Buying A Used Boat

with

Ben & Teresa Carey

Morse Alpha Expeditions

Learn how to navigate the used boat buying process with confidence

90-Minute Live Session

On Demand Replay Available

Live Q&A

Navigating the process of buying a used sailboat can be both exciting and daunting. This online class is a layman's guide to surveying, choosing a boat, and what to expect post-purchase. We’ll help you gain a clear understanding of what to consider when purchasing a used cruising sailboat. Whether you're dreaming of weekend getaways or planning a life on the water, this session will equip you with practical knowledge. Join us for this informative seminar to demystify the process of buying a used boat. With expert guidance and practical tips, you'll be better prepared to make informed decisions and embark on your boating journey with confidence!

FREE

Buying A Used Boat

Online class overview

This online class is for anyone who dreams of owning a cruising sailboat but lacks the knowledge or experience to navigate the buying process. If you’re worried about space and comfort considerations, overrunning your budget, tackling projects, finding a good surveyor, obtaining insurance, and just generally getting in over your head – this online class will help you make smarter choices and gain confidence in your boat-decision-making process.

List of topics:

Why understanding and define your cruising goals is step 1
Assessing the size of the boat based on your needs
Considerations for liveability and sailability
What to look for to determine a boat’s condition quickly
Why hiring a marine surveyor is crucial
The real ongoing costs associated with boat ownership
Maintenance, insurance, and docking fees
Why design and material matter
Why insurance is so hard to get
The hidden costs

Why Buy a Used Sailboat

Wider Selection

The used sailboat market offers a diverse range of models, sizes, and designs, some of which may no longer be in production. This variety makes it easier to find a boat tailored to your specific needs, whether for racing, cruising, or weekend getaways.

Cost Savings

Used sailboats are often significantly cheaper than new ones, offering excellent value for money. Depreciation impacts new boats quickly, so buying a used one allows you to get more features or a larger vessel within your budget without the steep initial depreciation of a brand-new boat.

Proven Reliability

A well-maintained used sailboat has often proven its seaworthiness over time. Known performance records, community reviews, and previous owners’ experience can provide confidence in the boat’s reliability and suitability for your needs, especially if you're new to sailing.

Your Host

Ben & Teresa Carey

Teresa Carey and Ben Eriksen Carey are seasoned maritime professionals and co-owners of Morse Alpha Expeditions, a renowned coastal and offshore sail-training program. Teresa is a US Coast Guard licensed captain, educator, and accomplished media producer. Her experience includes captaining diverse vessels—schooners, motor yachts, sailing yachts, and even a lobster boat—and teaching for sea programs like Outward Bound. Teresa’s solo offshore sailing and her work as a science journalist, and experience teaching high school, college, and on-the-water enrich her teaching with practical and scientific insights. Ben holds a 200 Ton US Coast Guard Master's License and a 500 Ton Mate of Towing credential. His extensive maritime career spans schooners, tugboats, sailing and motor yachts, with expertise as captain, mate, and beyond. A lifelong waterman and marine biology graduate, Ben brings a deep understanding of seamanship and safety to his instruction. Together, Ben and Teresa have sailed thousands of nautical miles, co-founded Morse Alpha Expeditions, and produced engaging sailing media including podcasts, like the Morning Muster Sailing Podcast, and documentaries. Their combined hands-on experience and passion for education make them exceptional instructors for this navigation rules online class.

Get the class Bundle

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Online Class Registration

@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (90 min)

Regular Price

ASA Member Price

On-Demand Access

All registrations include unlimited on-demand access to the recordings of the live online class. So if you are unable to attend live you can still register and watch at your leisure.

ASA MEMBER DISCOUNT

American Sailing Members can claim their discount in the Member Portal. If you’re not a current member then for only $59/year you can join or renew today!