Buying a boat is an important investment that requires careful preparation and a thorough understanding of French administrative procedures. Whether you want to sail at sea or on inland waters, buying a boat involves much more than simply choosing the model. Between the definition of your nautical project, the search for the ideal boat, the mandatory technical checks and the administrative formalities, each step requires particular attention. French boating regulations are strict and evolve regularly, making it essential to have a good knowledge of the procedures. In addition, the financial aspects go well beyond the initial purchase price, including maintenance, insurance, shipping and equipment costs. This structured approach will allow you to avoid common pitfalls and to take full advantage of your new nautical passion in complete serenity and legal compliance.
Define your boat purchase project
What type of boat should you choose?
Choosing the type of boat is the first crucial step in your nautical project. Sailing boats offer ecological and sporty navigation, particularly suitable for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate the energy autonomy and silence of navigation. Motor boats, on the other hand, favor speed and ease of maneuvering, ideal for family outings or short trips. Rigid boats combine stability and performance, perfect for coastal fishing or various nautical activities.
Multihulls offer exceptional living space and remarkable stability, but require specific berths and a larger budget. Houseboats allow for comfortable cruises with all the necessary equipment on board. Each category has distinct technical characteristics that will directly influence your browsing experience and legal obligations.
Intended use: boating, fishing, offshore navigation, etc.
The use you intend to make of your boat completely determines the necessary technical characteristics and the mandatory equipment. Coastal boating requires a stable and comfortable boat, equipped for day trips with family and friends. The required safety equipment remains basic for this use in protected areas.
Sea fishing requires specific arrangements such as fish tanks, integrated rod holders and motorization adapted to busy fishing areas. Offshore navigation requires reinforced safety criteria, a robust hull capable of facing heavy weather, and sophisticated navigation equipment including GPS, VHF, radar and autopilot.
Each use also involves different training courses and specific permits. French regulations clearly distinguish between authorized navigation areas according to the type of boat and the qualifications of the pilot.
New or used: pros and cons
Buying a new boat guarantees compliance with the latest safety standards and the absence of hidden defects. You benefit from the manufacturer's warranty, generally two years, covering manufacturing defects and premature malfunctions. The equipment meets current standards, in particular in terms of navigation electronics and ecological motorization.
However, the significant discount at the first launch represents a major disadvantage. A new boat loses around twenty to thirty percent of its value in the first year. Delivery times can also be restrictive, especially for custom models.
The opportunity offers a quality-price ratio that is often advantageous, making it possible to acquire a higher-end boat for a budget equivalent to a new entry-level boat. Negotiation is still possible and additional equipment is generally included. However, technical expertise is becoming essential to avoid unpleasant surprises, and refurbishment costs can quickly increase the initial investment.
Establish a realistic budget (purchase, maintenance, berth, insurance)
The purchase budget represents only part of the total nautical investment. Expect about fifteen to twenty percent of the purchase price annually for routine maintenance, including engine overhauling, antifouling, fairing and various repairs. These costs vary considerably depending on the age of the boat and the intensity of use.
Port space is often the most important expense item after purchase. Rates vary enormously depending on the region, the size of the boat and the port services. Count between one thousand and five thousand euros per year for a boat of eight to twelve meters in an equipped port.
Liability insurance remains mandatory and generally represents two to four percent of the boat's value annually. Hull insurance, optional but recommended, doubles this amount. Ancillary costs include fuel, navigation fees, mandatory training, and safety equipment to be renewed periodically.
Find the right boat
Where to look: boat shows, online ads, dealerships, brokers
Boat shows offer the advantage of directly comparing several models and meeting manufacturers. These events allow you to discover new products, to negotiate preferential rates and to benefit from expert advice. The fairs in Paris, Cannes or La Rochelle bring together the entire French and international offer.
Specialized online platforms such as Boat24, YachtWorld or Le Bon Coin offer a wide choice of used boats with precise search tools. These sites allow you to compare prices and contact sellers directly. However, beware of too attractive ads that may hide significant flaws.
Authorized dealerships guarantee professional after-sales service and often offer financing facilities. They also ensure the takeover of your old boat and manage the administrative formalities. Marine brokers specializing in second-hand goods bring their technical expertise and trade on your behalf, for a commission that is generally between five and ten percent of the sale price.
Key things to check before buying
Hull examination is the priority check, especially for polyester boats. Look for cracks, delaminations, osmosis, or poorly executed repairs. A mass test makes it possible to detect humidity in the laminate. For wooden shells, check the condition of the frames and the absence of rot.
Motorization requires particular attention with the verification of operating hours, the condition of the seals, hoses and the cooling system. A cold engine test reveals possible starting problems. The condition of the propeller and the base determines performance and safety.
