🛥️ Buying a Motor Boat for Coastal Cruising in the UK: 10 Must-Ask Questions Answered by Experts

Thinking of buying your first motor boat for coastal adventures around the UK? Whether you’re cruising from Brighton Marina, exploring the South Coast, or planning weekend getaways with the family, you’ve likely got a few questions.

At Brighton Boat Sales, we’ve helped hundreds of new and returning boaters find the perfect vessel for their needs—and we know the most common questions people ask before they take the plunge.

To give you a truly complete picture, we went one step further. We asked four marine experts—a naval architect, a marine surveyor, a marine engineer, and a seasoned skipper—to weigh in with advice that most boat buyers miss.

So, before you buy your motor boat, read this.

⚓ 1. What Size Motor Boat is Best for UK Coastal Cruising?

Most families and first-time buyers are looking in the 20ft to 30ft range—and for good reason. These boats are manageable, versatile, and comfortable for coastal trips.

💡 Naval Architect’s Tip: “Look beyond length—beam width, hull shape, and balance affect how she handles in waves.”

🔍 Marine Surveyor: “Too small and you’ll compromise on safety. Too large and the running costs spike exponentially. 25–28ft often hits the sweet spot.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: A 25–28ft cruiser is perfect for exploring the South Coast, without worrying about high berthing fees in Brighton Marina.

🌊 2. What Type of Hull is Most Suitable for the UK Coastal Waters?

The South Coast is known for its wind chop and tidal variations, so you’ll want a hull that balances comfort and performance.

💡 Naval Architect’s Tip: “Deep-V hulls cut through waves smoothly but can roll at rest. Semi-displacement hulls balance speed and fuel economy better for UK conditions.”

🛠️ Marine Engineer’s Insight: “The hull impacts fuel use, handling, and ride comfort. Choose based on where and how you’ll use the boat most.”

Deep-V hulls offer a smoother ride in rougher waters.
Semi-displacement hulls provide better fuel economy at cruising speeds.

🚤 3. Should I Buy New or Used?

It depends on your budget, confidence level, and desire for warranty vs. value.

🔍 Marine Surveyor’s Advice: “Always get a survey—even newer boats can hide issues. Don’t rely on appearance alone.”

🛠️ Marine Engineer’s Insight: “Engines have a lifespan. Check hours, service history, and corrosion.”

New boats come with peace of mind, warranties, and the latest features.
Used boats offer great value but require careful inspection.

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: First-time buyers often overlook insurance costs, depreciation curves, and resale value. Used often wins in year one. We offer hand-picked used boats with full documentation and honest advice—ideal for first-time buyers.

💷 4. What Are the Real Costs of Boat Ownership?

Beyond the purchase price, consider: Mooring fees, insurance, winter storage, fuel, haul-outs, antifouling, annual engine maintenance and servicing… it adds up.

🧠 Skipper’s Wisdom: “A well-maintained boat costs less in the long run. Neglect is where the real expense hides.”

🛠️ Marine Engineer’s Insight: “Annual maintenance can run 10% of the boat’s value—more in saltwater. Budget wisely.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We offer realistic budgeting support and can help you forecast your first year of ownership. A £30,000 motor boat might cost £3,000–£5,000/year in ownership costs. Be realistic, not romantic.

⚙️ 5. Inboard or Outboard Engine?

Both have their pros:

Outboards are easier to maintain, remove, and upgrade.
Inboards Inboards offer quieter running and fuel economy over long distances.

🛠️ Engineer’s Note: “Saltwater takes a toll. Make sure you flush your outboard or choose inboard diesel for long-term use.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: If flexibility and low maintenance matter, go outboard. For cruising and comfort? Consider inboards, petrol or diesel. We will help you match the engine type to your lifestyle and usage.

📜 6. Do I Need a Licence to Drive a Motor Boat in the UK?

No formal licence is needed for private boats under 24m—but we highly recommend getting certified.

🚨 Skipper’s Suggestion: “Take the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course—it’s often required for insurance and gives you vital safety knowledge.” “Consider Day Skipper or Coastal Skipper if you’re venturing further or at night.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We’ll point you to trusted local instructors in Brighton Marina. You don’t need to prove competence to buy a boat—but you sure need it to use one safely.

🏖️ 7. Can I Use a Motor Boat for Weekend Trips or Living Aboard?

Absolutely! With the right layout and amenities, a coastal cruiser becomes your floating holiday home.

🛌 Look for:

A comfortable berth
Toilet and galley facilities
Storage for supplies
Extended battery life or generator

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We stock boats designed for real-life coastal adventures—perfect for extended weekend trips or a few nights away.

🧭 8. Is Coastal Boating Safe?

Yes—with the right boat, knowledge, and safety gear.

⚠️ Weather on the UK coast can change quickly. Equip your boat with:

Life jackets and VHF radio
GPS/chartplotter
Self-draining decks
Bilge pumps

🧠 Skipper’s Wisdom: “ Safety isn’t gear—it’s knowledge. Know how to use a VHF radio. Check tide tables. File a float plan.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We offer a safety walkthrough with every boat we sell, and help you get properly equipped before you leave the marina. Buy with safety in mind. You’ll never regret overpreparing in British coastal waters.

⚓ 9. Where Can I Moor or Store My Boat?

Brighton is lucky to have a fantastic marina! The Brighton Marina community is more than just boat owners; it’s a network of passionate individuals who share a love for the sea. Swap stories with seasoned sailors, get expert advice from fellow enthusiasts, and forge lifelong friendships over shared adventures. From the dramatic white cliffs of Beachy Head to the hidden coves of the Seven Sisters, the Sussex coastline is a treasure trove of natural beauty. With your own boat, you can discover hidden gems inaccessible by land, snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with life, and witness breath-taking sunsets from the best seat in the house – your own deck.

🛠️ Engineer’s Note: “Winter storage is essential—don’t skip it!” “Winterise your boat properly or pay the price in the spring.”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We’ll help you secure a berth and plan your year-round storage options in the Brighton Marina and beyond. Coastal marinas in the UK can have long waiting lists—get on them early.

🧭 10. How Do I Know If a Boat is Right for Me?

Start with your goals: day trips, fishing, weekend cruising, or watersports?

🔍 Marine Surveyor’s Advice: “Never skip a professional inspection. Don’t just look at cosmetics.”

🚨 Skipper’s Suggestion: “Try before you buy. You won’t know until you’re at the helm.”

🛠️ Engineer’s Note: “Boats are emotional buys, but you need a rational checklist. Think: fit, purpose, feel, history, can I picture us using this every weekend?”

✅ Brighton Boat Sales Tip: We offer sea trials on select boats and give honest advice—no pressure, just straight answers.

🧭 Ready to Find Your Ideal Motor Boat?

At Brighton Boat Sales, we specialise in guiding first-time and family buyers through every step—from browsing to ownership. Whether you’re dreaming of summer days on the Solent or exploring Sussex’s coastal gems, we’re here to make boat ownership simple, safe, and exciting.

📍 What You Get with Brighton Boat Sales:

✅ Friendly, expert advice from locals
✅ Curated selection of new & pre-owned motor boats
✅ Sea trials, full documentation, and after-sales support
✅ Guidance on mooring, training, and maintenance

🛥️ Let’s Get You On The Water

Let’s get you out on the water—safely, confidently, and with the right boat for you.

📞 Call us today on 07867 303737