Tips for Buying a Boat in the UAE

Buying a boat is a decision towards freedom to adrenaline-fueled sea adventures. Whether you are buying a new boat or a used one, this quick guide will serve you with all the tips for buying a boat. One can now buy certified boats effortlessly thanks to the marketplaces for new and used boats in the UAE. However, the following checklist will help you in choosing the right vessel.

6 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A BOAT OR YACHT

Buying a boat is just like buying a house or a car. Here are some basic tips for buying a boat in the UAE:

• Decide the type of boat you want
• Determine your budget
• Check the condition of the boat 
• Look for mooring options
• Know about all the legal requirements for a boat in the UAE
• Buy a boat and fulfill the registration requirements

DECIDE THE TYPE OF BOAT

One needs to figure out the type of boating. Do you need to relax on your long weekend or do you want a long adventurous speed boating? First you have to determine the boating activity you prefer and size of boat suitable for your needs. Then search for the boat, for instance some of the general categories are:

• Speed boats: One can utilize speed boats and jet skis for an adventurous and speedy boating.
• Deck boats: Owners of deck boats use this type of vessel for water sport activities. Deck boats have a seating capacity of 4 to 6 people.
• Luxury yachts: They are slower in pace. These boats are used for holding events, food activities and relaxation trips on the sea.
• Cabin Cruisers: These are used for comfortable boat trips and these boats are equipped with air-conditioners, heaters and power generators.

DETERMINE BUDGET

The overall cost of owning a boat goes beyond its buying cost. There are certain fuel and boat maintenance costs, docking charges, boat safety gears and accessories and boat insurance. You need to list all these following costs and then look out for the best options in the marketplace:

• Maintenance Charges: Its cost ranges from AED 500 and depends upon the type of maintenance and service your boat needs.
• Docking Charges: The cost for docking the boat can range from AED 500 to 1500 per day depending on the club and place you chose,

CONDITION OF THE BOAT

One of the important things when buying a used boat is checking the condition. New boats are in perfect condition but how will you know the condition of a used boat? Here is a guide to follow when checking the condition of a used vessel:

• Check the hull and exterior: The external appearance will give you a good idea of the boat maintenance. Check for any fixed portholes for water leakages.
• Inspect the engine: Inspect the engine and spark plugs. Check the fuel tank and prop shaft.
• Call the boat maintenance shop or company: Let marine surveyors check all the components of the ship as they will have an idea of what issues to look for.
• Inspect ship’s deck: Walk on the ship and apply pressure with heavy steps on deck to check for any pealing or weak area.

Moreover, you can ask several questions from the boat owner when you inspect the condition of the boat:

• How many hours did the engine run?
• How often has the boat been serviced by boat and ship maintenance centres?
• Have you experienced any problems with the boat?
• Why are you selling?

The answers to these questions will give you better insight into the boat’s condition and thus help you in deciding whether to buy or not.

MOORING OPTIONS

After you buy a marine craft, it needs a safe storage place. Look out for boat docking in the Emirate where you are residing. The following boating clubs in Dubai offer mooring:

• Bvlgari Marina
• Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
• The Pavilion Marina, Jumeirah Beach Hotel
• Dubai Harbour
• Dubai International Marine Club

The other boating clubs that offer mooring are located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi:

• Emirate Palace Marina
• Yas Marina

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BUYING A BOAT IN THE UAE

Residents of the UAE can buy a marine craft and fulfill the legal requirements to own it on their name. Buying a boat is similar to buying any road vehicle. Boat needs to be registered by the marine authorities in the UAE. Here’s a list of legal requirements when buying a boat:

• Boat registration in Dubai or any other Emirate
• Technical inspection certificate
• Coast guard approval 
• Insurance certificate
• Marine craft driver’s licence
• Permit to sail on the waters

You will get a boat registration licence and technical inspection certificate from the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA). Insurance is necessary for pleasure water marine crafts such as jet skis, yachts, and speed boats. Then, you will need to apply for a marine driving licence in Dubai by DMCA, which is acceptable all over the UAE.

BUYING A BOAT

Now after complete inspection and thorough research of prices for different boats, one can buy a boat. You will obtain a boat registration number and a permit to sail from the Coastguard. Registration number is like a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and it needs to be visible on the hull of the marine craft. 

These were all the tips for buying a boat. You can also refer to these tips when buying a used boat in the UAE. Besides, you can join different clubs for watersports and boating in Dubai as well as in other Emirates. Make sure to follow the boat safety guide as a precaution to any emergency during a boat trip.

Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more information on boating and boat rental companies in Dubai.