The electrical installation must comply with maritime safety standards with protected circuits and correct grounding. Check the operation of all electronic equipment, navigation lights, and battery charging system. Safety equipment must be up to standard and within the validity dates.
Try the boat: why it is essential
The navigation test reveals faults that are impossible to detect at the port. The behavior of the boat while sailing, its stability, its maneuverability and its real performances can only be evaluated under conditions of use. Test different speeds and speeds to assess the comfort of navigation and detect any abnormal vibrations.
Check the operation of all on-board equipment: autopilot, GPS, VHF, sonar and navigation electronics. Also test the mooring equipment, winches and steering systems. The test makes it possible to assess real consumption and engine performance under various conditions.
Take advantage of this test to familiarize yourself with the controls and assess the ergonomics of the cockpit. Verify that visibility is satisfactory and that all instruments are legible. This step also allows you to negotiate the final price according to any defects found. An IoT monitoring system like the one offered by Oria Marine can also help you monitor the condition of your future boat remotely once the purchase is finalized.
Check the mandatory documents
Registration certificate
The registration certificate is the official identity card of the boat in France. This document, issued by the maritime affairs services, contains the precise technical characteristics of the boat: dimensions, engine, number of authorized passengers and navigation area. It also mentions the identity of the legal owner and any charges or mortgages.
Verify that the information corresponds exactly to the boat shown, especially the hull and engine numbers. Any undeclared technical change may result in the invalidity of the certificate and sanctions during inspections. Boats under 2.5 meters are exempt from registration, but must have a legible manufacturer's plate.
For a used boat, make sure that the certificate is up to date and that the seller is listed as the owner. In case of loss of the document, a duplicate procedure must be initiated before the sale, which may delay the transaction for several weeks.
Francization act (for boats over 7 meters)
The act of francization concerns exclusively boats over 7 meters long intended for navigation at sea. This document attests to the French nationality of the ship and allows the French flag to be flown in international waters. It is essential to leave French territorial waters and is an internationally recognized nautical passport.
Francization is obtained from customs services and requires proof that the owner is French or a French resident, or that the boat belongs to a French company. Boats built in France or in the European Union are automatically eligible, while those imported from third countries require a specific customs procedure.
Without a valid francization act, your boat cannot legally sail beyond territorial waters. When buying a French boat, check that the document mentions the correct owner and that the characteristics correspond to the boat. The change of ownership requires a declaration to the competent services.
Invoice or bill of sale
The purchase invoice or bill of sale is the legal proof of ownership and determines the official value of the boat for insurance and resale. This document must precisely mention the identity of the parties, the complete characteristics of the boat, the selling price and any warranty conditions.
For a new boat, the dealer's invoice is sufficient and generally includes French VAT. For a used boat between individuals, a handwritten bill of sale signed by both parties is authentic, but it is recommended to have it drawn up by a professional to avoid subsequent disputes.
Carefully keep all documents relating to the purchase, including invoices for additional equipment, as they determine the value of expertise in the event of a disaster. Tax services may also require them during inspections, particularly to verify the payment of transfer duties or VAT on imports.
CE compliance and technical documents
The CE marking attests to the boat's compliance with European safety directives and is a legal requirement for all boats of 2.5 to 24 meters placed on the European market after 1998. This certification covers stability, buoyancy, motorization and on-board installations according to precise technical standards.
The EC declaration of conformity, provided by the manufacturer, must accompany the boat during all transactions. It guarantees that the boat meets the essential safety requirements and can circulate freely in the European area. Authorities may require this document during checks at sea or in ports.
Technical documents include the user manual, engine certificates, fitness plans, and the list of installed equipment. These elements facilitate maintenance and allow professionals to intervene effectively. They are also required for insurance valuations and subsequent technical changes.
Financing the purchase of your boat
Boat credit: options and conditions
Specialized boat loans offer advantageous conditions adapted to the particularities of the nautical market. Specialized financial organizations better understand the specificities of this sector and offer extended repayment terms, generally from 5 to 15 years depending on the amount and age of the boat. Interest rates remain competitive, often lower than traditional consumer loans.
The recommended personal contribution varies between 20 and 30% of the purchase price, but some organizations finance up to 100% for new or recent boats. Acceptance criteria include the creditworthiness of the borrower, the value of the boat used as collateral, and sometimes the nautical experience of the future owner.
Traditional banks also offer boat loans, but with conditions that are often less flexible. They generally require additional guarantees and have shorter repayment periods. Negotiation is still possible, especially if you are already a client of the institution with other financial products.
Nautical leasing (rental with option to buy)
Nautical leasing allows you to use a new or recent boat for monthly rentals, with the possibility of acquiring it at the end of the contract for a pre-determined residual value. This formula has the advantage of limiting the initial contribution and often including services such as insurance and maintenance in monthly payments.
