can be the quickest and cheapest option.
However, if you have a large boat, above 26ft or so, you may find that transport by road is a particularly costly and difficult process. Such large loads generally require permits from government and sometimes even a police escort. That is why sea yacht delivery is generally preferred. You can hire a qualified yacht delivery skipper to deliver your boat from A-B. When opting for a sea delivery, it is very important that you check the skipper’s and indeed crew’s experience levels and documentation. They should be accredited by the RYA and carry the correct licenses and insurance cover for your vessel. Insist upon references and carry out background checks prior to agreeing a price.
Properly preparing your boat transport is crucial if you want to help guarantee it arrives at its destination in the same condition it left. Before boat transport, it is advisable to fully wash down the vessel and hull so that you can see all the areas and record any pre-existing damage. Make sure to take time-stamped photos as these can be used later as evidence should any problems arise.
Before releasing your yacht to a boat delivery company, you should have it surveyed by a licensed marine surveyor. They will be able to assess whether or not there any major issues which could arise by transporting the boat either by sea or road.
If you need to dis-assemble your yacht before transport, for example dropping the mast on a sail boat, make notes of what you are doing as it will make re-assembly far easier at the destination.
Make sure that you have done the following in advance to pick-up day:
- Any loose gear stored below or removed from vessel altogether
- All hatches should be locked shut, if not possible, these should be secured by taping them up
- Ensure your gas supply is switched off
Additionally for road deliveries
- Ensure that all fuel and water tanks are empty
- For road deliveries batteries on board need to be disconnected
- All valuable electronics should be removed
- Take the anchors below deck and secure them with padding
When taking delivery of your yacht, be sure to thoroughly check all areas of the boat. Do not sign anything to accept the delivery until you have carried out a thorough check of the hull, decks, rigging and indeed every aspect. Should there be any new damage, the boat transport company will have the necessary insurance cover to rectify the issues.