Be sure and get a written inventory before buying, and have it checked off before making the final payment. It is, I regret to say, a too common practice among some sellers to skin-out a boat before delivering her. Or, if this is not done, to substitute cheaper articles for the ones on board. It is also frequent for purchasers to call for things that are not on board, and which they suppose or think ought to be, and this leads to a disagreement. A written inventory will settle the question; verbal statements are worthless.
Nautical instruments, charts, etc.:
Nautical instruments, charts, books, private flags, clothes, etc., are personal belongings, and are not part of a boat’s fittings or furniture, unless so specified in the inventory. A compass is, if it belongs in a vessel’s binnacle. A dingey or other boat if used by the yacht as a tender goes with her, unless there is an agreement to the contrary. Spare spars, sails, ballast and anchors, even if stowed on shore and not used, belong to the boat, and are included in the sale, unless otherwise specified.
Boat’s name:
If a boat is registered, you cannot lawfully change her name, without the permission of the Customs. All registered vessels must have their name and port painted on them. The name of a boat is not necessarily sold with the craft, but the former owner cannot prevent you from using the old name if you wish to, unless you have made an agreement before buying not to do so; nor can he prevent you from changing the name.
MAKING SAIL.
Masts:
If for any reason you remove your mast, be careful to note its position, so that it can be put back again as it was before. If wedged, mark the wedges before taking them out, so you can put them back again in their proper places. The rake of a mast has frequently much to do with a boat’s good sailing.