Leasing contracts generally vary from 3 to 7 years, with rents calculated on the depreciation of the boat rather than on its total value. This approach makes it possible to reduce monthly payments compared to a traditional credit. At the end of the contract, you have three options: buy the boat, return it, or renew the contract with a newer model.
This solution is particularly suitable for users who want to change boats regularly or who are hesitant about their long-term commitment to yachting. However, beware of the return conditions, which may include significant costs if the boat shows excessive wear and tear or damage not covered by insurance.
Possible aids and exemptions
Some regions offer aid for the acquisition of boats for professional fishing or nautical training, especially in areas dependent on the maritime economy. These grants, often linked to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, can cover a significant part of the investment for eligible projects.
Businesses can benefit from tax advantages for boats for professional use: rental, training, or commercial representation. Accelerated depreciation and the deduction of operating expenses make it possible to optimize the taxation of the investment. Vacation rental companies can also deduct expenses related to the operation of the boat.
The VAT exemption applies to boats permanently exported outside the European Union or to ships over 7.5 meters long sold to maritime transport professionals. Individuals residing outside the EU can also benefit from tax refund under certain strict conditions for leaving European territory.
Perform administrative procedures
Registration of the boat with maritime affairs
Registration with maritime affairs is a legal requirement for all boats over 2.5 meters long used at sea. This process is carried out within fifteen days following the acquisition of the chosen place of registration from the Departmental Directorate of Territories and the Sea (DDTM).
The registration file includes the completed application form, proof of identity and address of the owner, the purchase invoice or bill of sale, and the manufacturer's technical documents. For used boats, the old registration certificate must be submitted with a declaration of transfer signed by the former owner.
Registration fees vary depending on the size of the boat and the region, generally between 50 and 200 euros. The provisional registration certificate allows you to navigate immediately, pending receipt of the final document in about three weeks. This process can now be done online in some regions, considerably simplifying the procedure.
Change of ownership (used boat)
Changing the owner of a used boat requires a precise administrative procedure to legally transfer ownership. The former owner must complete and sign the transfer declaration on the back of the registration certificate, mentioning the date of sale and the identity of the purchaser. This declaration must be made within fifteen days following the transaction.
The new owner has one month to apply to maritime affairs for a change of ownership. The file includes the old certificate with the declaration of transfer, the bill of sale, proof of identity and address, and the payment of the related taxes. A check of civil status and the absence of opposition may be requested.
During this transition period, the new owner can sail with the old certificate accompanied by the bill of sale and the declaration of transfer. This legal protection avoids complications in the event of an inspection at sea. Delays in these procedures can lead to fines and complicate relationships with insurance companies in the event of a claim.
Compulsory insurance: what does it cover?
Liability insurance is a legal requirement for all motor boats and sailboats over 6 meters in length. This minimum guarantee covers damage caused to third parties during navigation: collision with other boats, personal injuries, accidental pollution, or damage to port facilities. The recommended guarantee amounts are generally several million euros.
Civil liability does not cover damage to your own boat, nor does it cover theft or total loss. Hull insurance, optional but highly recommended, protects against these risks using various formulas: all risks, named risks, or third party collision. This warranty generally includes assistance and towing at sea.
Common exclusions include normal wear and tear, poor maintenance, navigation in prohibited areas, or use by an unqualified person. Carefully check the authorized navigation conditions, the geographical areas covered, and the obligations in terms of safety equipment. The inaccurate statement or the concealment of information may result in the nullity of the contract.
Preparing for the launch and the first navigation
Technical overhaul and safety equipment
Technical overhaul before first sailing is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and reliability of your new boat. This comprehensive check must cover all vital systems: engine, electrical installation, fuel system, steering system, and navigation equipment. A qualified professional can identify potential faults and recommend the necessary interventions.
Mandatory safety equipment varies according to the navigation area and the size of the boat. Marine Affairs Division 240 defines these requirements precisely: life jackets, distress flares, light tracking devices, first aid kits, and fire-fighting equipment. This equipment should be checked regularly and replaced prior to its expiration date.
Validity dates must be checked before each sea trip. Flare flares, life rafts, and some electronic equipment have limited lifespans. A maintenance log kept up to date facilitates the monitoring of these deadlines and demonstrates your seriousness in the event of a check by the maritime authorities.
Find a berth or anchorage
The search for a berth must be planned several months in advance, especially in popular tourist areas. Marinas offer different types of locations: places all year round, seasonal rentals, or temporary passages. Associated services significantly influence rates: water, electricity, fuel, surveillance, and technical services.
