As our class is now so mainstream, we are seeing some people selling their boats that are being targeted by scammers. It is the responsibility of each person selling their boat to ensure that they are happy with the buyer and the method of payment.

Given the specialist nature of our boats, we suggest asking a few simple questions such as what they currently sail and what club they are from – you will soon weed out the scammers!

With regards to payment, again it’s up to you what you will accept. It is often safer to only accept cash (in banking hours so you can bank it whilst the buyer is there to check it’s not forged) or an electronic transfer that your bank has verified is cleared and can’t be reversed. We would not recommend accepting a cheque or a bankers draft. Of course, if you are selling to a friend from your local club, you may be a bit more flexible.

It is sad that we have to be of suspicious of potential buyers, but if you explain your reasons, it is most likely that a genuine buyer will understand.

BOTTOM LINE … if the buyer is not known to you, then beware. Make sure you are happy with the payment method before you allow someone to drive off with your boat.

The MUSTO Skiff Class Association (MSCA) accepts no responsibility for the quality of buyers who may respond to your adverts on this website.

These pages may help with more information and advice on potential scammers and known scams in the boat sales market:

http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=36576

https://www.insuremyworld.co.uk/articleboatbuying-selling-scams

https://www.theyachtmarket.com/en/articles/buying-and-selling-boats/selling_your_boat_-_avoiding_fraud/

https://uk.boats.com/boat-sellers-guide/online-fraud-prevention-aware-common-internet-scams/

https://www.boatus.com/magazine/2014/june/boat-buying-and-selling-scams.asp