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Buy a Catamaran or Sailboat in the Caribbean

Professional buyer support for boats in the Virgin Islands and wider Caribbean

In Two Minutes
  • We represent your interests in negotiations and protect you from common pitfalls
  • We coordinate surveys, sea trials, and review all findings with you
  • Escrow protection ensures funds are secure until all conditions are met
  • Buyer agent services are often paid by the seller as part of commission

Who This Is For

  • First-time boat buyers unfamiliar with Caribbean markets and procedures
  • International buyers purchasing from abroad
  • Buyers who want professional representation during negotiation
  • Anyone purchasing a boat over $100k who wants expert guidance

How It Works

1

Initial Consultation

We discuss your needs, budget, and timeline. We help you understand the Caribbean market and what to expect.

2

Search & Viewings

We identify suitable boats, arrange viewings, and provide honest assessments. We point out red flags and positives.

3

Make Offer

We help you structure a competitive offer with appropriate contingencies. We negotiate on your behalf.

4

Deposit & Escrow

Your deposit goes into secure escrow. Funds are protected until all conditions are satisfied.

5

Survey & Sea Trial

We coordinate surveyor and attend survey and sea trial with you. We review findings and advise on next steps.

6

Negotiate Repairs or Price

If survey reveals issues, we negotiate repairs or price reduction. You decide whether to proceed, renegotiate, or walk away.

7

Closing

We prepare and review all documents, coordinate final payment, and ensure proper title transfer. You take possession.

Risks We Reduce

Overpaying

Market analysis ensures fair pricing

Hidden Defects

Professional survey reveals issues before purchase

Title Problems

We verify clean title and lien status

Unfavorable Terms

Expert negotiation protects your interests

Documentation Errors

We review all contracts and closing documents

Fraud

Escrow and verification protect your funds

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a buyer agent in the Caribbean?

While not required, a buyer agent protects your interests during negotiation, coordinates surveys and sea trials, reviews documentation, and ensures proper closing procedures. This is especially valuable for international buyers unfamiliar with Caribbean jurisdictions.

What does a marine survey cost?

Marine surveys typically cost $18 to $25 per foot for sail boats and $20 to $30 per foot for power boats. A comprehensive survey for a 45-foot catamaran ranges from $1,800 to $2,500. Additional tests like engine compression or moisture testing may cost extra.

How long does the buying process take?

From accepted offer to closing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. This includes deposit into escrow, survey and sea trial (3-7 days to schedule, 1-2 days to complete), survey review, and final closing. Complex cases or financing may extend this timeline.

What is included in a sea trial?

A sea trial tests the boat under actual operating conditions. The surveyor checks engine performance, steering, navigation equipment, autopilot, sails (if applicable), and overall handling. Buyers should attend to assess comfort and performance firsthand.

Can I finance a boat purchase in the Caribbean?

Financing is available through marine lenders for qualified buyers. Lenders typically require 10-20% down payment and offer terms of 10-20 years depending on boat age and value. Interest rates vary. We can connect you with marine finance specialists.

What are the ongoing costs of boat ownership?

Annual costs include insurance (1-2% of boat value), maintenance (10% of purchase price annually), dockage or mooring, haul-out and bottom paint, registration, and unexpected repairs. Budget conservatively, especially for older boats.

Should I buy a boat in charter?

Charter boats offer income potential but typically have higher hours and more wear. Request detailed maintenance logs, charter revenue history, and a thorough survey. Many buyers successfully purchase ex-charter boats at lower prices with proper inspection.

How does escrow work for boat purchases?

Escrow is a neutral third party that holds your deposit and purchase funds until all conditions are met. Funds are only released to the seller when survey is accepted, title is clear, and all documents are signed. This protects both buyer and seller.

What is the best time to buy a boat in the Caribbean?

Hurricane season (June through November) often sees more inventory and motivated sellers, especially September and October. However, good boats sell year-round. Focus on finding the right boat rather than timing the market.

Ready to Start Your Search?

Browse our inventory or tell us what you are looking for.