Waiting lists are common in well-located ports, sometimes requiring several years of waiting to get a permanent seat. Some ports offer priority systems based on the age of the request or the size of the boat. It is advisable to register in several ports to multiply opportunities.
Organized anchorages are an economic alternative, particularly in the Mediterranean. These areas offer secure anchoring at a fraction of the cost of a berth, but require a tender to reach land. Wild anchorages, while free, present risks in terms of safety and environmental regulations. A monitoring system like that of Oria Marine allows you to monitor your boat even at anchor, providing additional peace of mind.
Formalities for navigation at sea and inland waters
Marine navigation requires compliance with specific regulations depending on the area frequented. French territorial waters extend up to 12 miles from the coast, beyond which international rules apply. Some areas are regulated or prohibited: nature reserves, military zones, commercial shipping channels, or professional fishing areas.
A boating license is mandatory for motor boats of more than 6 horsepower and sailboats of more than 6 meters. Different categories of permits authorize specific navigation areas: coastal, offshore, or fluvial. Related training includes navigation rules, marine signals, meteorology, and safety procedures.
Inland water navigation follows distinct rules, with specific permits such as the certificate of competence or the pleasure charter. French waterways are managed by Voies navigables de France (VNF), which issues traffic authorizations and collects navigation fees. Some canals impose restrictions on draft, width, or passage times that should be checked before departure.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions about buying a boat
How long does it take to finalize the purchase of a boat?
The finalization of a boat purchase generally requires between 15 days and 2 months depending on the complexity of the file. For a new boat, the deadlines depend mainly on the availability of the model and the options chosen. Standard paperwork takes around 3 weeks once all the paperwork is collected. Obtaining financing can extend these deadlines by several additional weeks, especially if your case requires complex guarantees. For a used boat, add the time needed for technical expertise and document verification. Periods of high nautical activity, especially in spring, can extend all these deadlines due to the congestion of administrative services and experts.
Can you buy a boat without a license?
Buying a boat does not require any specific license, unlike using it. You can legally acquire any boat without justifying your nautical qualifications. However, navigation imposes training requirements depending on the type and power of the boat. Motorboats under 6 horsepower and sailboats under 6 meters can be flown without a license in inland waters and within 2 miles of coastline. Beyond these limits, a boat license becomes mandatory. This regulation aims to guarantee safety at sea and knowledge of navigation rules. Many salespeople offer training included in the purchase, making it easier for new boaters to get a license.
What are the mistakes to avoid when buying a used boat?
The most costly mistakes involve the lack of in-depth technical expertise prior to purchase. Many buyers rely solely on the exterior appearance of the boat without checking the condition of the hull, engine and electrical installations. Osmosis on polyester shells, invisible to the naked eye, can require repairs worth several thousand euros. Neglecting the verification of administrative documents is another common mistake: a non-compliant registration certificate, outdated francization, or an illegal owner can block the transaction for months. Underestimating ancillary costs is also a classic trap. Many buyers focus on the purchase price without budgeting for immediate maintenance, berth, or safety equipment to be replaced.
What is the difference between registration and francization?
Registration is the mandatory administrative registration of any boat longer than 2.5 meters with French maritime affairs. This document, valid only in France, allows traffic in national territorial waters and identifies the legal owner. Francization, for its part, attests to the French nationality of the ship and authorizes it to fly the French flag in international waters. It concerns exclusively boats over 7 meters long intended to navigate at sea beyond territorial waters. A French boat can anchor in foreign ports and benefits from French consular protection. These two procedures are complementary: a French boat must also be registered, but the opposite is not systematic. Francization is obtained from customs services, while registration is a matter of maritime affairs.
Do you have to have insurance to sail?
Civil liability insurance is legally mandatory for all motor boats, regardless of their power, and for sailboats over 6 meters. This obligation aims to protect third parties in the event of an accident: collision, pollution, personal injury or damage to installations. Penalties for lack of insurance include significant fines and the immobilization of the boat. Hull insurance, which covers damage to your own boat, is still optional but highly recommended considering the value of boats. Many marinas require an insurance certificate before awarding a place. The recommended minimum guarantees amount to several million euros for civil liability, taking into account the potential costs of maritime claims. Check that your contract covers the navigation areas you frequent.
Is it better to go through a marine broker?
Using a marine broker has significant advantages, especially for novice buyers or complex transactions. These professionals know the market perfectly, negotiate prices effectively and detect technical faults thanks to their experience. They also manage administrative formalities and can recommend experts, carriers or appropriate financing. Their professional network makes it easy to find boats that match your exact criteria, including non-public offers. However, their fees, generally between 5 and 10% of the sale price, increase the total cost of the acquisition. For simple purchases of small new boats or transactions between individuals, their services may be superfluous.
