3 Things to Consider Before Buying a Hurricane-Damaged Boat

Hurricanes have become more destructive over the years and with more than 60,000 boats being destroyed in the US alone, it’d be safe to say that boat owners are facing the worst of it. Even though hurricanes cause massive losses, they give birth to a great opportunity to get bargain deals on hurricane-damaged boats. Having said that, you need to consider a number of key factors to ensure that you're investing your money in the right boat. In this article, we discuss three such key aspects to consider before buying hurricane-damaged boats for sale from boat auctions in the USA.

1. Types of Damage

Dismasting is one of the most common damages found in hurricane-damaged boats, followed by hull penetrations and extensive damage to the frame of the boat. If the damage is extensive, the cost to repair is most likely to be higher than the value of the boat. In some cases, the boat remains partially or completely submerged after the rescue operation. These boats are also beyond the scope of repair.

2. Insurance Value 

In many cases, the insured value of the boat is not too high. When these boats get damaged, even if the damage is minimal, their repair cost surpasses their insured value, due to which the insurance companies declare these boats as a constructive total loss (CTL). Typically, the owner in such cases collects the insurance and has the first option to retain the vessel. If not, then the insurance company will sell it in a public auction where they are sold at remarkably low prices. 

3. Reputation of the Boat Seller

Sometimes salvage yards make cosmetic upgrades to boats and sell them at much higher prices. It is only when the new owner surveys the boat that they realize the true damage. Although online reviews should help you select a reputable salvage auction house, it's always advisable to get the boat inspected by a professional.

Bottom Line

Although purchasing and repairing a hurricane-damaged boat can be highly rewarding, you need to know your way around. On one hand, buying hurricane-damaged boats for sale calls for some technical knowledge; on the other, you must have some financial buffer for any hidden damages that might appear during the repair/restoration process. Hope this article has cleared some of your doubts about buying a hurricane damaged boat and help you find a great deal.

Salvage Boats For Fishing Experience

How about some seafood cuisine for lunch? Well, the enthusiasm and taste double when you go out fishing for your own catch! Fishing is a relaxing hobby that can involve the entire family. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, everyone can enjoy the silence of nature while spending time together. If you enjoy fishing, all you need is a boat and fishing gear to wade through the water and reach the appropriate fishing location. Fishing enthusiasts who are in exploration mode can buy salvage boats for sale at extremely low prices. There are fishing boats of different brands such as, Crestliner, Lowe, Tracker, Ranger and Triton. The best source to buy salvage boats are online auctions.

Online auctions are held on a regular basis. Buyers who wish to master the art of fishing can opt for salvage boats. At auctions, salvage boats with minor damages can be easily repaired. An online auto auction is a quick, convenient and hassle-free medium to purchase salvaged boats at a fraction of the price. Auction houses along with registered brokers conduct auctions for buyers who do not have a dealer license. Those interested can register on the broker’s site and place a bid to win a boat at wholesale price. These online auto auctions are a great way to save money. Without visiting the auction site, bidders can bid and win vehicles from any corner of the world.

On the auction site, there are images of salvage boats with vehicle details to refer to. Bidders can research the history of vehicles using the vehicle identification number. In vehicle details, the type of damage is clearly stated for buyers to make a judicious choice. Some of these boats have minimum dents and can be repaired at the minimum cost. For a smart purchase, inspect different parts of the boat including engine, bilge, steering, throttle, electrical components, fuel tanks and other components for a safe ride.

For a laid back and relaxing fishing experience, bid on a salvage boat for sale and get ready for a great weekend.